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Joy!: God's Secret Weapon for Every Believer
Experience God's Joy Daily!
Have you settled for less than unspeakable joy in your life's journey? The Holy Spirit is challenging you to expect more--a lot more!
Georgian Banov knew nothing of this supernatural joy. Born and raised under the oppression of atheist and Communist Bulgaria, he escaped miraculously to the United States, where he was embraced by the warmth and love of the "Jesus people." Encountering God, along with the truth of His Word and the ongoing work of the Spirit, has led him to a life of freedom and holy joy.
In these pages, Georgian will help you
· become a friend of God and know Him as an affectionate Father
· discover performance-free grace in the fullness of what Christ has done
· put an end to religious striving and self-effort
· find victory over the power of sin so you can be both holy and happy
· be the hands and feet of Jesus accomplishing His justice in the world
Joy is not some nice-to-have "bonus" of the Christian faith. With Jesus living inside you through the Spirit, you can experience the bliss of God's presence as you walk out your calling with purpose and power!
"Wow! I love this book, this man and this message!"--from the foreword by Bill Johnson
Have you settled for less than unspeakable joy in your life's journey? The Holy Spirit is challenging you to expect more--a lot more!
Georgian Banov knew nothing of this supernatural joy. Born and raised under the oppression of atheist and Communist Bulgaria, he escaped miraculously to the United States, where he was embraced by the warmth and love of the "Jesus people." Encountering God, along with the truth of His Word and the ongoing work of the Spirit, has led him to a life of freedom and holy joy.
In these pages, Georgian will help you
· become a friend of God and know Him as an affectionate Father
· discover performance-free grace in the fullness of what Christ has done
· put an end to religious striving and self-effort
· find victory over the power of sin so you can be both holy and happy
· be the hands and feet of Jesus accomplishing His justice in the world
Joy is not some nice-to-have "bonus" of the Christian faith. With Jesus living inside you through the Spirit, you can experience the bliss of God's presence as you walk out your calling with purpose and power!
"Wow! I love this book, this man and this message!"--from the foreword by Bill Johnson
- GenresChristian
176 pages, Paperback
Published March 2, 2021
31 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 16, 2021
If you are looking for an uplifting read, I highly recommend Joy, by Georgian Banov. He fled Bulgaria, leaving the poverty and misery of communism behind; discovering a freedom only achieved through a relationship with Christ. Georgian Banov and his wife Winnie have traveled internationally helping others find the joy that God has in store for his children. Their music and outreach ministry has brought christian love and happiness to so many who have so little. I found myself smiling as I read.
March 17, 2021
Joy! God’s Secret Weapon for Every Believer by Georgian Banov will have you in tears and laughter as one gets an inside view of his life encounters. This is a book of honor, courage and joy. A stirring anticipation rises as one learns his gripping testimony, so relevant now. The words jump off the pages into ones heart, riveting! Perhaps you have considered this book looking for joy. You won’t be disappointed.
May 9, 2021
I have known of Mr. Banov since I was in high school when I bought his Silverwind album “Song in the Night.” I’m surprised I didn’t wear the grooves off the album, I played it so much. Even as a teenager, I was afraid of the dark, so this song in particular soothed my heart. I had always been interested in the Soviet Union and fascinated with stories of those who escape Communism. (Even to the point of getting my master’s degree in Soviet Studies.) Fast forward many years, and I found myself searching YouTube for Song in the Night to play for my own young daughters. I had forgotten how soothing the song was and how full of hope it made me.
I found this book fascinating, how God intersected Mr. Banov’s life in so many different and miraculous ways. I know many who have escaped Communism, and joy did not mark their lives. So I read with great interest how joy in Christ transformed Mr. Banov’s life. I was very inspired to face my own challenges armed with the same joy.
Thank you, Mr. Banov, for writing about your life. Your music has meant a lot to me through the years.
I gratefully received an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
I found this book fascinating, how God intersected Mr. Banov’s life in so many different and miraculous ways. I know many who have escaped Communism, and joy did not mark their lives. So I read with great interest how joy in Christ transformed Mr. Banov’s life. I was very inspired to face my own challenges armed with the same joy.
Thank you, Mr. Banov, for writing about your life. Your music has meant a lot to me through the years.
I gratefully received an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
March 22, 2021
Have you ever wondered how some Christians exuberate supernatural joy? In this compelling story, Georgian Banov shared what it took him to escape from communism in Bulgaria and receive God's embracing loving and powerful joy. From overcoming homelessness in California to becoming a teacher, writer, and known evangelist, he uses his music gift and life experiences to teach the body of Christ how to pursue a deeper intimacy with Jesus. The book is a must-read, easy to emerge with exceptional nuggets for spiritual growth. Well done Georgian!!
March 23, 2021
An exceptional book to read. It’s inspiring, faith building and helps the reader to understand the true understanding of what it is to have joy in the Lord. Highly recommend it.
