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21 Seconds to Change Your World: Finding God's Healing and Abundance Through Prayer
A Powerful Call to Restore Your Soul Through Prayer
When an excruciating bout of depression led Dr. Mark Rutland to more deeply explore prayer, he came to understand its miraculous power for soul restoration. Prayer is a declaration of our Father's compassion
toward us, a confession of our own inadequacy, and a reminder that he meets our daily needs.
As it turns out, these are the elements of prayer Jesus taught his disciples. Praying and meditating on the Lord's Prayer changed Dr. Rutland's life, and since then he has used it to restore others' souls as well.
Filled with moving stories and powerful insights, this book will help you discover the truth about God's love and power, and this truth will bless and heal you. In the end, it's not just about saying the Lord's Prayer--it's about getting to know the Lord of the prayer.
When an excruciating bout of depression led Dr. Mark Rutland to more deeply explore prayer, he came to understand its miraculous power for soul restoration. Prayer is a declaration of our Father's compassion
toward us, a confession of our own inadequacy, and a reminder that he meets our daily needs.
As it turns out, these are the elements of prayer Jesus taught his disciples. Praying and meditating on the Lord's Prayer changed Dr. Rutland's life, and since then he has used it to restore others' souls as well.
Filled with moving stories and powerful insights, this book will help you discover the truth about God's love and power, and this truth will bless and heal you. In the end, it's not just about saying the Lord's Prayer--it's about getting to know the Lord of the prayer.
176 pages, Paperback
First published January 5, 2016
78 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 12, 2023
Loved this book. Talks about the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23 and how to apply it to our lives. Breaks it down line by line and word by word sometimes.
May 16, 2016
21 Seconds to Change Your World is an excellent book. Dr. Rutland explains the reasons for the effectiveness of praying thr Lord's Prayer and the 23rd Psalm for restoring the soul. Using great illustrations and analogies, Dr. Rutland examines the correlations between the two passages of Scripture and paints a beautiful picture of how they apply to our daily lives. I really enjoyed this book and found it very encouraging and applicable for all that I'm going through in this season of life.
January 25, 2016
Ranks right down there with 'The prayer of Jabez'.
December 5, 2023
This was fine. I liked learning “thy will be done on earth” is also translated “in earth” and can mean in the earth/dust that is me. The writing was poor. Rutland used rhetoric that is effective enough in a sermon (superlatives, underdeveloped examples, mixed and useless metaphors and imagery), but it’s trash in writing. A common issue with pastors who write books. Also, his tone felt condescending pretty often. If I got to edit this, it could be a succinct 10 pages that might actually change ur world 🙃😉
July 13, 2022
If your like me, you’ve probably neglected the Lord’s Prayer as something you already know. But how many of us actually pray it ? This is a simple yet really effective read. Rutland combines the study of the prayer with Psalm 23 and throughout encourages you in the power of simple prayer in general.
4/5 Stars
4/5 Stars
October 15, 2019
Fresh perspective on the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23. The Lord’s Prayer is the only specific prayer Jesus gave us and it’s all we need to keep a right attitude and posture toward God and our world. Thank you again, Dr. Rutland!
February 25, 2018
I couldn't put this down. It blew my mind.
September 22, 2020
There is nothing to lose in implementing these principles, and everything to gain.
October 20, 2018
After reading this book, I have found myself contemplating the Lord's prayer and the 23rd Psalm more often. I have caught myself meditating on and praying/quoting these texts when I lack the words to speak. It has been a great starting place for me in getting my mind and heart right with the Lord, and it has been the starting place for the Lord to speak to me. I do believe that both of these portions of scripture are very helpful and I have greatly enjoyed incorporating them into my life more than I have previously to reading this book. However, I believe Rutland overemphasizes the usage of these portions of scripture to the neglect of the rest of scripture and its usefulness in our prayer life. I appreciated much of the wisdom Rutland slips into his book however, this book lacked the depth and spiritual direction I prefer to see in a book of this nature.
p.9 "Prayer is about listening to His voice in the depths of your heart."
p.9 "The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the heart, mind, and soul of the one who prays."
p.28,29 "Thy name is holy. Thine is the kingdom. Thine is the power. Thine is the glory. All four are about Him, not us, not our needs, not our sins, and not our service. So much of what passes for praise today is saccharine emotionalism, filled with narcissistic self-absorption."
p.29 "The Lord's Prayer begins and ends with God and God alone."
