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Majestic and Wild: True Stories Of Faith And Adventure In The Great Outdoors
Church can be a great place to learn spiritual lessons, but sometimes you just have to get up and get outside to experience the grandeur of God. In Majestic and Wild , pastor, writer, and avid outdoorsman Murray Pura weaves his real-life adventures with spiritual inspiration and life lessons, capturing the majestic and wild creation that God has set before us all. From animal encounters to wildfires to raging rapids to Daniel Boone hunts and buffalo stampedes, the stories range from dramatic and suspenseful to light-hearted and whimsical. Each story is woven with spiritual lessons not easily learned from sitting in a pew.
A great gift for wives to give to their husbands and kids to give to their dads, Majestic and Wild will entertain and inspire anyone with a sense of adventure and a love for the great outdoors.
A great gift for wives to give to their husbands and kids to give to their dads, Majestic and Wild will entertain and inspire anyone with a sense of adventure and a love for the great outdoors.
240 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2013
9 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
Murray Pura
148 books766 followersreader, writer, author, free thinker
books published in 2023
KINGFISHER CROSS
NEVENA IN LOVE
CLARA RAVEN
UNDER THE STONES
available on Amazon, B&N, Indigo, etc.
listed for Best Series of the Year Award 2023
Hemingway Award 2022 Seattle
Word Guild Award 2022, 2012 Toronto
books published in 2023
KINGFISHER CROSS
NEVENA IN LOVE
CLARA RAVEN
UNDER THE STONES
available on Amazon, B&N, Indigo, etc.
listed for Best Series of the Year Award 2023
Hemingway Award 2022 Seattle
Word Guild Award 2022, 2012 Toronto
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 23, 2016
I honestly didn't think I would like this book as much as I did. I do love being out in a country setting, but I have never been a big fan of actually going out and exploring the wilderness. That is more of something my husband likes to do. I really enjoyed each and every one of the daily devotionals in this book and never really wanted to stop at just one; so, I read it more like a collection of short stories. This book definitely made me look forward to the house my husband and I want to have someday set right in the middle of the woods!
April 20, 2023
The author does a fine job of giving readers high adventure stories, which are true, and injecting a little religion/reverence into it all. He lives an unusual life in the Canadian Rockies and has traveled and seen much in his life. The stories are true adventures, many dangerous, and also part of every day life sometimes where he lives. There are a number of animals in the stories, along with his 2 dogs, and his family. I can't think of another book like this one!
His writing touches on what is already known of humans, that we find wilderness and woods and peaceful places away from cities healing. It's something I have said and felt for years, even just commuting from the city back to the country for some years myself. It changes a person's tension level and demeanor to get away from the hustle/bustle. Spending time in nature is good for most of us and we can do it with less danger than this author has done. He is better equipped to handle situations than most of us are.
His writing touches on what is already known of humans, that we find wilderness and woods and peaceful places away from cities healing. It's something I have said and felt for years, even just commuting from the city back to the country for some years myself. It changes a person's tension level and demeanor to get away from the hustle/bustle. Spending time in nature is good for most of us and we can do it with less danger than this author has done. He is better equipped to handle situations than most of us are.
July 13, 2013
I have to admit, I’m really not one for camping or roughing it. I have a deathly fear of spiders and can easily pack two suitcases just to stay somewhere overnight. Nevertheless, Murray Pura’s book ‘Wild and Majestic’ is calling me to the wilds of the Master Craftsman! Not only does Murray himself experience the most heart-pounding and uplifting encounters with both nature and wildlife alike, but he takes you on that same journey with him, providing you with a teasing taste of the breathtaking and invigorating wilderness of the earth.
Amongst the pages you’ll ride the rapids, help to herd cattle, come face to face with cougars and grizzlies, and experience a thundering buffalo stampede headed right for you. You’ll frequently find yourself swiftly flicking the pages or have your heart in your mouth, as you encounter death, danger, and surprises throughout these adventures of the great outdoors. Murray states that in the wilderness, ‘there is always the beauty and always the beast’. He presents a panorama of both in this book.
