No Other Gods by Kelly Minter

Reviewed by Dale Lewis

"With biblical clarity, Minter writes from her heart daring to shine a flashlight into the dark closets of modern idol worship."

As Americanized Christians, we’d never be caught red-handed worshiping a golden calf like those not-so-smart Israelites. . . that’s ancient history! And yet, our present-day lives often center around our deepest needs and greatest treasures. These longings can morph into passions we not only pursue but also worship.

Recording artist/author Kelly Minter explores what happens when our good desires, (i.e. relationships, family, financial security, etc.), become false gods--idols who with their great charisma rob us of an intimate relationship with the heavenly Father.

There is an overwhelming passion in her words. With biblical clarity, she writes from her heart daring to shine a flashlight into the dark closets of modern idol worship. Her words prick, convict and encourage . . . cause the reader to reflect, regret, and at times--become uncomfortable. I’d loved to sit under her teaching at a Bible study or in a casual conversation about our individual faith walks.

Her refreshing perspective on Leah, Rachel and Jacob’s story (found in Genesis) is biblically in-depth and thought-provoking. Leah’s in the chapter entitled “Loved Less” and Rachel’s chapter entitled “Not Enough” reveals each of their idols in loving Jacob.

The chapter “There” was the most profoundly poignant to me. “As we make our way forward into a closer relationship with Christ, we must revisit the truth that He is not just God, but our God, and in order for us to experience Him as ours, we must trust He is there,” states the author.

By sharing her personal illustrations, it was obvious raw emotions and memories would stir within Kelly Minter. Yet she continued to pen what needed to be written.

So what are you waiting for—a personal invitation? Stop denying there aren’t any idols in your life. Discover the joy and contentment found in exchanging everyday gods for the One true, “there” God.

A correlating Bible study guide by Lifeway is available for individual or group study. More than just a traditional Bible study, the curriculum also includes recipes and a focus on aesthetics. An interactive component using the Web to provide podcasts, music, pictures and interaction across living rooms is also included. (visit www2.lifeway.com/livingroomseries).

Dale Lewis now mans the front desk at the EFCA (The Evangelical Free Church of America) National Office in Minneapolis, MN. He was the graphic designer/pre-press production artist for over twelve years before being asked to step into this new role. Prior to that, he was the publications manager at his alma mater, Northwestern College in St. Paul, MN in the public relations office as well as the adviser to the college’s yearbook. He's a director/actor/writer for the Hope Church (Oakdale, MN) adult drama worship team and was the senior editor of the church newsletter. He's also written two collections of poetry, “Whispers of Assurance” and “On Life: Constant Communion Without Ceasing” as well as a devotional entitled “Eternal Education.” He and his family live in Oakdale, Minnesota.