p.44 In reference to Luke 18:9-14 "Jesus makes it clear that real prayer is simple, humble, and honest."
p.49 "David believed in a God who would mot quit on sinful servants, and David became a man who would not quit on a merciful God."
p.51 "God must have a love for irony. When the Pharaoh in Egypt ordered all the Hebrew baby boys to be killed, God put the very one who would eventually defeat him, and free the slaves, into Pharaoh's family to be raised. Likewise, when God withdrew his anointing from Saul, he put the next king in saul's palace and in his family."
p.66 "When we worship God, we begin to see that all the navel-gazing in the world will not liberate us from us. Between the morbid self-pity on the one hand and the narcissistic self-exaltation on the other, we find ourselves sick and stranded on the sandbar of wounded souls, unable to nudge ourselves off. Staring up at Him day after day, seeing Him in all His wondrous grace and grandeur, begins to lift us off the bar and put us back out on the sea of healing."
p.71 "What he had found, he explained, was the ability to be at peace where he was instead of being in constant turmoil about advancing his own future. Now, he said, he was willing to let God choose the place and set the pace."
p.81 "There were times when my wife and I told our children no about things we could have afforded, things that were not even bad for them. We did this because it is not good for us to have everything we want immediately when we want it. Sometimes not having things, or not having them now, is good for us. A life without limits becomes a life without maturity, and that is never the will of God for me."
p.88 "That includes myself. Forgiving, I am forgiven. I dare not hold over my own head that which God himself has removed. Many think it is a statement of true remorse to say, 'I know God has forgiven me, but I can't forgive myself.' It is actually a confession of unfathomable arrogance."
p.112 "The believer with the mid-set of abundance says, 'I do not have to eat all I can today because I can trust God for tomorrow just as I do today.' Carrying that forward, I can fast today because I can trust God for tomorrow."
p.114 "Be grateful for the bread and be content. If God adds a chicken, receive it with gratitude. When your cup runs over, rejoice, and never, ever take it for granted."
p.128 "By the same token, some have no full-bodied theology of healing because they have no theology of death. Death is not the worst thing that can happen to a believer."
p.133 "That end result is not just saying the Lord's Prayer. It is coming to know the Lord of the prayer."
p.152 "At the heart of both the Lord's Prayer and Psalm 23 is the acknowledgment of the achingly obvious fact that we are broken and lonely in our brokenness. We find ourselves filled with guilt and condemnation, weighted down with hatreds we don't know how to shed, and all too easily dragged under by life's trials, tribulations, and temptations."
p.158 "Saying the Lord's Prayer repeatedly, especially adding Psalm 23, can heal our inner wounds. Many spend so much time staring at their wounds that they cannot be healed of them."
p.160 "George MacDonald is quoted as saying, 'You do not have a soul; you are a soul. You have a body.'
p.9 "Prayer is about listening to His voice in the depths of your heart."
p.9 "The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the heart, mind, and soul of the one who prays."
p.28,29 "Thy name is holy. Thine is the kingdom. Thine is the power. Thine is the glory. All four are about Him, not us, not our needs, not our sins, and not our service. So much of what passes for praise today is saccharine emotionalism, filled with narcissistic self-absorption."
p.29 "The Lord's Prayer begins and ends with God and God alone."
p.44 In reference to Luke 18:9-14 "Jesus makes it clear that real prayer is simple, humble, and honest."
p.49 "David believed in a God who would mot quit on sinful servants, and David became a man who would not quit on a merciful God."
p.51 "God must have a love for irony. When the Pharaoh in Egypt ordered all the Hebrew baby boys to be killed, God put the very one who would eventually defeat him, and free the slaves, into Pharaoh's family to be raised. Likewise, when God withdrew his anointing from Saul, he put the next king in saul's palace and in his family."
p.66 "When we worship God, we begin to see that all the navel-gazing in the world will not liberate us from us. Between the morbid self-pity on the one hand and the narcissistic self-exaltation on the other, we find ourselves sick and stranded on the sandbar of wounded souls, unable to nudge ourselves off. Staring up at Him day after day, seeing Him in all His wondrous grace and grandeur, begins to lift us off the bar and put us back out on the sea of healing."
p.71 "What he had found, he explained, was the ability to be at peace where he was instead of being in constant turmoil about advancing his own future. Now, he said, he was willing to let God choose the place and set the pace."