March 27, 2021
Hello! More than a book to pass the time away. All my preconceived ideas of joy as a temporary feeling depending on things going my way were all blown away! The joy of Jesus is a ‘feast’ to strengthen and sustain in every season of life. The true stories of salvation, relationships and ‘first love’ are highlighted by the constant presence and powerful words of a joyful Father. It left me with a sweet aftertaste and a healing kiss that makes everything better. So glad I jumped into the river of JOY! Come on friends! What are you waiting for?
August 20, 2021
I’ve Got Joy!
PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: http://bookreadingtic.com/2021/08/20/... THANK YOU!
Georgian grew up in communist controlled Bulgaria where life was a meaningless drudgery. People tried to survive despite constant lack of food, horrible living conditions, and trying to stay out of trouble with the communists. As a young adult, he and a friend made a harrowing escape through the Iron Curtain, and ended up in America.
They were pleasantly surprised by our country because the communists had insisted that our land was the worst place on earth. Georgian was often witnessed to by members of the Jesus movement. Eventually, he had a radical experience with God, became saved, and was filled with a joy like he had never known.
Because of that, his life took a different turn. He attended seminary, was part of a successful Christian rock band, and met his wife. The couple have ministered in this country, and around the world, including sneaking hundreds of Bulgarian Bibles into his native land. Georgian has had an amazing relationship and communication with God.
They have witnessed real life miracles such as having enough food to feed 1200 but when 2400 showed up, supernaturally, everyone had a plateful. Or a miracle that involved five hundred pounds of frozen chicken being left outside for days in temperatures over 100 degrees, yet the chicken did not thaw out, and was still safe to be served to the people it was meant for.
No matter the situation, Georgian says God’s joy has gotten him through it, and that same joy is available for each of us. Georgian’s life is fascinating, and his advice to seek God’s joy is sound. I recommend this five-star book to fans of true stories, or those who want to have a fuller life themselves.
Chosen Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Joy—God’s Secret Weapon for Every Believer, for the purpose of review.
PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: http://bookreadingtic.com/2021/08/20/... THANK YOU!
Georgian grew up in communist controlled Bulgaria where life was a meaningless drudgery. People tried to survive despite constant lack of food, horrible living conditions, and trying to stay out of trouble with the communists. As a young adult, he and a friend made a harrowing escape through the Iron Curtain, and ended up in America.
They were pleasantly surprised by our country because the communists had insisted that our land was the worst place on earth. Georgian was often witnessed to by members of the Jesus movement. Eventually, he had a radical experience with God, became saved, and was filled with a joy like he had never known.
Because of that, his life took a different turn. He attended seminary, was part of a successful Christian rock band, and met his wife. The couple have ministered in this country, and around the world, including sneaking hundreds of Bulgarian Bibles into his native land. Georgian has had an amazing relationship and communication with God.
They have witnessed real life miracles such as having enough food to feed 1200 but when 2400 showed up, supernaturally, everyone had a plateful. Or a miracle that involved five hundred pounds of frozen chicken being left outside for days in temperatures over 100 degrees, yet the chicken did not thaw out, and was still safe to be served to the people it was meant for.
No matter the situation, Georgian says God’s joy has gotten him through it, and that same joy is available for each of us. Georgian’s life is fascinating, and his advice to seek God’s joy is sound. I recommend this five-star book to fans of true stories, or those who want to have a fuller life themselves.
Chosen Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Joy—God’s Secret Weapon for Every Believer, for the purpose of review.
August 17, 2021
Why I Choose this Book
Joy is a daily part of my life. A joyful heart does good like medicine... In Your presence is fullness of joy... Those who sow in tears will reap in joy... May the God of hope fill you with all joy... The Bible talks so much about joy and so picking up this book seemed like a good idea.
What I Thought about the Book
I started reading it around four months ago, and it's a short book, but I had a lot going on in life and didn't reach for it often. Generally, when I read a book for review I like to finish it within several sittings so I can share my overall impressions in a conscious manner. With all that's going on in my life right now (family medical issues that have me dividing my time between two states) I've stopped requesting books for review, but I still have several that had been sent to me that I'm trying to catch up on. With that in mind though, take my review with a grain of salt.
The author's story is intriguing. He was born in communist Bulgaria and was one of the founding members of the first official rock 'n roll band in the country. He escaped as a young man and came to the USA.
The book is interesting and the author makes some super good points about how important joy is. As Christians, we're not supposed to muddle our way through life following a set of rules. The joy of the Lord is supposed to be our strength, and the more we follow that the more power - and strength - our lives will have.
As I read, I did have some issues. Mostly with the fact that the author seemed to be much more emotions-lead than what I would agree with. Yes, emotions can be valid and they are important. But, there are times when people can get carried away with emotions, even good ones.
Conclusion
I'm not exactly sure where I stand with all this because I haven't researched it enough so I'm not going in-depth with the subject. I just don't agree with every aspect of this book, hence why I'm giving it three stars.
Rating
I’m giving Joy! 3 out of 5 stars. Thank you to Chosen Books for sending me a copy of the book so I could post this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Joy is a daily part of my life. A joyful heart does good like medicine... In Your presence is fullness of joy... Those who sow in tears will reap in joy... May the God of hope fill you with all joy... The Bible talks so much about joy and so picking up this book seemed like a good idea.
