BOOKS

Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac

The devotional is based on ten affirmations for those dealing with mental health issues whether anxiety, bipolar, depression eating disorders, PTSD, or others. I wrote the devotionals and my daughter, the licensed clinical social worker, Faith A. Watkins, penned the applications. Plus our 14-year-old grandson/nephew, Nathan, brought our cheerleader, Zac, to life.

Free excerpt

Interview with podcaster, Rebecca Ford

Buy

If You’re Not Dead, You’re Not Done!

Living with passion, purpose and pizazz

Your personal odometer may be showing a bit of wear and tear: balding tires, dented fenders, body corrosion. You may be on the journey of being old, yet you’re still alive and being renewed day by day. That’s right! If you woke up this morning, God has something eternally important and purposeful for you to do or learn.

New York Times best-selling author, Jerry B. Jenkins writes: “I planned to read If You’re Not Dead, You’re Not Done after my nap, but it put me to sleep again. No, wait, that was another book. I loved this one, and so will you.”

And author David L. Winters writes: “A humorous guide to staying young while growing old. Brilliant!” —David L. Winters, author of Exercising Your Faith

Browse and buy

The Imitation of Christ: Classic Devotions in Today’s Language

Thomas à Kempis’ Imitation of Christ has been a best-seller for nearly 600 years! (It was first copied in 1420!) Now it’s completely updated in today’s language and organized into 90 devotional readings.

This book changed my life. While I had a degree in theology, and had been writing Christian books and articles most of my professional life, à Kempis had a close, deep relationship with Jesus Christ that I didn’t. I knew Christ, but I didn’t know Christ. I have read through à Kempis’ book at least ten times now, and each time, I find myself knowing Christ in closer and deeper ways. So, I invite you to join millions of readers who, for nearly 600 years, have become more like Christ through this amazing book.

“Each morning I eagerly go to this modern version of The Imitation of Christ knowing it will convict and reach my spirit, giving me spiritual focus throughout the day. It is the best devotional I’ve found in many years.” Lissa Halls Johnson, best-selling author and speaker

“James Watkins has done a thorough, sensitive, beautiful job updating Thomas a’ Kempis’s The Imitation of Christ into a modern classic of ninety riveting readings.” Bob Hostetler, bestselling author, pastor, and speaker

Browse, buy


Intimacy with Christ: More Classic Devotionals

This is a sequel to The Imitation of Christ

Most churches are great at sharing information about Christ and many are good at providing opportunities for involvement for Christ. But according to Willow Creek Association network of thousands of churches, “63 percent of the most active and committed church members are so discouraged with church and its ability to support their faith that they are considering leaving the church.” I believe what’s missing is intimacy with Christ.

These authors have been honored for centuries for the depth of their relationship with him: Bernard of Clairvaux, Francis of Assisi, Madame Guyon, John of the Cross, Lady Julian of Norwich, Thomas a Kempis, and Brother Lawrence. I’ve organize the writings of these classic devotional authors into seven disciplines that help believers develop a deeper relationship with him: Community, Discipline, Obedience, Solitude, Meditation, Servanthood and suffering


Browse, buy


Jesus: His Life and Lessons

No agenda. No commentary. No dogma. Just 100% Jesus!

Discover the life and lessons of Jesus. This user-friendly book arranges His life in chronological order and His teachings arranged by topics. And for good measure, a glossary to make it even easier to explore the gospels.

It’s perfect for those unbelievers exploring Jesus and his teaching as well as new believers.

Browse and buy

God, I Don’t Understand: Unanswered Prayers, Unfulfilled Promises, Unpunished Evil

Do you struggle with unanswered prayer, unfulfilled promises, and unpunished evil? These three issues have confronted believers for thousands of years.

Asaph, one of the chief musicians of King David and King Solomon, poetically and painfully chronicled his dark doubts, crippling confusion,and constant questions (Psalms 50, 73-83). He watched the glorious rise of Israel—and its shameful decline and utter destruction. Walk with me as we exam Scripture, the work of biblical scholars, and the experiences of everyday people to bring hope and healing to those struggling with soul-shaking questions.

Read an excerpt

Buy

FREE eBOOK! Squeezing Good Out of Bad: Top ten ways to deal with life’s lemons

Life is filled with lemons! So here are top ten ways to squeeze the good out of those life-puckering situations. And I’m a great guide since I’ve felt the squeeze of cancer, unemployment, family crises and chronic nose hair. Join me on the journey with hope and lots of humor.

Get your free book!

The Why Files series


Twenty-five hundred questions from students in public and private, suburban and urban junior and senior high schools on sex, death, and the supernatural.


When Can I Start Dating?: Questions about Love, Sex, and a Cure for Zits

The book addresses common questions teenagers might have about relationships, sexuality, and personal concerns like acne, essentially providing a guide for navigating these aspects of growing up. It aims to provide accurate and age-appropriate information on these topics, helping teens make informed decisions.

Is There Really Life After Death?: Questions About School Shootings, Grief, and Coming Back As a Gerbil

This book came in second place in Christianity Today‘s Book of the Year Award for teens. It addresses such questions as why people die, what happens after death, how to cope with suicide and terminally ill loved ones, and why classmates kill, and discusses how God’s love can help people cope with difficult situations.

Are There Really Ghosts?: Questions About Angels, the Supernatural, and the Psychic Friends Network

This book explores the topic of whether paranormal phenomena like ghosts, angels, and psychic abilities actually exist, examining evidence and perspectives surrounding these subjects. The book takes a skeptical approach, analyzing claims about the supernatural with a critical lens, considering scientific explanations and potential biases in reported experiences.



But wait, there’s more!