p.81 "There were times when my wife and I told our children no about things we could have afforded, things that were not even bad for them. We did this because it is not good for us to have everything we want immediately when we want it. Sometimes not having things, or not having them now, is good for us. A life without limits becomes a life without maturity, and that is never the will of God for me."
p.88 "That includes myself. Forgiving, I am forgiven. I dare not hold over my own head that which God himself has removed. Many think it is a statement of true remorse to say, 'I know God has forgiven me, but I can't forgive myself.' It is actually a confession of unfathomable arrogance."
p.112 "The believer with the mid-set of abundance says, 'I do not have to eat all I can today because I can trust God for tomorrow just as I do today.' Carrying that forward, I can fast today because I can trust God for tomorrow."
p.114 "Be grateful for the bread and be content. If God adds a chicken, receive it with gratitude. When your cup runs over, rejoice, and never, ever take it for granted."
p.128 "By the same token, some have no full-bodied theology of healing because they have no theology of death. Death is not the worst thing that can happen to a believer."
p.133 "That end result is not just saying the Lord's Prayer. It is coming to know the Lord of the prayer."
p.152 "At the heart of both the Lord's Prayer and Psalm 23 is the acknowledgment of the achingly obvious fact that we are broken and lonely in our brokenness. We find ourselves filled with guilt and condemnation, weighted down with hatreds we don't know how to shed, and all too easily dragged under by life's trials, tribulations, and temptations."
p.158 "Saying the Lord's Prayer repeatedly, especially adding Psalm 23, can heal our inner wounds. Many spend so much time staring at their wounds that they cannot be healed of them."
p.160 "George MacDonald is quoted as saying, 'You do not have a soul; you are a soul. You have a body.'
February 6, 2016
:21 Seconds To Change Your World
Finding God's Healing and Abundance Through Prayer
By Dr. Mark Rutland
ISBN:978-0-7642-1770-8
Christian Living/Prayer
Retails for $14.99
ABOUT:
When Dr. Mark Rutland couldn't find the words to pray, he turned to the Lord's Prayer. Through it he reconnected with God and found comfort, hope and healing. In this book he reveals how your soul can be renewed in the 21 seconds it takes to pray these words of Jesus.
IMPRESSION:
Prior to reading this book, I was already very familiar with The Lord's Prayer, but not at all Psalm 23. I had heard it read by my Pastor at my Grandparent's funerals but never really understood it. The Lord's Prayer was one of the very first prayers I learned as a child and it has stuck with me my whole life. I recite it often, but not as often as I should, and I've realized I have been guilty of mindlessly praying it without really breaking it down to understand what it is I was praying. That's where this book comes in handy!
In this book, Dr. Mark Rutland explains how remarkable the historical connections between Jesus and King David were. Ironically David wrote Psalm 23 1,000 years before Jesus was born, which is very similar to The Lord's Prayer that Jesus spoke. When paired side by side, you can see how they flow together.
---------
The Lord's Prayer
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed by thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forget our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.
Amen.
----------
----------
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He marketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
----------
Similarities:
Our Father who art in heaven
The Lord is
The Lord is my shepherd
Our father
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
Lead us not into temptation
My cup runneth over
Give us this day our daily bread
For his name's sakes
Hallowed be thy name
Deliver us from evil
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil
Forever
Forever
The incredible discovery aside, main purpose of this book is to encourage you to pray The Lord's Prayer multiple times a day, as often as possible. By saturating your life in prayer, you can change your life. You can beat depression. You can beat temptations. You can restore your life and heal with this prayer. It only takes 21 seconds out of your day to recite it one time. These are considered to be medicines of the soul.
I found this book to be very exciting to read. I love learning new things and could sense the author's excitement too. Perfect book for those who are spiritually lost.
*FTC Disclaimer: This book was sent to come complimentary by Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.*
March 14, 2016
Restore your soul through prayer. Those are the words on the back cover. I have to admit that I went into this book a skeptic. I expected something along the lines of Prayer of Jabez or some other rote prayer that claims to bring you health and wealth. That is NOT this book. 21 Seconds to Change Your World, by Dr. Mark Rutland, walks through the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23 in an exegetical fashion, comparing the words, thoughts and intentions of the authors of each text.
The Book is broken up into three parts: The Journey Begins, which explains the intent of the book and the importance of these two prayers; The Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23, the meatiest section in which both of the prayers are examined thoroughly and compared to one another; and the third section, To Change Your World, gives the reader ideas and thoughts about how to use these two prayers to your personal benefit and to impact the community and world around you.
