Book Review and Giveaway: Start Here by Alex and Brett Harris

Alex and Brett Harris are twin brothers who as teenagers wrote the book "Do Hard Things". This book inspired teens around the world to make the most of their teen years. But their readers were left with the question - "How do I get started?" Thus, the book "Start Here" was born.

The Harris brothers blog at Rebelution and this is how they describe their book:

"We wrote this book because we know a lot of you want to do hard things for God, but you don’t know where to start. We wanted a book we could hand to any teen who is ready to tackle some hard things — whether it’s a big project, a fundraiser, or struggling to balance everything God has already given you. Read this book, then go out and do hard things!"

Is it strange to admit that though this book is written for teenagers, I was deeply motivated by them? Here's a few of the golden nuggets I personally gleaned!

1. "We don't get it together and go - you more often get it together by going." pg.33 I have felt this way with blogging. As far as the technology has gone, I had NO clue what I was doing on day one. I have come a long way and I got it together simply by just grinding away and doing it!

2. "Some obstacles and opportunities will not become visible until you are in the middle of your project." pg. 32 So true! The ministry of Women Living Well has taken many twists and turns that I could never have planned for, imagined or manipulated into happening. Being on the Rachael Ray Show is one of the twists and opportunities that I never expected!

3. The Obstacle of Pride - Proverbs 27:21 says "The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives." I have been flattered by some generously kind emails. In the book the story of Corrie Ten Boom hit me HARD! For starters, I am named after Corrie Ten Boom - so when I hear a quote by her, my ears perk up and I listen intently.

Here's the story recounted from page 55: "When people come up and give me a compliment - 'Corrie, that was a good talk,' or ;Corrie, you were so brave,; I take each remark as if it were a flower. At the end of each day I lift up the bouquet of flowers I have gathered throughout the day and say, 'Here you are, Lord, it is all yours."

Beautifully put Corrie!

4. "Busyness does not mean I am diligent. Busyness does not mean I am faithful. Busyness does not mean I am fruitful."pg 56 Bummer, cause I feel so busy - but it's not a proper gauge!

5. "The best way to remember God's calling in all our decisions is to know God more. When we set aside time - whether on a Sunday or another day, whether in the morning or late at night - to simply be with God and not "do" anything for Him, we become better equipped to serve Him." pg. 61 Ultimately, it's about our walk with the King!

This book is a great read and I am so pleased to have one to give away to one of my readers! If you are a teen, have a teen at home, in your church or in your extended family that you think could benefit from this book - leave a comment below. I will be randomly choosing a winner on Saturday, March 20th at 10pm.

If you do not win, you can purchase a copy at RandomHouse.com

Walk with the King!