The superbly written accounts within will immerse you into the heart of God as you experience His power and majesty in His stunning Creation. Throughout these pages, the author of this book and the Author of life reveal invaluable lessons that can be gleaned from the wilderness and life outside of our four walls. In the chapter ‘The Mountain Lion and the Winchester 94’, we see Murray Pura mowing his lawn with a wild cougar about, and read in Proverbs how the righteous one can be as bold as a lion. Each chapter connects you to the Creator with Murray’s thrilling and challenging adventures, including stirring spiritual revelations from God’s glorious handiwork that speak of life, mercy, and promise.
Whether you’re an adventurer or not, I guarantee you’ll enjoy this book! The eloquent and illustrative style of prose we’re treated with throughout was as equally impressive as the awe-inspiring adventures, bringing the wilderness alive for me in ways that gave my imagination flight.
Sure to bring laughter to your soul, are also a couple of light-hearted chapters that had me laughing out loud. This book would make a fabulous gift for the outdoors person, but as discovered in my case, anyone can relish reading these vivid adventures!
Amongst the pages you’ll ride the rapids, help to herd cattle, come face to face with cougars and grizzlies, and experience a thundering buffalo stampede headed right for you. You’ll frequently find yourself swiftly flicking the pages or have your heart in your mouth, as you encounter death, danger, and surprises throughout these adventures of the great outdoors. Murray states that in the wilderness, ‘there is always the beauty and always the beast’. He presents a panorama of both in this book.
The superbly written accounts within will immerse you into the heart of God as you experience His power and majesty in His stunning Creation. Throughout these pages, the author of this book and the Author of life reveal invaluable lessons that can be gleaned from the wilderness and life outside of our four walls. In the chapter ‘The Mountain Lion and the Winchester 94’, we see Murray Pura mowing his lawn with a wild cougar about, and read in Proverbs how the righteous one can be as bold as a lion. Each chapter connects you to the Creator with Murray’s thrilling and challenging adventures, including stirring spiritual revelations from God’s glorious handiwork that speak of life, mercy, and promise.
Whether you’re an adventurer or not, I guarantee you’ll enjoy this book! The eloquent and illustrative style of prose we’re treated with throughout was as equally impressive as the awe-inspiring adventures, bringing the wilderness alive for me in ways that gave my imagination flight.
Sure to bring laughter to your soul, are also a couple of light-hearted chapters that had me laughing out loud. This book would make a fabulous gift for the outdoors person, but as discovered in my case, anyone can relish reading these vivid adventures!
August 14, 2016
Majestic and Wild: by Canadian author, Murray Pura
published by Baker Books
released April 15.13
Inspiring adventures in the wilds of Canada, Canadian author, Murray Pura, provides greater glimpses into the majesty and beauty of our country and Creator.
From camping tales to heroics, we journey outback trails and wilderness with Pura. Sometimes solitary, sometimes in company with his family or wild menagerie. But always with increased insights into the ways of nature and of God.
Pura's writings vividly portray roaring mountain rivers to the dance of the Aurora Borealis; scents of the pine to freshly falling rainshowers.
Captivating stories of forest fires consuming vast areas of forest and relational loneliness of isolation in the midst of overwhelming beauty.
Spiritual insights are offered with gentleness; woven naturally into the fabric of the adventure. Some quotes of note-
"The wild is one of the best regions to rediscover your faith."
"A wild place in the wet is altogether different. There is a hush, the birds are not calling... everything is waiting for the rain to finish its work..."
"The woods during a long rain are a gift from God, custom made for deep thought... for worship of God that is personal and profound..."
"..rainfall is seen as a nuisance or inconvenience.. when, in fact, its beauty can offer us rare experiences if only we enter into it. Unfortunately, we withdraw from many of life's trials and challenges which could be transforming if properly embraced."
"we need to pray for a fearless heart that retreats from nothing but faces everything"
Pura adds nature quotes from various others such as Luther, Browning and Muir and relevant writings that illustrate the scriptures referenced in each chapter.
Highly recommended for all who enjoy adventure and well suited for gift giving such as Father's Day or birthdays.