There are so many things about this book that make it worth reading. First, the unpacking of both the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23. I have both of these prayers memorized and have for most of my life. However, after reading the chapters in the second section of this book, I have a much deeper understanding of the intentions of their authors and a much greater appreciation for the beauty of their words. The author is obviously very knowledgeable and well-studied on the topics, but he is also so humble and kind in his style of writing. I felt as though I was listening to my own pastor, whom I thoroughly love and respect. Another reason this book is worth reading is the last few chapters. These chapters are the “what to do next” chapters. After studying the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23 in the previous 19 chapters, the last five chapters gave me some practical ways to use these beautiful, Biblical prayers to help me in so many different ways – inner healing, intimacy with God, deliverance from temptations, just to name a few.
Over the last week or so since I finished this book, I have been reciting the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23 regularly (21 seconds a day) and the impact in my own heart and life has been real and measurable. I am more calm. My priorities are easier to determine. My fears have been more manageable. My stress is lower. I have even been able to walk away from temptation multiple times a day (I have a massive addiction to soda and sweets). This book is not a magic formula in and of itself. But it does have wonderful instruction on how to use scripture to become more committed to Jesus, more in tune with the Holy Spirit and more effective in life and in ministry. I whole-heartedly recommend that everyone read this book!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book through Baker Books Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
The Book is broken up into three parts: The Journey Begins, which explains the intent of the book and the importance of these two prayers; The Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23, the meatiest section in which both of the prayers are examined thoroughly and compared to one another; and the third section, To Change Your World, gives the reader ideas and thoughts about how to use these two prayers to your personal benefit and to impact the community and world around you.
There are so many things about this book that make it worth reading. First, the unpacking of both the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23. I have both of these prayers memorized and have for most of my life. However, after reading the chapters in the second section of this book, I have a much deeper understanding of the intentions of their authors and a much greater appreciation for the beauty of their words. The author is obviously very knowledgeable and well-studied on the topics, but he is also so humble and kind in his style of writing. I felt as though I was listening to my own pastor, whom I thoroughly love and respect. Another reason this book is worth reading is the last few chapters. These chapters are the “what to do next” chapters. After studying the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23 in the previous 19 chapters, the last five chapters gave me some practical ways to use these beautiful, Biblical prayers to help me in so many different ways – inner healing, intimacy with God, deliverance from temptations, just to name a few.
Over the last week or so since I finished this book, I have been reciting the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23 regularly (21 seconds a day) and the impact in my own heart and life has been real and measurable. I am more calm. My priorities are easier to determine. My fears have been more manageable. My stress is lower. I have even been able to walk away from temptation multiple times a day (I have a massive addiction to soda and sweets). This book is not a magic formula in and of itself. But it does have wonderful instruction on how to use scripture to become more committed to Jesus, more in tune with the Holy Spirit and more effective in life and in ministry. I whole-heartedly recommend that everyone read this book!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book through Baker Books Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
May 2, 2016
This book talks about how the Lord’s prayer is a model of prayer (pattern of prayer) and a model prayer. The author “marries” the Lord’s prayer with Psalm 23 in prayer together.
Dr. Rutland encourages the reader to stop reading and actually pray.
He breaks down each phase from both passages of scripture and puts each phrase into one chapter, sometimes coordinating phrases from both the Lord’s prayer and Psalm 23. In each chapter, as he looks at each phrase, he discusses its’ meaning and gives historical and/or real life examples and stories that tie in with that chapter’s phrase. Basically this is helping the reader see the reason why you would want to pray these prayers.
Also included are sample prayers for each phrase/chapter.
Chapter 10 was one of my favorite chapters and it goes into the topic of forgiveness looking at the phrase, Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.
Dr. Rutland rewords this into a prayer, “Lord, forgive me of my sins only to the extent to which I forgive those who have sinned against me.” Then he adds in the text, “All inner healing begins right there.” I agree. Having experience as a prayer minister for three healing rooms, I’ve seen the power and importance of forgiveness over and over.
The book then goes on to give you suggestions on how to pray these two passages of scripture in a broad way. One way is to saturate yourself in it (or them) by praying it over and over several times daily for an extended period of time. A second way is to do meditational prayer, taking each word or phrase, one at a time and meditating on it. The third way is to pray congregationally, that is in church as a group out loud in unison. I would add that you could bring this practice to any small group such as a cell group, Bible study or prayer group.
