Book Reviews

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   In a sea of sexually-charged television, movie and social media offerings, one who speaks and writes on the subject of celibacy may be thought to be swimming uphill.  Nevertheless, with the rise in sexually transmitted diseases among our youth, coupled with a ‘let it all hang out’ culture in our modern society, perhaps the celibate way may be worthy of a closer look.

    It takes a certain amount of bravery to take a stand and say ‘No’ when others are saying ‘Yes’.  Into this moral fray comes the work “Ten Keys to a Celibate Lifestyle” by Darna Bedwell (82 pages, 2015, Tate Publishing LLC).  Bedwell writes in a personal style about a subject that may cause some to cautiously smile, but, by the end of her short book, will be a subject which they may clearly grow to support.

    Bedwell, an accomplished artist, musician, and poet, tackles this subject from both a biblical and personal perspective.  It uses the KJV Scriptures to draw upon, for clear, concise background of much of her writing.  The book includes some of her artwork, some of her poetry, and a lot of wisdom from one who has lived the subject that she is writing about.

    Among the ten chapters of the book, are included:  “Hear No Evil”, “Avoid Placing Yourself in Compromising Situations”, and “Identify and Begin to Develop Your Talents”.  It also includes a long-range celibacy plan, in five year increments, and stresses that IF the Lord leads that right spouse to you, you will be ready for marriage.  However, IF the Lord chooses NOT to have you to marry, then there is a way of walking before Him that will glorify Him AND keep you fit to be in His service.

    We hear a lot of ‘talk’ about the need for young women--especially young Christian women--to be brought up in much of the truths outlined in The Book of Titus, Chapter two.  However, there seem to be fewer and fewer women willing to tackle such subjects from not only the view of the Bible, but from the view of practical living.  Bedwell accomplishes both tasks.  This is a work that would be excellent in the school setting, without fear of it straying off topic.

    “Ten Keys to a Celibate Lifestyle” is a welcome addition to the bookshelf of many a parent, church, or school.  Even a home school environment would enjoy this work.  It gets to the biblical point in a quick manner.  Copies of it may be hard to find, but worth the effort.  The first, best place to search for it is on line, or, through your favorite electronic bookseller.

    Mike Ramey is a Minister, Reviewer and Syndicated Columnist who lives in Indianapolis, Indiana.  He brings current and lesser-known titles to light to re-kindle a love for reading and thinking in a sea of modern technology.  Feel free to reach him via email at [email protected].  © 2018, 2019 Barnstorm Communications.

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