Combat Ready

by David Wolstenholm

Combat Ready was written by and for veterans and active-duty personnel. It takes you on the journey from beginning to end of the military life paralleled by the life of a Christian. Personal and combat stories are interwoven into the book to bring it to life. Unfortunately, some people have gone through live-action combat. But few people know that everyone is in the middle of the largest war ever fought. There is a battle being waged between good and evil. Combat Ready will show you how to be properly equipped for this battle, to come out on top. Combat Ready shows how you are uniquely qualified to be a soldier for Christ.

Genres: Military Fiction, Christian

136 pages, Paperback

First published October 24, 2012

About the author

David is currently living in Redding, CA and working as an associate pastor. He has worked as a youth pastor and associate pastor and church elder in the past. Combat Ready is his debut work. He spent 4 years in the Marine Corps from 1998-2002. He is married to Lolita for nine years now. they have no children but have two dogs. Most importantly, they have been transformed by the power of God's amazing grace.

Reviews

[Batpunch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Based on David Wolstenholm own life experiences as a member of the United States Marine Corp, this book reaches out to all Military people who are seeking spirituality in their lives.While specifically tailored to serviceman, this book can be grasped by all.

Wolstenholm's book takes the viewpoint of the scripture Ephesians 6 :12-13

He draws attention to the parallels of trying to be a solider for the government and training to be a solider of Jesus Christ. I personally liked how Wolstenholm repeatedly marks the difference between making the daily effort to serve Christ and his Father Yaweh( Jah, Jehovah etc) by everything you do and just saying you are a Christian. All your actions are being noted, but this is not to intimidate or spread fear but to refine us as noted in Isaiah 1:25. God `refines' what he wants to use( us to preach and reach others with the hope of the Kingdom). David also brings to mind that there are Christians who give other Christians a bad name, such as ones that are openly participating in God dishonoring behavior such as stealing or not displaying the fruitage of the spirit.( Galatians 5:22, 23.)

Wolstenholm also clears up any misconception regarding the speaking of tongues which I personally agree with 100%. Reference Scriptures are noted through the work and the author encourages the reader to look up any scriptures he or she reads or hears in a discourse or sermon. While Wolstenholm is a pastor at the Seventh Day Adventist Church he doesn't push his particular religion on you. For readers who enjoy Frank E. Peretti or just reading other view points on the bible Wolstenholm delivers a unique reading experience that is well researched.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is written so well which creates the images in mind of an active battlefield. Though this is not a religious book at all, David has taken care to mix the incidents in this book with Christianity. The interconnection between Christianity and military life is fantastically pointed out in this. However I remarkably noticed that the author has maintained his own unique style of writing throughout the book. For me, it was a great, lovely read and I couldn't put it down till the end.

[Glen · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a veteran I enjoyed this book. The military illustrations made me feel at home when reading them. Points were typically well made. My only issue is following some of the theological statements. After contacting the author via Twitter (he is @PassaDave) I found it was because of denominational differences. That being said, it would have been much easier to read if the theological statements were made more neutral when possible (when it is not essential to the point he is making). By no means am I asking him to avoid his personal beliefs, just make an effort to clarify them for the reader. Maybe even addressing in a foreword his theological background so the reader went into the book with that knowledge.

In summary, I would still recommend this book if you serve military members or veterans in your ministry. But I would not use it blindly. I recommend reading it first so you are able to address any theological differences you find.

[J.V. Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read! Searching in your faith? Believe in God? Having tough times in your life? If you’re looking for spiritual answers in your own life, then this a terrific and inspirational book for you!

Even though this book is mainly how the author found God through the military, I think the author’s journey finding God and his advice from personal experience will touch the hearts of many. His honest encounters with alcohol and drugs are indicative of the author’s humility, God’s love and mercy. I give this book a five star and have to say it’s a must read! It’s available through Westbow Press and other retailers.

[orphan girl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the book.. coming from a family that grew up in the marines I could relate to the book and will pass it along for them to read . Thanks so much!