Dr. Rutland calls these two passages of scripture (the Lord’s prayer and Psalm 23) “therapeutic” and has given praying these as assignments in couselling situations. If your prayer life could use a boost, if you need something new to pray, if you are in need of inner healing or simply love to pray or want to learn to pray more then this book is for you.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their blogging for books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Dr. Rutland encourages the reader to stop reading and actually pray.
He breaks down each phase from both passages of scripture and puts each phrase into one chapter, sometimes coordinating phrases from both the Lord’s prayer and Psalm 23. In each chapter, as he looks at each phrase, he discusses its’ meaning and gives historical and/or real life examples and stories that tie in with that chapter’s phrase. Basically this is helping the reader see the reason why you would want to pray these prayers.
Also included are sample prayers for each phrase/chapter.
Chapter 10 was one of my favorite chapters and it goes into the topic of forgiveness looking at the phrase, Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.
Dr. Rutland rewords this into a prayer, “Lord, forgive me of my sins only to the extent to which I forgive those who have sinned against me.” Then he adds in the text, “All inner healing begins right there.” I agree. Having experience as a prayer minister for three healing rooms, I’ve seen the power and importance of forgiveness over and over.
The book then goes on to give you suggestions on how to pray these two passages of scripture in a broad way. One way is to saturate yourself in it (or them) by praying it over and over several times daily for an extended period of time. A second way is to do meditational prayer, taking each word or phrase, one at a time and meditating on it. The third way is to pray congregationally, that is in church as a group out loud in unison. I would add that you could bring this practice to any small group such as a cell group, Bible study or prayer group.
Dr. Rutland calls these two passages of scripture (the Lord’s prayer and Psalm 23) “therapeutic” and has given praying these as assignments in couselling situations. If your prayer life could use a boost, if you need something new to pray, if you are in need of inner healing or simply love to pray or want to learn to pray more then this book is for you.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their blogging for books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 24, 2016
Many of us have recited both the Lord's Prayer as well as Psalms 23 many times in our lives, but how often do we really think about the words we are saying? Mark Rutland presents both of these familiar texts in depth as well as presenting amazing stories of people who's lives were changed as they applied both of these verses to their lives.
At under 200 pages, this book is a very quick read but Rutland does an amazing job presenting information without bombarding the reader with too much technical details. The book is divided into two parts dedicated to David as the author of the 23rd Psalm and to Jesus as the author of the Lord's Prayer, as well as showing the parallels between the two. Each line of their scriptures is then broken down and explained in layman's terms. Rutland then shows how now only are there parallels between David and Jesus, but also between the 23rd Psalm and the Lord's Prayer.
I liked this book and I found much of the information interesting. My own complaint is that I am of the belief that Jesus meant exactly what he said, we should pray "like" the Lord's Prayer. I think when we just recite his example, or the 23rd Psalm, it becomes routine and habit and the true meaning is left out. Even if it's just 21 seconds, I feel those 21 seconds should be used to wholeheartedly speak with God in the way Christ suggested, not recite his example. Other than that complaint, however, I do recommend this book.
*I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not encouraged to write a positive review and all opinions are my own. *
At under 200 pages, this book is a very quick read but Rutland does an amazing job presenting information without bombarding the reader with too much technical details. The book is divided into two parts dedicated to David as the author of the 23rd Psalm and to Jesus as the author of the Lord's Prayer, as well as showing the parallels between the two. Each line of their scriptures is then broken down and explained in layman's terms. Rutland then shows how now only are there parallels between David and Jesus, but also between the 23rd Psalm and the Lord's Prayer.
I liked this book and I found much of the information interesting. My own complaint is that I am of the belief that Jesus meant exactly what he said, we should pray "like" the Lord's Prayer. I think when we just recite his example, or the 23rd Psalm, it becomes routine and habit and the true meaning is left out. Even if it's just 21 seconds, I feel those 21 seconds should be used to wholeheartedly speak with God in the way Christ suggested, not recite his example. Other than that complaint, however, I do recommend this book.
*I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not encouraged to write a positive review and all opinions are my own. *
March 2, 2016
In 21 Seconds to Change Your World, Dr. Mark Rutland uses the foundations of Psalm 23 and The Lord’s Prayer to invite the reader to intentional prayer. Dr. Rutland begins by comparing and contrasting the psalm and prayer. He also provides background that adds depth to each of the passages.