What I Thought about the Book
I started reading it around four months ago, and it's a short book, but I had a lot going on in life and didn't reach for it often. Generally, when I read a book for review I like to finish it within several sittings so I can share my overall impressions in a conscious manner. With all that's going on in my life right now (family medical issues that have me dividing my time between two states) I've stopped requesting books for review, but I still have several that had been sent to me that I'm trying to catch up on. With that in mind though, take my review with a grain of salt.
The author's story is intriguing. He was born in communist Bulgaria and was one of the founding members of the first official rock 'n roll band in the country. He escaped as a young man and came to the USA.
The book is interesting and the author makes some super good points about how important joy is. As Christians, we're not supposed to muddle our way through life following a set of rules. The joy of the Lord is supposed to be our strength, and the more we follow that the more power - and strength - our lives will have.
As I read, I did have some issues. Mostly with the fact that the author seemed to be much more emotions-lead than what I would agree with. Yes, emotions can be valid and they are important. But, there are times when people can get carried away with emotions, even good ones.
Conclusion
I'm not exactly sure where I stand with all this because I haven't researched it enough so I'm not going in-depth with the subject. I just don't agree with every aspect of this book, hence why I'm giving it three stars.
Rating
I’m giving Joy! 3 out of 5 stars. Thank you to Chosen Books for sending me a copy of the book so I could post this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 19, 2021
This book is endorsed by Bill Johnson - the notorious false teacher from Bethel Church which has gone the way of the world, so that flagged orange for me to start with, but there is clear false teaching in the book which anyone not strong in the scriptures would maybe not be aware of. For starters he believes we as believers are already fully sanctified right now - which is the same heresy as being able to live in sinless perfection right now - something the bible is against. Avoid at all costs this false teacher! I'm burning the copy I own.
October 26, 2022
wonderful book
I loved every word. So many awesome stories and testimonies. Gif is always good. What a testimony of deliverance from Communism and God drawing him into the kingdom with a plan and purpose for his life. My kids grew up with Bullfrogs and butterflies and Music Machine. I had no idea Georgian and Winnie were involved in that. I recommend this book to all.
I loved every word. So many awesome stories and testimonies. Gif is always good. What a testimony of deliverance from Communism and God drawing him into the kingdom with a plan and purpose for his life. My kids grew up with Bullfrogs and butterflies and Music Machine. I had no idea Georgian and Winnie were involved in that. I recommend this book to all.
June 28, 2023
I received so much of God's love into my heart from reading this book
What a powerful testimony, inspiring message, and great teaching by this author. He shared deep truths and made them easy to understand. God's love and joy pours out from every page; I feel revived and want to read this book all over again!
What a powerful testimony, inspiring message, and great teaching by this author. He shared deep truths and made them easy to understand. God's love and joy pours out from every page; I feel revived and want to read this book all over again!
September 7, 2024
And The Light Turned On- Renewed in Jesus
Georgian Banov’s book on Joy was a full and complete meal to digest on Father God’s Joy. It opened up for me, as I listened to the audible book and followed in reading it, a new panorama or world of God’s possibilities and probabilities. That you Georgian and Coco Banov. Renewed in Jesus
Georgian Banov’s book on Joy was a full and complete meal to digest on Father God’s Joy. It opened up for me, as I listened to the audible book and followed in reading it, a new panorama or world of God’s possibilities and probabilities. That you Georgian and Coco Banov. Renewed in Jesus
August 12, 2023
Excellent Book Describing the Joy Believers Can Know.
Georgian tells of his escape from Bulgaria, and how he found Christ. He then gives how the Lord grew him into a joyful minister, spreading the joy of the Lord.
Georgian tells of his escape from Bulgaria, and how he found Christ. He then gives how the Lord grew him into a joyful minister, spreading the joy of the Lord.
April 5, 2021
A simple and sincere book on JOY that touched my heart to tears.
May 26, 2021
A must read- loved it
What a powerful testimony,- we serve an awesome God, all honour to king Jesus. May God restore His joy in all His children!
What a powerful testimony,- we serve an awesome God, all honour to king Jesus. May God restore His joy in all His children!
May 17, 2022
One of the greatest books ever written
July 30, 2022
I love Georgian's story! And the man truly doesn't radiate true Jesus Joy!
July 27, 2023
Holy Spirit will touch you when reading JOY
It is an honest encouraging account of struggle receive God's JOY ,and the fruit that comes with Joy, in co-laboring with God!!
It is an honest encouraging account of struggle receive God's JOY ,and the fruit that comes with Joy, in co-laboring with God!!
September 17, 2023
Absolutely loved this book ! An inspiring testimony, along with Bible study, and a call to become involved all in one. Highly recommended for finding true joy.
January 26, 2024
Amazing book. Everytime I read it, I felt the Holy Spirit sprinkle joy into my heart. Georgian Banov has an incredible testimony. Beautiful book!
March 2, 2024
Georgian helped me to see joy in the small things and understand the contagious nature of joy.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews