Love Written in Stone

I was a little skeptical about this book. I did not really understand what Dr. Philip Carlson was trying to do. On the back cover, it is introduced as "a unique perspective to the connection between following God's guidelines and wellness in our lives" because Dr. Carlson is both a pastor and a medical doctor. It goes on to say"that he demystifies God's expectations  regarding family relationships, nutrition, sexuality, the environment and more and they are backed up by medical research.

Instead I found myself loving this book. The Gospel is central in this book and it is illustrated in all the relationships of our life. The gospel is good for us and living according to God's ways is best.

The subtitle of the book best explains it: Finding God''s Grace in the boundaries he sets. The first part of the book is Guidance for our relationship with God. Dr. Carlson thoroughly explains that sin is our problem and that we can hide from it but in doing so we destroy ourselves and those around us. Then the next section talks about forgiveness by God and how we are to forgive others. That forgiveness is good for our health and research shows it. The next section on Gratitude and Joy is amazing. The book contains within it and in an appendix many scripture on happiness and joy to reflect on. This attitude which God commands us is actually known to sustain us during depression, suicidal tendencies and other medical issues. 

The second part of the book is "Instructions for our relationships and others" . Their is an honest look at the importance of sex in the context of marriage only and on the importance of love and commitment on our families and on our society.

The third section of the book, talks about "Directions for a Healthier Self". Dr Carlson explores the importance of sleep, sabbath, and seasons of rest to the well being of our spirit and physical body. I left this part thinking that a loving God provides good things for me not to hinder me but because he loves me.

The final section talks about "Insight for our Relationship with Creation". God is redeeming not only us through his gospel but also the created world. We have a responsibility to take care of the world that God gave us dominion over.

I would recommend this book for a seeker,a new believer or just someone wants to know how God's grace impacts us, the people in our lives and the world we live in.

I received this book form Bethany House in exchange for this review. I did not have to write positive things. I received no other compensation.