The majority of 21 Seconds to Change Your World is divided into short chapters that highlight a word or phrase from Psalm 23 or The Lord’s Prayer, or both. The chapter lengths are conducive to either personal daily study or group study. Dr. Rutland closes the book with several practical suggestions for implementing both the psalm and the prayer into daily routines and congregational life.
Dr. Rutland includes personal experiences throughout the book, although I was disappointed that he did not expound on his experience of depression. Also, Dr. Rutland’s writing style is often verbose. While this writing style can be helpful for expanding the reader’s vocabulary, several sections seem wordy and redundant. I am not sure whether it was a writing, typographical, or editing error, but in one chapter, Dr. Rutland confuses Haman and Mordecai while retelling the story of Esther.
Overall, 21 Seconds to Change Your World is a beneficial read. Some readers might not prefer Dr. Rutland’s writing style. But, the concept of short chapters is helpful and allows readers to study Psalm 23 and The Lord’s Prayer at their own pace. Also, the topic of intentional prayer is crucial in the Christian life, both personally and congregationally.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The majority of 21 Seconds to Change Your World is divided into short chapters that highlight a word or phrase from Psalm 23 or The Lord’s Prayer, or both. The chapter lengths are conducive to either personal daily study or group study. Dr. Rutland closes the book with several practical suggestions for implementing both the psalm and the prayer into daily routines and congregational life.
Dr. Rutland includes personal experiences throughout the book, although I was disappointed that he did not expound on his experience of depression. Also, Dr. Rutland’s writing style is often verbose. While this writing style can be helpful for expanding the reader’s vocabulary, several sections seem wordy and redundant. I am not sure whether it was a writing, typographical, or editing error, but in one chapter, Dr. Rutland confuses Haman and Mordecai while retelling the story of Esther.
Overall, 21 Seconds to Change Your World is a beneficial read. Some readers might not prefer Dr. Rutland’s writing style. But, the concept of short chapters is helpful and allows readers to study Psalm 23 and The Lord’s Prayer at their own pace. Also, the topic of intentional prayer is crucial in the Christian life, both personally and congregationally.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
February 1, 2016
About the Book:
Restore Your Soul Through Prayer
When he didn't have the words to pray, Dr. Mark Rutland turned to the Lord's Prayer. Through it, he reconnected with God and found comfort, hope, and healing. In this book he reveals how your soul can be renewed in the 21 seconds it takes to pray these words of Jesus.
Dr. Rutland examines the Lord's Prayer alongside Psalm 23, making the two most familiar prayers of the Bible come alive like never before. You'll be inspired by stories of lives changed through this practical prayer strategy that works in even the busiest life. Discover for yourself the power of these prayers to bless and heal. In the end, it's not just about saying the prayers--it's about getting to know the Lord of the prayers.
My Review:
Sometimes in our very busy lives, we forget to prayer. Something so simple and profound yet so quiet that we forget about it. We forget that prayer is our first line of defense against the enemy. Prayer is our greatest weapon and our ONLY weapon. The author examines The Lord's Prayer as well as the 23rd Psalm. He takes them apart and looks at each word, words or phrases and explains their meanings. He gives a very thorough study on these and explains how to apply them to your everyday life.
The author has a very well researched book here and through the personal stories that he shares in the book he hopes to get us to look at these two prayers more closely and apply it to our prayer lives.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
Restore Your Soul Through Prayer
When he didn't have the words to pray, Dr. Mark Rutland turned to the Lord's Prayer. Through it, he reconnected with God and found comfort, hope, and healing. In this book he reveals how your soul can be renewed in the 21 seconds it takes to pray these words of Jesus.
Dr. Rutland examines the Lord's Prayer alongside Psalm 23, making the two most familiar prayers of the Bible come alive like never before. You'll be inspired by stories of lives changed through this practical prayer strategy that works in even the busiest life. Discover for yourself the power of these prayers to bless and heal. In the end, it's not just about saying the prayers--it's about getting to know the Lord of the prayers.
My Review:
Sometimes in our very busy lives, we forget to prayer. Something so simple and profound yet so quiet that we forget about it. We forget that prayer is our first line of defense against the enemy. Prayer is our greatest weapon and our ONLY weapon. The author examines The Lord's Prayer as well as the 23rd Psalm. He takes them apart and looks at each word, words or phrases and explains their meanings. He gives a very thorough study on these and explains how to apply them to your everyday life.
