Does God still play an active role in the world today? Readers are thrilled to discover that yes, he does, showing himself in countless miracles and unexplained events. In their signature style, trusted pastor Jim Garlow and writer Keith Wall tap into readers' fascination with miracles by gathering exciting, credible true stories of God's supernatural activities in the lives of everyday people. These stories will encourage and inspire, making this a great gift or impulse buy.
Jim Garlow is an American evangelical leader, author, and former Senior Pastor of Skyline Church in La Mesa, California. Known for his outspoken political activism and theological conservatism, Garlow has played a prominent role in efforts to influence public policy from the pulpit, particularly through his leadership in the "pulpit freedom" movement. He was instrumental in mobilizing religious support for California’s Proposition 8 and later served as chairman of Renewing American Leadership, a nonprofit founded by Newt Gingrich. A frequent commentator on social and political issues, Garlow advocates for a return to what he calls “authentically biblical” Christianity and has urged evangelicals to abandon the term “evangelical” altogether. He has controversially equated political disengagement among Christians with moral failures of the past and maintains that biblical values must guide political decisions. He has publicly supported Donald Trump and collaborated with figures like Glenn Beck, despite criticism over interfaith alliances. In addition to his activism, Garlow has authored numerous books, including the New York Times best-seller Cracking DaVinci’s Code. He holds advanced degrees from Drew University, Princeton Theological Seminary, and Asbury Theological Seminary, and has served as a professor at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. Following the death of his first wife, Carol, in 2013, Garlow married Rosemary Schindler in 2014. Together, they have a blended family of eight children and nine grandchildren.
I have no idea how to put into words how I felt when reading this book. I didn't finish it because after reading a few of the stories, I got so disgusted I just didn't want to continue.
The first story is about how the lady was protected by something divine while some others died in a plane mishap. If it was truly God protecting her, telling her to sit somewhere else, telling her to tighten her seat belt, why did he not protect the others as well? Because they weren't worthy? Because they weren't Christians?!
This whole book is implying that only Christians are worthy of miracles, only Christians are worthy of God's grace. What a load of crap!
God is not a Christian, and God loves everyone equally. Only in the Bible does God kill everyone who doesn't worship and fear him, or who doesn't believe in him. What an insecure, tyrannical God he is!
If the authors of this book were truly interested in talking about God's grace and the miracles he'd performed, they wouldn't have made it so Christian-centric. As it is, this book is nothing but a poorly disguised attempt at preaching.
I struggle with the concept of miracles. Or, at least, with the concept of direct divine intervention. Most of the arguments I’ve heard both for and against have felt like they go too far in their respective directions. To completely deny the existence of spiritual guidance, intervention, and warfare comes in conflict with the Bible. Yet, frequently the arguments for these things seem to take the other extreme path of attributing every small occurrence in our daily lives to them. This seems self aggrandizing to me at best. So my one line summary of my personal belief in miracles is that they did and do occur, that the “classification” of what is and isn’t a miracle lies outside to scope of human understanding, and that we tend to be too quick to use the word thus rending it somewhat mundane and trivial. Because this can be such a murky theological topic, I tend to do a lot of reading on the subject. Real Life Real Miracles turned out not only to be a truly unique book in its field, but also a riveting read. From the synopsis, I knew that the book was based on real life events that defied rational explanation. However, I expected the stories to be framed with expose and Biblical examples of miracles. Aside from a short prologue and epilogue, Real Life Real Miracles is a collection of individual stories that stand on their own. The authors never step in to make a point or to draw the reader’s attention to certain detail. You can almost hear a drawling voice saying, “The facts, ma’am. Just the facts.” And it really works. By presenting these stories unbiasedly, the authors have left readers free to draw their own conclusions. This is a powerful twist as it leaves the book free to appeal to many people who might have differing opinions on the subject. And I think that there is something about stories like these that really resonate with other Christians even apart from the subject of miracles. We tend to be living lives other people around us don’t get. I loved stories like the one about a seven year old boy whose brain tumor disappeared. His father accepted the miracle and was champing at the bit to move on with life while the doctors were running test and trying like crazy to find something else wrong with the boy, something that could explain away the unbelievable. What I walked away from this book with was a reaffirmation of what I already believe. That Christians can find in within themselves to accept the impossible because we believe in a God who doesn’t have human limitations and specializes in what we see as impossible. That whether or not you want to label such things as miracles, there is no doubt that the Holy Spirit does guide and shelter even in today’s world. That the Bible isn’t a closed book, but part of an ongoing saga we are participants in. While that’s what I took away from Real Life Real Miracles, it is the kind of book that can reach out to many on an individual level. So if you’re looking for something besides affirmation, don’t assume that’s all the book can offer. I would suggest that this book is probably best suited for highschool and up as some of the stories might be too intense for children. Otherwise, I could definitely see this book as part of family devotional. The stories are short and would provide excellent opportunities for discussion. Reblogged from my site: myrdan.com My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for sending me a review copy of Real Life Real Miracles, in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.
I have only one word for this book: Wow! Some of these stories blew me away. I found myself getting chills and my eyes filling with tears several times as I read this amazing book.
This is a compilation of thirty stories of about ten pages each, along with a chapter of a lot more shorter stories. The first one immediately grabbed me as it told the story of a woman on an airplane. She wasn't able to sit in her assigned seat and had just loosened her seat belt when she heard a voice behind her telling her to tighten it and that she was in for the ride of her life, but no one was there. She did, and within a minute there was a loud POW and the right side of the plane disappeared! You'll have to read the story to find out what happens to her and the rest of the passengers, but it was amazing. The miracles vary from lives being saved from some kind of physical trauma to being healed of various diseases to food showing up in the nick of time when someone didn't know where their next meal was coming from.
This is an incredibly encouraging book. If you question whether God gets involved in our daily lives, just read this and question no more. If you think that miracles only happen to special people, these stories show they can happen to anyone. Time after time, the recipients say they don't know why God chose them; they're just grateful He did! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
Maybe it's my fault for trying to read it all at once. It got monotonous about halfway through when something would happen to the author and then the miracle would happen. Perhaps reading one a day would have been a better option. Towards the end I started skipping stories that seemed too repetitious to one that was in the book prior.
If you are a firm believer in God and Miracles that HE can perform this is the book for you, however, as I am not a firm believer this may have also distracted from the main theme of the story.
I really enjoyed reading this book about true stories of real miracles that happen to different people around the world. Very inspiring and very helpful in instilling hope and faith to me. I would love to read more books like this one about real miracles that happen in real life. God is good, praise his holy name! Jesus is Lord!
Audiobook. Interesting to listen to all the different stories. I really enjoyed thinking about the difference between coincidence and miracle- or rather thinking is there really a difference? I also liked thinking about how a miracle to someone could mean nothing to someone else depending on their place in life and the path they are living. Just all around interesting.
These are individual stories about real miracles. My priest, Father Kris, told me he was part of the third story so I had to read this. If you do not believe in God, you will after reading this book. This book will make you think and maybe make you thank God for some of the miracles that have happened in your life.
Feeling very low in my personal life and came across this book, it was very comforting and inspirational for me. It made me feel that there was a higher power looking out for me and I was not alone. Reading of all these other folks' experiences touched me. Recommend reading it.
Short stories recounting miraculous events in individual lives. It is inspiring and encouraging to see God’s hand in these situations as a reminder and faith-builder.
Do you ever wonder about those little "coincidences" that happen in your life? Maybe you were caught in a traffic jam because you left the house late, only to find out later that you missed a major accident that could’ve involved you if you had left on time. Maybe you weren’t sure how you were going to pay the bills last month, only to receive a mysterious check in the mail for the exact amount you needed. Things like this happen to people every day. The question is, are they merely coincidences or are they perhaps something more, part of a greater design for your life?
In Real Life, Real Miracles: True Stories That Will Help You Believe, the answer to this question becomes painstakingly clear. Miracles do still happen today. Join Dr. Jim Garlow, "senior pastor of Skyline Church in San Diego", and "publishing veteran", Keith Wall as they share the accounts of thirty extraordinary things that happened to thirty ordinary people.
Synopsis...
Each true story in this book describes normal occurrences such as illnesses, financial troubles, or traffic accidents. As you read each story, however, amazing things begin to unfold—a man pronounced dead takes another breath, a woman finds the diamond she lost in a motorcycle wreck, the name of God (YHWH) gives hope when all seems lost. The deeper into this book you delve, the stronger your faith and belief will become that good old-fashioned miracles are still being performed today, and the only One who deserves the glory is our great and awesome Creator.
Why I liked it...
I always enjoy hearing stories about how miracles have strengthened a person’s faith in God. I love how the outcome of certain circumstances cause you to look nowhere but up. There are just some things that can only be explained by believing that God’s hand was there. Real Life, Real Miracles reminded me of just how involved God is in the lives of the children He loves.
What I didn’t like...
Some of the retellings were a little lengthy and dry. I feel the stories would’ve been more powerful if they had been told from a first person perspective.
Recommendation...
I would recommend this book to others who enjoy reading about the power of God and the difference it has made in the lives of others. If you need a reminder of just how amazing God is, if you need a little extra dose of faith, or if you’re just looking for an easy, relaxing read, this book is for you.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House Publishers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are wholly and completely my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to witness it, does it still make a sound? When a miracle happens in the world and the press doesn't report it, is it still factual?
In many parts of the Western world and especially in many churches in the West, modern miracles are often ignored and overlooked. This is done for a variety of reasons. Naturalism is a popular philosophy in Western academia and culture so miracles aren't looked upon favorably to say the least. Many churches in the West teach that miracles and the gifts of the Spirit passed away. They say that because we have the Bible now there is no need for them. Others in the church also believe that any miracle or supernatural activity is demonic or a "counterfeit" to true miracles. Still others believe miracles only happen at key times in history.
This book gives a ton of examples that challenge all of those viewpoints. Miracles are happening all over the place on a regular basis! We just don't hear about them much. I suspect this lack of communication is done deliberately, lest people's cherish views are shown to be incorrect.
Regardless, James Garlow has put together a wonderful book that gives names, times, locations and details of many recent and modern miracles done in the name of Christ or by those praying to the Christian God. What I especially enjoyed about this book is that there were such a variety of accounts. There were many healing miracles but he also included some signs and wonders and unique miracles not often reported or shared.
If you doubt miracles take place today or that God quit moving supernaturally, this book may change your perspective and encourage your faith.
These real-life, credible stories of miraculous experiences, gathered by the authors of Miracles Are for Real, reveal that God is still very active in the world. Each gripping story is sure to encourage and inspire, offering hope and a sense of wonder.
- When Steve rolled his car, he should have been killed. Why didn't he die that day? - Caleb and Penny moved to a poor part of town to serve their community. But when one group of neighbors makes and sells drugs, will God's angels protect them? - Bob's MS was getting progressively worse. Could God heal such a debilitating disease?
Whether you've experienced God's miracles or aren't sure if you believe in them, explore fascinating true stories like these and many more. You'll be in awe of God's power as you get a glimpse of how he personally cares for each of his children--including you. (less) Paperback, 261 pages Published November 1st 2012 by Bethany House Publishers ISBN 0764210742 (ISBN13: 9780764210747) edition language English url http://www.bethanyhouse.com/Book.asp?...
Uplifting and inspiring stories that remind us miracles do happen, even when we may doubt their existence, there exists in each of us an inner voice. Whether we listen for it or not is entirely up to us. I can say with certainty that this novel has reinforced in me, that God does exist and angels do watch over us. An excellent collection of short stories.
I read Real Life, Real Miracles, in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was written by James L. Garlow and Keith Wall. The book provides stories from real people, which also shows God's goodness and grace. The book is very inspirational. Steve may have died in a car accident, but he did not. The book also discussed Shari. Shari was boarding a plane from Australia and someone had taken her seat. Since the plane was already ready to depart, the attendant told her to sit in any empty seat. Shari was in a plane crash. She was about to take some pills to sleep, but a quiet voice told her not to and to keep her wits on alert. The story had a beautiful ending.
The book also discusses cancer, drugs, diamonds, and MS. I did not get a chance to finish the book, but I am definitely planning to buy a paperback book in the future.
The prologue set the tone of the book and could applied to anyone-you got laid off and can not pay your bills; You been praying and can't seem to get ahead. One day, you walk to the mailbox, receive a letter from an old friend, and she sent a check. (reminds me of my mother. always looking for a mysterious check in the mail. The problem is--miracles occur when least expected. ) God still provides--even in our darkest hour, even when we feel despair, even when no one else is there. God will always be around.
This book is not just a "feel good" book with stories to make you smile, it is full of TRUE life stories about how God works in people's lives to bring glory to Him.
There was one story that should pique anyone's interest about life and God's power to heal. In this story, the lady's name is Noelle and she was living out a generational curse of deafness that had started generations earlier. As soon as she turned 20 years old, she started losing her hearing, and this was quite an adjustment for someone who loved music! At the age of 50, God changed all of that. She went to a song service expecting great things, and God came through in a big way -- she could hear again!!
This reminds me of the story in the Bible of the 10 lepers who were healed and the ONE that had to go and tell EVERYONE what God had done for him.
This book will bring you peace and happiness and help you to remember that when God moves in your life, YOU WILL KNOW IT. It will also inspire you to want Him to move in your life and to remember to ask Him to and to expect great results! That is how I felt when I read this book. :)
*I received a copy of this book free from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.*
This book contains thirty stories, in addition to shorter more miraculous moments, giving true life accounts of miracles in our everyday lives. A unique giftable and keeper book will find it's way to occupy a special place in a readers library. The reader will quickly choose favorite stories as I did and find that perhaps these can be read at a later time again, for a moment when the stories will again promise hope and inspiration.
With the author's ability to draw the reader into these amazing and heartfelt captivating stories you will find yourself being transported into others lives as the book could leave the reader with a what if scenario. I found myself quickly turning the pages as the book can be read alittle at a time or in a few sittings. This book offers so much as every one is different. After reading the many accounts of real life miracles I was truly inspired and challenged in my faith. The books audience, I feel, can be enjoyed by male or female readers. I was highly entertained and would recommend this book to others. I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers for my review.
This book is a compilation of true stories from real people. Each one unique in its own way and unique in how God came through for each person and family.
Real Life-Real Miracles has brought my faith to new heights. As I read through each of these absolutely amazing testimonies from people just like us, I felt an assurance that God is always there with us even through the hardest of times. As one who is still waiting for healing, I have a greater understanding of what it means to stand strong and continue to believe that it is coming.
I don't want to give away the stories in this book. Let me just say that they are incredible, and it is unmistakably obvious that God is the author and protector of our lives. No matter how hard we try to solve our problems, no matter what report the doctors have given, God will have His way, if only we will trust Him.
I highly recommend this book. If you are like me or know someone how may need an extra boost of faith, get this book. See God in action in the lives of others and expect to see Him in action in your own lives as well!
**Thank you Bethany House Publishers for the free book in exchange for my honest review.**
Looking for some inspirational stories? This book has many that will amaze you and all point you to the Lord of miracles. I gave this book 5/5 stars. I thought the compilation of stories was varied enough that any one reading this book will find a story that will touch them in some way. You will be able to relate to some of the stories as well. You may also realize that you have experienced some of these same miracles just in your own way. I would recommend this book for anyone looking for encouragement or who enjoys reading about special incidents in others lives.
I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
…true stories that will help you believe…(from the front cover byline)
“Each gripping story is sure to encourage and inspire, offering hope and a sense of wonder.” (from the back cover)
I did find the stories to be credible, encouraging and inspiring. However, I don’t believe you can make a promise that everyone will find them so. Stories by themselves will never make anyone believe anything. It reminds me of the biblical story of Lazarus where he asks God to send someone to warn his brothers about hell and the Bible says they would not believe even if someone comes back from the dead. Isn’t that true? Either you are disposed to believe or you are not.
I received a free advanced copy of "Real Life, Real Miracles" from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. I have yet to finish this book but it is an easy read, similar to the "Chicken Soup" series. I cannot say enough how uplifting the stories are and I often find myself in awe of God amazing works in our lives. God is truly omnipresent and He cares for us and loves us more than we can understand! This book made me realize that miracles are not a thing of the past, they happen to normal people every day! I have been praying for a medical healing for a family member for a long time and this book has given me hope and increased faith that if it is God's will, than it will happen in His perfect timing!
I enjoyed the true healings Jesus provided to the believers, whether it was putting food on the table, to bringing one back to life, healing different ones from cancer or serious accidents, the scripture Jeremiah 32:27 which states, "Behold, I am the LORD, thy God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?" Is there any thing too hard for God? Nothing is too hard for God! I thank God for blood and I loved the miraculous testimonies I was allowed to read. God is an Awesome God. Without faith it is impossible to please Him. Believing is seeing not seeing is believing. Thank you for sharing. God bless!
We listened to this book during our trip to Illinois for Christmas, and it was an interesting read, but probably more suited to have sitting on a nightstand to read an account or two every few days, rather than read the whole thing in a couple of sittings. While it seems to be written from a more charismatic perspective than my faith is, I appreciated the admonishment to believe, really believe, that God can and does still perform miracles today. I know that at times I both take that for granted and do not fervently pray with the unwavering faith that prayer can "move mountains".
I have often thought why it is that miracles happened in the Bible but not so much today. "Real Life Real Miracles" was encouraging to me because it demonstrated that God is working miracles today. This book presented story after story about real people who experienced God's Hand in their lives. Some of the stories seemed a bit fantastic and I did wonder if the authors had any way of documenting the story beyond the retelling of it. Most often, however, I had no difficulty believing the experiences. I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for review.
What a fantastic book with over 30 real life, modern day miracles. I always enjoy reading uplifting stories like this. It will definitively change your perspective in whether or not God is at work in our lives. I have read some of the stories and will continue to read them to uplift me when I feel discourage. The book contains over 30 stories that will open your eyes to the fact that God is still performing miracles to this day. A great read for all!
Depressed? Down in the Dumps? Want to be uplifted? Think that God does not intervene in our lives today? Read this book and all negative thinking will be eliminated from your mind. You will be inspired, uplifted and encouraged when you read countless stories of how God intervened and changed people's lives.
Great book with many stories about God working in people's lifes. He is alive today! How can one not believe after reading how people were, (and are) being miraclously healed. This book has certainly increased my faith in God for healing. I recommend this book to all people believers or not. Many short stories so one can read several in a short period of time.