Thank you, Murray, for sharing these enlightening perspectives on your abundant spiritual journeys.
Gratefully received from Baker Books for reading and review without obligation.
1st book read for Day 1 in the Bout of Books Read a Thon May 13 thru 19th
published by Baker Books
released April 15.13
Inspiring adventures in the wilds of Canada, Canadian author, Murray Pura, provides greater glimpses into the majesty and beauty of our country and Creator.
From camping tales to heroics, we journey outback trails and wilderness with Pura. Sometimes solitary, sometimes in company with his family or wild menagerie. But always with increased insights into the ways of nature and of God.
Pura's writings vividly portray roaring mountain rivers to the dance of the Aurora Borealis; scents of the pine to freshly falling rainshowers.
Captivating stories of forest fires consuming vast areas of forest and relational loneliness of isolation in the midst of overwhelming beauty.
Spiritual insights are offered with gentleness; woven naturally into the fabric of the adventure. Some quotes of note-
"The wild is one of the best regions to rediscover your faith."
"A wild place in the wet is altogether different. There is a hush, the birds are not calling... everything is waiting for the rain to finish its work..."
"The woods during a long rain are a gift from God, custom made for deep thought... for worship of God that is personal and profound..."
"..rainfall is seen as a nuisance or inconvenience.. when, in fact, its beauty can offer us rare experiences if only we enter into it. Unfortunately, we withdraw from many of life's trials and challenges which could be transforming if properly embraced."
"we need to pray for a fearless heart that retreats from nothing but faces everything"
Pura adds nature quotes from various others such as Luther, Browning and Muir and relevant writings that illustrate the scriptures referenced in each chapter.
Highly recommended for all who enjoy adventure and well suited for gift giving such as Father's Day or birthdays.
Thank you, Murray, for sharing these enlightening perspectives on your abundant spiritual journeys.
Gratefully received from Baker Books for reading and review without obligation.
1st book read for Day 1 in the Bout of Books Read a Thon May 13 thru 19th
April 15, 2013
Majestic and Wild is a great adventurous experience for 31 days. I must admit I could not wait that long to read all those great stories. The author drew me in from the first story and I didn’t want to stop reading. For each day the author is offering one or two bible verses and is sharing one of his experiences in the wild—adventures in the forest or field, on the river, or encounters with wild animals. These experiences have taught him rich spiritual lessons—lessons that will also teach the reader more about God and His creation.
The vivid descriptions will make you feel like you are watching over the author’s shoulder. It will give you the feeling you are visiting the wild and experiencing what the author saw. It takes a talented writer to make you feel like you are living the adventures in a book—to make you see them in your mind’s eye. Murray Pura is that writer who is blessed with this special gift of art in writing. His writing is like a cool stream or a gentle wind—so refreshing.
This book awakened many emotions—happiness to see God’s glory, sadness to see the wickedness of men, it brought a smile to my face to read some humorous comments between the lines, and I have also wiped away a tear at some emotional parts. Above all this book left me in awe of God’s glorious creation.
This book is for men and women who enjoy the outdoors. Get your copy of Majestic and Wild and go on an unforgettable adventure. While reading you will learn some valuable and biblical lessons…and you will be blessed!
*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley*
The vivid descriptions will make you feel like you are watching over the author’s shoulder. It will give you the feeling you are visiting the wild and experiencing what the author saw. It takes a talented writer to make you feel like you are living the adventures in a book—to make you see them in your mind’s eye. Murray Pura is that writer who is blessed with this special gift of art in writing. His writing is like a cool stream or a gentle wind—so refreshing.
This book awakened many emotions—happiness to see God’s glory, sadness to see the wickedness of men, it brought a smile to my face to read some humorous comments between the lines, and I have also wiped away a tear at some emotional parts. Above all this book left me in awe of God’s glorious creation.
This book is for men and women who enjoy the outdoors. Get your copy of Majestic and Wild and go on an unforgettable adventure. While reading you will learn some valuable and biblical lessons…and you will be blessed!