The author has a very well researched book here and through the personal stories that he shares in the book he hopes to get us to look at these two prayers more closely and apply it to our prayer lives.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
February 18, 2016
This wonderful book was a complete surprise to me. I really didn't think the author could possibly come up with enough material to write an entire book about The Lord's Prayer. I have been more or less under the mistaken impression that it was only an example of how we should pray. I'll be the first to admit that sometimes my prayers wander off into the land of me, me, me. At other times, I feel as if, "I have nothing to say today." I never considered the possibility of adopting this as a before meal prayer, and taking the time to say it many times a day. While I haven't starting saying it before all my meals, it's become my first thing in the morning prayer, and at least once during the day.
When I realized how much this book had to offer, I slowed down to absorb smaller portions of it everyday. I have highlighted areas that I plan to go back to and spend more time on again. I can see why many people experienced healing with this. There's a sense of growing trust that comes with reciting this over and over again. There is more thought to how awesome God is, and even more of a desire to fully forgive others.
All I can say is--read this!!! It will change your life.
When I realized how much this book had to offer, I slowed down to absorb smaller portions of it everyday. I have highlighted areas that I plan to go back to and spend more time on again. I can see why many people experienced healing with this. There's a sense of growing trust that comes with reciting this over and over again. There is more thought to how awesome God is, and even more of a desire to fully forgive others.
All I can say is--read this!!! It will change your life.
February 8, 2016
21 Seconds to Change Your World – Dr. Mark Rutland
I have always enjoyed listening to Dr. Mark Rutland on a local radio station. He makes the Word come alive. When I was able to request this book to review, I jumped at the opportunity!
This book concentrates on The Lord’s Prayer along with Psalms 23. I have grown up with these verses as a familiar plan. My father lived with me last fall before he passed away to his eternal home with Jesus. When he lived here I would hear him praying these two prayers fervently. We were even awoken many nights by his powerful prayers.
I love when Rutland states, “ The Lord’s Prayer begins and ends with God and God alone.” I have to say, I have never thought about it that way before. That is powerful! These prayers are powerful if you take to heart what is truly being said. I think we often ‘go through the motions’ without truly appreciating what is there. I know I do.
This is a great book. I will be chewing on it for quite a while. If you are looking for a book to give a deeper perspective on something I think many of us take for granted, read this book!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have always enjoyed listening to Dr. Mark Rutland on a local radio station. He makes the Word come alive. When I was able to request this book to review, I jumped at the opportunity!
This book concentrates on The Lord’s Prayer along with Psalms 23. I have grown up with these verses as a familiar plan. My father lived with me last fall before he passed away to his eternal home with Jesus. When he lived here I would hear him praying these two prayers fervently. We were even awoken many nights by his powerful prayers.
I love when Rutland states, “ The Lord’s Prayer begins and ends with God and God alone.” I have to say, I have never thought about it that way before. That is powerful! These prayers are powerful if you take to heart what is truly being said. I think we often ‘go through the motions’ without truly appreciating what is there. I know I do.
This is a great book. I will be chewing on it for quite a while. If you are looking for a book to give a deeper perspective on something I think many of us take for granted, read this book!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2016
Do you have twenty one seconds every day? We all do right? Or at least I think we manage to find hte time. If your heart is beating, then I think it's a safe bet. Dr. Rutland has done something beautiful in 21 Seconds to Change Your World by taking The Lords Prayer and the Twenty Third Psalm and making a studying that will open your heart to a deeper understanding of faith, a complete new level of prayer and a level of intimacy with God that begins with 21 seconds a day. You will find this book refreshing, beautiful and completely life giving. Overall, I found this book to be easy to read, full of biblical and practical teaching, insightful to God's words with principles that demonstrate wisdom into my every day life. This book has strengthened my walk and it is one that I know I can look back on it years later to help in different season. I recommend this to anyone look to grow in their faith, prayer walk or deepen their relationship with Christ. It is a very unique book.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me a complimentary copy for review purposes only. I was not compensated to give this book a positive review. I am giving this book a 5/5 stars.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me a complimentary copy for review purposes only. I was not compensated to give this book a positive review. I am giving this book a 5/5 stars.
August 8, 2016
Dr. Mark Rutland’s new book, 21 Seconds to Change Your World, is about prayer. Dr. Rutland writes about his own prayer journey and how he discovered how praying The Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23 changed his life and will change ours. Dr. Rutland takes you through The Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23 and illustrates how the words in both of these prayers can guide us in our prayer lives and bring healing and abundance to our lives. Dr. Rutland challenges all who read this book to pray these verses over our lives and for others as well.
I recommend this book to anyone who is looking to enrich their prayer lives. Dr. Rutland’s prayer challenge is life changing; I accepted his challenge and it has definitely changed me.
I would like to hear from you and what you think of Dr. Rutland’s prayer challenge; please leave a comment below.
Happy Reading!
Note: I have received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
I recommend this book to anyone who is looking to enrich their prayer lives. Dr. Rutland’s prayer challenge is life changing; I accepted his challenge and it has definitely changed me.
I would like to hear from you and what you think of Dr. Rutland’s prayer challenge; please leave a comment below.
Happy Reading!
Note: I have received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
Read
January 23, 201621 Seconds To Change Your World : Finding God's Healing and Abundance Through Prayer by Mark Rutland is a powerful book showing a new way to look at The Lord's Prayer and the 23rd Psalm. The author shows how using the two of these daily can restore your soul.
Examining both and who they came from as well, Jesus and David and how they relate to each other. He goes in to an in depth study of both, I enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to give it a try in my own life. For I know that prayers are answered, miracles can and still do happen. What better way to pray then how Jesus taught us?
I highly recommend this book
I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
Examining both and who they came from as well, Jesus and David and how they relate to each other. He goes in to an in depth study of both, I enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to give it a try in my own life. For I know that prayers are answered, miracles can and still do happen. What better way to pray then how Jesus taught us?
I highly recommend this book
I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
February 3, 2016
In the book 21 Seconds to Change Your World, Dr. Mark Rutland writes about his struggle during a dark time in his life and how praying the Our Father Prayer and the 23rd Psalm helped renew his walk with God and bring him out of the depression.
Dr. Rutland uses personal illustrations and illustrations from others who have been impacted by praying the Our Father Prayer and the 23rd Psalm multiple times a day. He weaves the similarities and patterns found in both the Our Father Prayer and the 23rd Psalm and shows how they work hand in hand.
I would highly recommend this book to enrich your prayer life and challenge you to pray more.
Dr. Rutland uses personal illustrations and illustrations from others who have been impacted by praying the Our Father Prayer and the 23rd Psalm multiple times a day. He weaves the similarities and patterns found in both the Our Father Prayer and the 23rd Psalm and shows how they work hand in hand.
I would highly recommend this book to enrich your prayer life and challenge you to pray more.
January 21, 2016
Marketed as a book on the Lord's prayer and how the 21 seconds it takes to say it can benefit us, I was surprised to discover it included the 23rd Psalm as well. Part one gives an introduction to their authors, Jesus and David. Part two is the substance of the book, where Mark Rutland breaks down the prayer and the Psalm phrase by phrase, and part three lists some ways we can use them in our lives. A worthwhile read for those in positions of leadership within the church, as well as for Christians in general.
January 12, 2017
Just finished. I highly recommend this short book (written by an Atlanta pastor and International ministry leader Dr. Mark Rutland) which shares wonderfully about the both power of praying and parallels between the Lord's Prayer and the 23rd Psalm, both of which can be said to oneself or aloud in 21 seconds. He encourages and challenges for one or both to be used multiple times a day and in various styles to powerful results.
June 23, 2021
Read this in my evangelical phase. Liked it at the time. Not sure if it is evolving faith friendly. It's about the Lord's Prayer and did make some interesting points! I will say, I know it by heart now (but that could also be my Episcopalian self)
July 7, 2016
This is a must read for both the pastor and the parishioner. :21 Seconds To Change Your World has challenged me to rethink my theology on the Lord's Prayer. I am grateful for the way he weaves Biblical teaching and practical application into this conscience, encouraging book.
July 28, 2024
A very nice book. Breaking the Lord's Prayer into bite-size chunks, a deep dive to better understand the significance of each part. Twenty-one seconds a day, and you have prayed the most perfect prayer.
April 3, 2016
One of the best books on spiritual living that reveals one of the best practices for spiritual living.
May 19, 2016
http://mobleymania.blogspot.com/2016/...
loved this book!
loved this book!
August 22, 2016
I heard Dr. Rutland speak about this topic and it was powerful! I love praying scripture and praying the Lord's Prayer is now part of what I pray daily. Excellent read!
October 27, 2017
This book is about healing through prayer. Dr. Rutland writes about the restoration of one's soul when praying The Lord's Prayer and Psalm 23. It takes only 21 seconds!
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