The Complete Idiot's Guide to Prayer Book

The "Complete Idiot" guidebook series that taught us how to make beer, play bridge, fish, gamble, and live with a cat, now ventures into the arena of prayer. Although this may seem like a crass and commercial undertaking, it is certainly true that many people feel unworthy or inadequate when they try to give voice to a prayer. As a primer on Christian prayer, this could be the boost that helps a beginner or a doubter take the leap of faith and start a dialogue with God.Typical of the "Complete Idiot's Guide" style, the format uses plenty of cartoon-like illustrations, loads of informative titbits, and most importantly a warm, reassuring voice that takes a complicated issue and breaks it down into manageable bites. Chapter one explores "What Prayer Isn't (and is)". For example, it is not "Self-Help", a "Cosmic Shrink", "Wishin' and Hopin'" or "Hyperspritualizing". According to authors Galli and Bell, prayer is a conversation with God: "Prayer is less like making a speech and more like talking to a friend". This kind of relaxed, yet highly respectful approach toward prayer characterises much of the book's wisdom. Readers who aren't interested in exploring prayer through a Christian lens probably won't find this guidebook useful. Others, even readers who consider themselves aficionados, will probably appreciate the down-to-earth discussions on "Suffering", "Praying the Gospels", and "Dealing with Doubts: No Answers". --Gail HudsonRead More