*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley*
July 16, 2013
Murray Pura has written this book based on some of the most beautiful country that is accessible to us. When you are so close to nature you become a witness to the amazing world God gave us and are able to commune with God easier as you seem to be so much closer to Him. Murray was able to describe in such great detail of how untouched yet reachable, exciting and beautiful nature is. God is also allowing us the freedom to live this life having us experience Him and what He has put here for us.
I enjoyed this book immensely and would love to read all of Murray's Books. I could not put this book down and highly recommend this book. The men would appreciate this book and would be able to relate to this book whether hunters or not. I know my husband will now that I have finished it.
I enjoyed this book immensely and would love to read all of Murray's Books. I could not put this book down and highly recommend this book. The men would appreciate this book and would be able to relate to this book whether hunters or not. I know my husband will now that I have finished it.
August 1, 2013
Right from the beginning Murray's stories drew me in and I didn't want to put the book down. Murray shared stories of the wilderness in Canada, Montana and other places. He talked of nature with himself, his wife, children, 2 dogs and God. I really enjoyed reading the book and if you are a nature lover and love being in the wilderness, you must read this book. I don't like camping or hiking but I enjoy sitting outside my house in the country watching the wildlife in my yard and looking up at the stars at night. Reading this book made me feel closer to nature and God. I really recommend you read this book. Murray Pura is a great writer.
June 7, 2013
One guy experienced all of this? A collection of true short stories of adventure in the North American wilderness. Who knew that a bull moose was so terrifying?
September 20, 2017
This book really surprised me. I purchased it because the name was familiar (Murray was an intern at a church I attended decades ago in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia). The stories are an entertaining read, the insights and reflections are good, well written, enjoyable content, vividly executed. I will be recommending this to a few people at my church.
January 13, 2018
This is one of the best books I have ever read. I absolutely love it. Murray's encounters with animals are crazy and awesome. I love how he uses scriptures. I recommend this book to anyone who loves nature and animals.
February 15, 2020
A fantastic read! This was a gift to me—it came from a friend, and, it has revived my spirit & made me long for moments & adventures like the ones chronicled here. The mountains are calling . . .
June 27, 2025
I have never been more inspired to go camping in my life.
August 25, 2015
Majestic and Wild: True Stories of Faith and Adventure in the Great Outdoors
BY
Murray Pura***** e-book
I wasn't sure if I would enjoy Majestic and Wild, or how this devotional would fit in with the stories, but after reading only a few pages I was caught up in the book and the lessons. This book is filled with God's “majestic and wild” and Murray's encounter with the wild animals that live in Canada and as well as other places. He takes us on an adventure that is at times life-threatening but amazing. The beauty of these wild places are described in such a way that I can picture them in my mind. Not sure I would want to stand nose-to-nose with a bear, but would love to see this wild and wonderful place.
Not only does he share the adventures he, his family and dogs live everyday, but lessons in listening to God and His plans for our lives. He shares the joy of God's creation, how mankind can be wicked-not seeing the beauty surrounding them, the way men/women come together when help is needed, as well as humor woven throughout the book. The lessons he has gleaned through his encounters are gently shared, reminding us that God does have a plan and purpose for each of us, we just need to listen and heed His voice and how our relationship with God impacts those around us. I highly recommend this book.
~~I received an e-book copy of this book for my review~~
BY
Murray Pura***** e-book
I wasn't sure if I would enjoy Majestic and Wild, or how this devotional would fit in with the stories, but after reading only a few pages I was caught up in the book and the lessons. This book is filled with God's “majestic and wild” and Murray's encounter with the wild animals that live in Canada and as well as other places. He takes us on an adventure that is at times life-threatening but amazing. The beauty of these wild places are described in such a way that I can picture them in my mind. Not sure I would want to stand nose-to-nose with a bear, but would love to see this wild and wonderful place.
Not only does he share the adventures he, his family and dogs live everyday, but lessons in listening to God and His plans for our lives. He shares the joy of God's creation, how mankind can be wicked-not seeing the beauty surrounding them, the way men/women come together when help is needed, as well as humor woven throughout the book. The lessons he has gleaned through his encounters are gently shared, reminding us that God does have a plan and purpose for each of us, we just need to listen and heed His voice and how our relationship with God impacts those around us. I highly recommend this book.
~~I received an e-book copy of this book for my review~~
April 6, 2014
A collection of short devotional thoughts on the great outdoors.
Not horrible for a free book. Sometimes the theology was a little fluffy, and the proof texts at the beginning of each chapter were often ridiculous (i.e. lifting verses from their contexts just because they may mention a deer or bear or river..etc and that is what the chapter is about). Unfortunately the Gospel was rarely to be seen.
The stories themselves were very well written and made me thankful for the beauty and wildness of God's creation. Every once in a while a great quote was to be found as well...
"Unfortunately, we withdraw from many of life's trials and challenges which could be transforming if properly embraced."
"We have never risked losing the normalcy of our daily existence to gain the astonishing experience of having to see God come through or die. So we have never seen what those who have risked it all on God have seen because we have made sure we have never needed God as much as they have."
Not horrible for a free book. Sometimes the theology was a little fluffy, and the proof texts at the beginning of each chapter were often ridiculous (i.e. lifting verses from their contexts just because they may mention a deer or bear or river..etc and that is what the chapter is about). Unfortunately the Gospel was rarely to be seen.
The stories themselves were very well written and made me thankful for the beauty and wildness of God's creation. Every once in a while a great quote was to be found as well...
"Unfortunately, we withdraw from many of life's trials and challenges which could be transforming if properly embraced."
"We have never risked losing the normalcy of our daily existence to gain the astonishing experience of having to see God come through or die. So we have never seen what those who have risked it all on God have seen because we have made sure we have never needed God as much as they have."
November 29, 2013
I received this book free through Goodreads First Reads.
I love this book, Murray Pura has had some amazing adventures and I really enjoyed reading about them and how God spoke to him through creation. The book has lots of short chapters so you could read one each day as a devotion, there are enough for a month. I read the book straight through over a few days, and I found it truly did give me something to think about during the day. It caused me to be more thankful to God for the beauty of nature around me, and seek God to speak to me through it.
I love this book, Murray Pura has had some amazing adventures and I really enjoyed reading about them and how God spoke to him through creation. The book has lots of short chapters so you could read one each day as a devotion, there are enough for a month. I read the book straight through over a few days, and I found it truly did give me something to think about during the day. It caused me to be more thankful to God for the beauty of nature around me, and seek God to speak to me through it.
February 27, 2014
I added this to my "will re-read several times throughout my lifetime stack," which is not an altogether very long list since my reading list in general is quite extensive. Well written. Captivating. Thought provoking. Calmingly spiritual.
For those scrutinizing the length of time I took to read this book the first time through, I savored every moment of reading "Majestic and Wild." Each story within its covers deserves its own dedicated moments of reflection and introspection, so readings often occurred before/during times I knew I could devote to solitude and ponderings.
For those scrutinizing the length of time I took to read this book the first time through, I savored every moment of reading "Majestic and Wild." Each story within its covers deserves its own dedicated moments of reflection and introspection, so readings often occurred before/during times I knew I could devote to solitude and ponderings.
January 25, 2014
Majestic and Wild reminds me so much of some of the experiences I have had in God's great outdoors! Murray Pura makes you feel like you are right there with him as he relates how he felt when he was able to witness some incredible moments that could have only been ordained by our great creator!
I have read a lot of books written on adventures in the wilderness but none as heart warming as Majestic and Wild.
I have read a lot of books written on adventures in the wilderness but none as heart warming as Majestic and Wild.
March 5, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. It reminded me of John Eldridge except that here the author tells his own tales rather than relating tales from epic movies and the like. It's hard to believe sometimes that this one guy experienced so much, but then he has been in the wilderness a lot. Very interesting reading.
October 22, 2014
Great read. Like how each chapter is seperate adventure with a touch of wisdom of how our creator relays to the beauty of the wild.
July 14, 2016
Uplifting. Made me think. I already love nature, but this book reminded me where all this beauty came from.
July 12, 2016
This is a nice devotional type book that correlates God's word with His majestic wilderness.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews