Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Mandisa

Last week I got a package in the mail from Diane, our lovely and wonderful resource manager at LPM. When I opened the package I was so excited to find Mandisa Hundley's new book, Idol Eyes. Most of you probably know that Mandisa sang on the Living Proof Live praise team before she became a contestant on American Idol. I started reading the book on Saturday and Curt had to rip it out of my hands to get me to do anything else. I finally got to finish it last night. I loved it! Here's why...

Every question I had, she answered. I'm not a big American Idol fan (although I was while she was on the show), but when I've watched it I've always wondered about the behind-the-scenes process. Now I feel so in the know!

Mandisa took the opportunity to be very transparent about her life and her walk with the Lord. I imagine it wasn't easy to open up about her deepest struggles, disappointments, and traumas. However, she is going to be rewarded with some major plunder! (Breaking Free, anyone?)

The pages are peppered with Scripture and filled with things God was showing her throughout her journey. I was challenged, blessed, and built up reading so much truth. If I were not yet a believer and I picked up this book, I would come face-to-face with God's love and care for me, with the fact that He undeniably answers prayers, and with the message of His salvation. She communicates her faith gently and thoroughly.

I got to marvel at the wonderful works God has done through our sister Mandisa. It was so exciting to see how God numbered her steps toward American Idol and how He's using her now. It reminded me that God has a plan for me, too. And whatever that plan may be, the highs and lows are designed to bring Him praise and to develop His character in me.

Thanks, Mandisa! Please excuse me now, I have to go find my "Mandiva" t-shirt.

75 Comments:

At July 3, 2007 at 12:35 PM , Blogger Stefani Linn said...

I am buying that book and her CD! She should be supported in her honesty and her desire to share her faith in an environment like American Idol!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 12:47 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hello Amanda,
I am not an American Idol watcher but I am an avid reader! Your description of the book has definitely put it on my list. I am so excited to hear that there is a book like this out there that many who do not know our precious Saviour may pick up and read it because they are Idol Fanatics.

I want to read it just for that reason, there are so many Idol fans out there that this seems like a good 'jumping off' point for evangelism, especially for someone like me who doesn't watch but could 'dish' with some insider info and then lead into how Mandisa is a believer and go from there :D.

Have a great day!
Debbie in CA

 
At July 3, 2007 at 12:52 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Okay -- this is the second time I've heard about this book. I need to bite the bullet and read it now! Guess I'll read it on the train to work (but first I have to read the other one I just started)...Thanks for sharing!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:03 PM , Blogger Darla said...

Hi Princess AJ! Glad to hear from you this time...

I love Mandisa!! Loved her with the LPL worship team, and with Toby Mac too! But I love her cd although it is short..but "Its only the World" is an awesome view of how to walk through this world and just remember our home is in heaven..we are truly on a journey here to get there...Princess Mandisa God is truly using you to touch hearts!

Love to all LPM, keeping you all in my prayers through all the flooding and disasters that seem to be around you all..All eyes on Jesus! (me too!)

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:08 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I want a Mandiva t-shirt!! Angela Hunt (who wrote the book with her) is one of the best novelists EVER. Love her! Can't wait to read the book!

Amanda--I will get Is That All He Thinks About? to you and your mama in Thursday's mail.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:18 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I'll be reading that book for sure. I've had reservations about American Idol for a very long time now. It'll be good to hear a Christian's perspective who has actually participated in the show and KNOWS what happens there and I'm interested to know if she talks about the American Idol mindset. Since I'm doing Daniel right now, I'm keenly aware of the "Babylonian" mindset in our culture. I'm just wondering if American Idol fits in with that. The name of the show, itself, sends shivers up my spine. I DON'T want to be legalistic, though, so that's why it's good that Mandisa wrote the book. I can't wait to read it.

love you siesta,
Kristi

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:20 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

What an awesome book! Mandisa's honesty and tranparency always pointed you to the Savior. I am looking forward to her CD.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:37 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

If the blog readers click on "Idol Eyes" they can read the first chapter of the book. I'm at work so i can't read all of the chapter but will do so when i get home. The few pages I've read are great. It WILL BE one of those "can't put it down" books.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:40 PM , Blogger Faith said...

I don't watch AI and hadn't heard of her, but sounds like I'm gonna need to get my hands on this book! :) Thanks for the review!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:44 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I not an American Idol reader either but your description mde me want to read it as well! While you were reading that book I was reading your Mom's book "Feathers From My Nest" I was so sad when I was done I wanted to keep reading it! She had me laughing and crying, I learned so much! How Blessed you are to have a Mother who loves you so much!
Blessings!
Suzi

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:45 PM , Blogger Emmy said...

I just bought the book! I loved what your Mom said in the forward...I can't wait to read it! I LOVE her voice...and her face seems to radiate Jesus! It is so exciting to see what God has already done in her life...and is continuing to do! God Bless you Mandisa!!! Emmy : )
(Has her cd come out yet?)

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:56 PM , Blogger connorcolesmom said...

I love to read and that book sounds like a must!!
I am looking forward to it!!
Thanks for the info!
God bless,
Kim

 
At July 3, 2007 at 1:59 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thanks so much for sharing Amanda!! My teenage girls are huge fans of Mandeesa and they get a kick out of watching American Idol. They have really enjoyed picking out who the Christian's are and cheering them on. I'll have to say they were happy for Mandeesa not winning, because they thought God had more for her than a contract with A.I. I will be sure to pick up her new book for us to read. Thanks for all your hard work!!
Love and Blessings, Kim c

 
At July 3, 2007 at 2:03 PM , Blogger Shelly said...

I keep hearing about this book. I must add it to the collection of mental purchases that need to be made!

What a testimony she has allowed her life to be to the sufficiency of His grace and power. I love it.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 2:08 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I read it in 2 1/2 hours!!! LOVED IT!!! I am passing it around to my sistas at church!!!! God is being glorified in this book and Mandisa's life!!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 2:23 PM , Blogger Susan B. said...

Thanks, AJ, for filling us in on such a good book. I just glanced at the opening chapter, and I believe this is a MUST READ! I absolutely love her new song, Only the World. It is the latest addition to my i-pod. What a wonderful, uplifting song! I have loved hearing her sing since the Beloved Disciple CD. Thank you, God, for role models like Mandisa!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 2:25 PM , Blogger Little Steps Of Faith said...

Yea, I left the lyrics to " Only the world" a couple blogs ago...I guess God is gonna do something big with that girl:-)
I love that song, I mean its phenomenal, reminds me a lot of Janna Long from Avalon.

Anyways, I didn't know she was apart of the praise team, that is really cool. Look how God just continues to USE people:-)

As far as getting the book, um, I have about a dozen Beth Moore books, and have only gotten through like 2, in like 3 years, so I might get the book but probably wont read it until 2030:)

:-) Your Siesta in Christ,

angie

 
At July 3, 2007 at 2:33 PM , Blogger lilscrapper said...

Last season was the first time I watched AI all the way through and was cheering on the Christians. I agree that God probably has more for them (though who am I to say?) but it is a great way for them to preach Jesus to a TON of folks!

I am looking forward to reading Mandisa's book, and to hearing her upcoming CD.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 3:13 PM , Blogger Patty said...

I really want to read her book! I can't wait to buy her cd. I just love Mandisa. I have a Mandiva shirt, too!! I wore it to the LPM event in Chattanooga a few years ago and I still wear it at times.

Happy 4th of July my Siestas!!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 3:34 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am enjoying this book as well. It's encouraging to read while I am trying to lose weight myself. Mandisa was my favorite from that season.
Blessings,
Tina

 
At July 3, 2007 at 3:34 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey Amanda! That is awesome! :) When do you have time to read!??
I have a question for y'all - my dear, fellow bloggers. Do you, or a friend of your's, work full time, have at least one kid, and are free in Christ? I seriously feel like the process of becoming completely free in Christ is a full-time job. I am not able to have consistent quiet times, be in prayer and word for any length of time, or feel sustained victory while I am at work 40 hrs/week, then come home and have a laundry list of stuff to do after my baby goes to sleep. I just wonder, what is ya'lls secret to your daily life in Christ? Do you get up at 4:30 or 5:00 am to pray and be in the word? I'm not bitter or negative, I am honestly just curious what other woman are doing who are walking in my shoes. I cannot imagine how amazing it would be to not have to work full time. For any mom today who is feeling sick of their house or wishing they could catch a break, be so thankful for where you are at! It is so hard having to be away from my 1 yr.old all week!! He is growing up before my eyes while I am at work! Let me know what you do if you are a prayer warrior, free in Christ, a mom, wife, and work full time. Thanks!!

All my love to the Moores, and to all of the amazing women across the country who lift my spirit and make me smile!!

Jessica - 28 year old mom of Brody, nurse, and wife. :)

 
At July 3, 2007 at 3:48 PM , Blogger Kelly S. said...

LOVED THIS BOOK!!! Can't wait for the CD I have already pre-ordered three copies!! I was only an American Idol fan because Mandisa was on it, and her honesty and transparency in the book is humbling. She is certainly talented enough to win AI, but her rewards will go far beyond any earthly competition.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 4:01 PM , Blogger Kathy said...

Thanks for the book recommendation, Amanda. I asked my sweet husband to try to pick up a copy for me while he is running errands this afternoon. Hopefully I can get it read this week and share it with the sistas in our summer Bible Study group. We are having a great time studying Daniel -- next Monday will be our 5th week. :o)

 
At July 3, 2007 at 4:08 PM , Blogger Ashton said...

I cannot help but share what I have been reading in a book by Ravi Zacharias, "The Grand Weaver". Here is an excerpt:

The day that each person willingly accepts himself or herself for who he or she is and acknowledges the uniqueness of God’s framing process marks the beginning of a journey to seeing the handiwork of God in each life. Trying to mirror someone else’s accomplishments is one thing. Trying to be someone else in distinctive capacity is unhealthy and breeds insatiable hungers. Not everyone is a Bach or an Einstein. But there is splendor in the ordinary. The mother who made the lifebelt is worthy of recognition equal to Bach. Her labor of love is as unique as discovering E = MC2, Einstein’s famous formula. This is why seeing one’s self through God’s grand design is essential to completing the picture for all of creation. We must have a healthy respect for our individuality but also keep a wise distance from it. We have it now, but it is not what we shall be. C. S. Lewis, in his brilliant way, reminds us of this:

Most of man’s psychological make-up is probably due to his body: when his body dies all that will fall off him, and the real central man, the thing that chose, that made the best or worst of this material, will stand naked. All sorts of nice things which we thought our own, but which were really due to a good digestion, will fall off some of us; all sorts of nasty things which were due to complexities or bad health will fall off others. We shall then for the first time, see every one as he really was. There will be surprises.

The Grand Weaver, Ravi Zacharias, 2007 p.30-31

C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity (New York: Macmillan Publishing Company, 1952), 86.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 4:10 PM , Blogger mburkum said...

She was one of my favorites last year - what a beautiful countenance! What a no-holds-barred witness, too.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 4:30 PM , Blogger Toknowhim said...

I loved Mandisa's new book as well. I was cooking dinner, and reading her book at the same time (maybe not such a great idea).

I loved all the behind the scenes information too. But, I think we got to see even further behind the scenes... into the spiritual realm. There was definitely a spiritual battle going on during her time on AI.

Mandisa's book encouraged me to keep fighting my battles (with food or anything else I face).

Blessings, Kim

 
At July 3, 2007 at 5:22 PM , Blogger steph said...

Mandisa is my girl! I followed her throughout the entire season! I am so proud of her for being a standup girl for God!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 5:27 PM , Blogger WicklessWhiffs said...

I love Mandisa, too! Her new song encourages me and makes me so happy! I remember seeing her at a LPL before she was on AI. I was so proud of her when she told Simon she forgave him. I will have to get her book soon.

debbie in jax

 
At July 3, 2007 at 5:38 PM , Blogger P.W.tgt said...

Can't wait to buy her book and support her positive ministry.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 6:26 PM , Blogger Kate said...

I've never even heard of her before, but the book sounds great...may just have to check it out.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 6:35 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I just finished Mandisa's book as well...started it before bed and next thing I knew it was 2 am! I thought she and Angela Hunt (an AWESOME writer) did a fantastic job. I admire Mandisa for being transparent and willing to share her experience and life with us. Do you have any idea how we can write her and encourage her? I would love to email her if you have that info.

Blessings to all of you...have a great holiday.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 6:56 PM , Blogger amy said...

Hi Amanda,

Thanks for the book review. I am also reading a great bio: Stephen Baldwin brother of Hollywood actors Billy and Alec. He became a Christian on 9=11 and is totally sold out to Jesus. It is motivating to read his story. He has a great ministry now and has given up the Hollywood lifestyle to live for Jesus! Would love to hear others book reviews. Blessings,

Amy, mom to terrific two year old
Lily Kate

 
At July 3, 2007 at 7:04 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Amanda,
I am not an American Idol fan either but i am now very intrigued with this book. I am going on vacation next week and will hopefully have some time to read a GOOD book!!

Thanks for the heads up.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 7:16 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I got "Idol Eyes" for my birthday and couldn't put it down!! It was an awesome read! I am so impressed that she was so honest and authentic. I have a great deal of respect for her, and am thankful that she was willing to share her story with the world.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 7:21 PM , Blogger Valarie said...

Oh girl I love me some Mandisa!! Love her voice, love her spirit, love her attitude!! That girl can SANG!!!

I don't think any of us would want to stand before God with any kind of "Idol" title on our resume though! I know God's got MUCH bigger plans for that girl!!

Thanks for sharing your excitement too!!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 7:23 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

LOVE Mandisa....can't tell you how many times I voted for her. I was so thrilled when she sang "Shackles" on Idol. My boys love to get the shackles off their feet in the car (Mandisa's version, of course). Haven't read the book yet but I certainly will! Praise God for the testimony she was and how she believed God to use her on a national stage. Who can't just LOVE Mandisa? Thanks for the book review, AJ. Tootles! Jill

 
At July 3, 2007 at 8:12 PM , Blogger Ann Jones said...

Amanda! oh my goodness , I've been reading Mandisa's book and thought I'd look at the blog to see if I could make a comment! Praise God! What a blessing ! I am already thinking of women I can give this book to. Mandisa is so honest, transparent, brave and humble. Her love for our God is so evident. I was privileged to be at Living Proof San Diego and Fresno. She was AWESOME! (I did notice how Mandisa and the whole Praise Team frantically wrote notes as Beth spoke,just like everyone else.)I know God will use this book to bless many! Go Mandisa!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 8:46 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

YAY Mandisa!! She is a voice of so many great messages for our culture today.

 
At July 3, 2007 at 9:50 PM , Blogger Sweet Tea & Grits said...

Amen! And amen! I got the book and could not put it down! You described it perfectly, Amanda. It is thorough, scripture-filled, and straight from the heart. Loved it!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 10:02 PM , Blogger Unknown said...

I am probably the only American Idol watcher here! I was so disappointed when Mandisa didn't make it the final, final but she was such an inspiration through out the whole process and I have been looking forward to her book and cd. I can't wait to get it!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 10:05 PM , Blogger Shell in the City said...

I look forward to reading Mandisa's book. Sounds like a great read & witness tool!! From what I understand, the new Idol Jordin Sparks is a Christian. Being on Idol is a great platform for believers!! Thanks for the book tip!!

 
At July 3, 2007 at 10:13 PM , Blogger Pam said...

Thanks for giving a shout out to dear Mandisa. She inspired my young girls who were so sad when she got eliminated from American Idol.

We recently read an article about her in a magazine, and can't wait to get her book. Her current single is a regular play on my iPod shuffle as I walk each day.

Hey, where's my Mandiva shirt? I think I need one of those : )

 
At July 3, 2007 at 11:02 PM , Blogger Speaking Thru Me Ministries said...

I love, love, love those kinds of stories - it really encourages me too in my walk of ministry. I just want to make Him proud and my life be as worship to Him!!!

Loving big and living loud!

leigh

 
At July 3, 2007 at 11:31 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Weeellll, I read the first chapter your link provided, and all I can say without tripping over my tongue is "I AM GOING TO READ MANDISA'S BOOK, no matter what!!!!" Thank you so much for the heads up. I had heard and read about it, but you have pointed me to a must-read!

Ellen

 
At July 4, 2007 at 1:37 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wow! My last comment was so horrible I must have been a sleep when I typed it! I just had to re-write it for myself.Sorry!
I'm not a huge American Idol fan either but, the way you described that book makes me want to go pick up a copy! Great now I'm breaking the rules but I just had to tell you while you were reading that book I was reading your Mom's book "Feathers From My Nest" I LOVED it! I couldn't put it down! I laughed and cried and was so sad when I finished it I felt like I lost my friend! Melissa and Amanda you are so BLESSED to have a Mother who loves you so much! Well, take care!
Blessings,
Suzi

 
At July 4, 2007 at 6:44 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Amanda -
Your words, "the highs and lows are designed to bring Him praise and develop His character in me" really screamed loud to me this morning. Sometimes those "lows" hurt, huh? But I know, and was reminded fresh by you, that He DOES have a purpose and will use those hard lessons to mold me into the image of His Son if I allow Him. Whew! Good stuff!
Thanks for all you do!
Have a great 4th!!

 
At July 4, 2007 at 8:11 AM , Blogger su said...

Amanda,
I didn't watch AI but after reading your post and all the comments, now I wish that I had. I've got a plane trip coming up - sounds like a good book for it.

 
At July 4, 2007 at 9:02 AM , Blogger Profbaugh said...

Okay, I have to admit it and come clean here. I LOVE American Idol. I've watched every season, except for the first, which I've since caught in reruns (Idol Rewind). So, unlike many who've responded here, I did watch Mandissa and was devastated when she was knocked out of the competition so early. . but that's happened with others I've liked as well like Melinda this season.

I'm also a geek when it comes to CDs. I read the inside inserts from cover to cover. What's interesting is just how many of the AI finalists in their thank yous have given credit first and foremost to Christ (check the inserts--Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken, Kimberly Locke--just to name a few) Blew me away when I realized that God has actually using this show since the beginning. And yes, I'm bothered by the title, too. But God works in strange ways sometimes!!

So, I'm going to buy the book and read it this summer. Thanks, Amanda for the suggestion. I can't wait to "dig in!"

~Cheryl

 
At July 4, 2007 at 10:12 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am a Mandisa fan so I had to get the book and read it shortly after it came out. It was an encouragement to me. I loved the "Beth Moore" moments as I called them. She would break away from the story to give wonderful scriptural insight and focus on the spiritual side of things. I loved her honesty with her struggles.

 
At July 4, 2007 at 12:46 PM , Blogger Shellie Paparazzo said...

I never watch American Idol. I heard that the judges totally humiliate most of the contestants. I am definitely going to have to read that book along with all the other hundreds of books I need to read.

 
At July 4, 2007 at 12:59 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wow, Amanda! Thanks so much for the link to the first chapter of Mandisa's book. I just read it and it was fantastic! I, like you, couldn't help but be encouraged by God's ordering her steps to AI (and beyond!) and reminded of His plans for me, too! I LOVED how she talked about how God used that season at Lifeway in data entry to prepare her for things yet to come--He is so faithful and SO amazing!

 
At July 4, 2007 at 6:57 PM , Blogger God's girl said...

I cannot wait to read this book. I cannot wait for the CD to come out either! I am going to pre-order it. Thanks for sharing!
Blessings,
Angela

 
At July 4, 2007 at 8:44 PM , Blogger LOVE, MERCY AND GRACE...GOD'S GRACE said...

Well, I can't wait to go and get this book!! I love to read; I just don't get a chance to do so. But I've got a week of vacation coming up soon so that will be perfect! Thanks, Amanda for sharing with us about Mandisa's book!! I too watched AI and was so disappointed that Mandisa left as quickly as she did...but "..all things work together for good to them that love God and are called according to His purpose"...
Beth in NC

 
At July 4, 2007 at 10:18 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I have read the book already and LOVED it. I cried with her during her low times and cheered with her during her good times. I do related to eating issues she talked about in this book! I can hardly wait to hear her new CD!

 
At July 5, 2007 at 9:16 AM , Blogger Edwards Family said...

I was so proud of her on American Idol.....my friends and I acted like we "knew" her because we had listened to her sing live at Living Proof conferences.

I will never forget when Simon asked "what was that song?" as if he was making fun of her...on Shackles....

All I could think of was "Oh Simon....you need to get that song.."

Looks like I will be heading to Borders today..:~)

 
At July 5, 2007 at 10:54 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Siesta AJ,
I bought the book yesterday and started it. I love it so far! I am no longer watching AI, although I did watch it all the time before I came to The Lord.
It's nothing against AI, just something I am honoring GOD with in my personal walk with HIM.
However, I remember the way Mandisa was "slammed" that night and I remember thinking how horrible as I struggle with my weight as well.
It is such an assault of the enemy that many of us deal with.
You guys remember to pray for those of us who want The HOLY SPIRIT'S power of self-control in this "wigged" out area (as Siesta Mama Beth would say).
HE can do what HE says HE can do!
Glory to HIS AWESOME NAME!!!
Your Siesta and HIS daughter,
Teri S in VA

 
At July 5, 2007 at 11:24 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I bought the book before I went on a mission trip to an Indian reservation in NM. I read it completely in two days. I was very encouraged to strive to be a transparent Christian woman, which helped me on the mission's trip. The world is longing for those who are real and not a phony. Mandisa has helped those see the need to be a real Christian not only at Church. I say "Yeah for the team" Mandisa makes us proud!!!!

 
At July 5, 2007 at 11:48 AM , Blogger pinkmommy said...

I am running out right now and getting her book! Can't wait for her CD to come out!

 
At July 5, 2007 at 1:17 PM , Blogger Kristi Stewart said...

I have my "VOTE FOR MANDISA" shirt and I STILL wear it faithfully. I saw the book at the store the other day and sat down and practically read the whole thing. I was afraid they were going to kick me out! What a testimony!

Kristi
Knoxville

 
At July 5, 2007 at 2:12 PM , Blogger THE SMITHS said...

I lover her song, "Its Only The World"...

 
At July 5, 2007 at 2:23 PM , Blogger valerie said...

Amanda, I really appreciate the information on Mandisa's book. I read the first chapter and am very anxious to purchase a copy.
I was a Mandisa fan all the way when she was on AI. I've been to several Living Proof Conferences and have heard her sing and minister. She's amazing!
I felt so bad for her when Simon said what he did. I just can't imagine anyone being that cruel.
Even when I was young, it just killed me to hear anyone make fun of someone and hurt their feelings. It really just shows their ignorance and their insecurities when they do that.
Anway, I can't wait to read the book and I'm so thankful Mandisa is secure in the Lord and knows He holds her future.

 
At July 5, 2007 at 3:16 PM , Blogger AbbyLane said...

love her. love her heart. love her smile. can't wait to read book. :)

 
At July 5, 2007 at 5:05 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I liked watching Madisa on Idol. The way she handled herself and also shared her faith through song were inspiring. Thanks for the review of her book

Kara

 
At July 5, 2007 at 8:25 PM , Blogger The Best Decade said...

Thank you, thank you, thank you for linking the first chapter of Mandisa's book to this blog! I am now half way through the book and hoping to finish it tonight! There are so many things in this book that pertain to me and the waiting that the Lord has me in--He is speaking volumes to me!!
We must all be agreement that her first record is recognized not only in the Christian awards but also in the world's arena as well. To God be the glory!

 
At July 5, 2007 at 9:17 PM , Blogger Sandy said...

Just wanted to make sure ya'll had a chance to check out LB's post
about Beth's hair, and make sure Beth's hairstylist knows the contribution she's making to Kingdom work! :-)

Love the blog, siestas!

 
At July 5, 2007 at 9:38 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I can't wait to read her book. My sister was on American Idol with Mandisa and I've heard a lot about the behind the scenes aspect of it all. We had my sister lifted in serious prayer when she went through it all. To God be the glory because she was struck sick and voted off before the top 12 and it was because God had different plans for her. At the time it seemed so bad and she was devistated but quickly God revealed his plan. She is still working at her career and using it to bring glory to His name by being open about her experience and sharing the love and plan of God with others. God has really opened doors for ministry. It just reminds me how God can turn something bad into such good.

 
At July 5, 2007 at 9:41 PM , Blogger jenmom said...

I just had my "birthday date" with my husband. We went out to eat and then went to Barnes and Noble, and guess what book I purchased? You got it, Idol Eyes! My family and I are huge American Idol fans and we love Mandisa! I can not wait to read her book. I would not have known about her book if I hadn't been reading this blog!

 
At July 6, 2007 at 5:58 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am an AI watcher and was watching live the night she responded, as Jesus would have, to Simon! I wish I could thank her for the wonderful example that was for me and my kids!! My family and I have loved her ever since. I had seen her in Raleigh, NC a couple of years ago with Living Proof Live, so we knew the connection to Beth. When she sang "Shackles" on AI we all went crazy! I have her knew single on my Ipod. My kids and I know every word. Can't wait to get the book. Love you Mandisa.

 
At July 6, 2007 at 7:19 AM , Blogger Brandy Brow said...

You ought to sign up with Amazon's associate program and insert Mandisa's book into your post for people to click through.

I want to check it out now. Thanks for blogging about it.

Brandy of The Building Brows

 
At July 6, 2007 at 9:09 AM , Blogger Melle said...

I tell you what I love and admire Mandisa more every time I come into contact with something she is doing or has done. I will definately read her book! Also, just yesterday, I was forwarded a link to her My Space page where she has posted some sneak peaks at her new songs on her upcoming CD. "God Speaking" is absolutely incredible! They all are really, but, this one gets you to the core. It is so powerful and full of truth. I encourage you to take a listen if you get a chance.
God's Blessings!

 
At July 6, 2007 at 1:42 PM , Blogger Unknown said...

I have it on hold at the library...can't wait to read it. Must be popular...all the copies were checked out!
I wish her good luck and God's blessings.

 
At July 6, 2007 at 2:13 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dear Siestas,
I have heard from Nicole, and she has been angry, fallen back into her old ways and away from God. She just picked up the Healing Scriptures and Armor of God today. This is not her request, but mine: Please continue to pray for her healing physically and spiritually and for the Lord's protection over her.

I firmly believe that all of your prayers are why she checked her e-mail today and got the Scriptures. Pray she uses them and that she turns to the Lord in confession and repentance, and surrenders her will to His perfect will for her life. If you are willing to intercede for her, please pray for her and bind and loose accordingly. Thank you, dear siestas! We are fighting for the life of another siesta!

God bless each of you! With love to the 3 Moore Musketeers and all of LPM, thank you for your prayers, too.

 
At July 6, 2007 at 7:06 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Finally someone who's read the book! I bought it the moment I saw it on the shelf without even worrying about the price, which is highly unusual for this coupon-clipping mom. I read it in a matter of days, then searched for somebody to talk with about Mandisa. As Sista Beth says, "I must not be getting out enough" because nobody remembered season five. Having said all that, let me continue with a big shout-out that I loved this book too! So tenderly written & painfully honest. I love Sista Mandiva and I pray she will continue to see God's hand in her life as she sings praises to His name with those anointed vocal chords. Oh, to let out of the mouth what is in the heart and for it to come out pleasing to the ear. That is indeed a miracle!

 
At July 7, 2007 at 1:56 AM , Blogger amy lozano said...

Oh my goodness. I am beginning to think I may never blog a day in my life. I just finished with a comment that, i have to admit, i was pretty proud of. and in the blink of any eye - it disappeared from the page. never to return. eek. the sad part is... its not the first time this has happened. If this time doesnt work, siestas, i'll talk to you in heaven. :-) I was sooo happy to see the subject matter of this blog was Mandisa! Love her, love her voice and, i have to admit, love to watch ai! Hated when she was voted off! I noticed when she was introduced during the top 24 programs that she always did the "Im Believing God" hand motions when they said her name. It always thrilled me because, yes, i had already done the BG study and felt like me and Mandiva had a thang goin! you know, like a secret handshake or something. Anyway, always wondered if Beth had ever talked to Mandisa or if Beth even know all of the hullabulu that went on , on the ai website concerning M voicing her support of Beth and her teaching. Well, I guess now I know the rest of the story. Didnt realize until I was in B&N the other day and picked up M's book and stood there and freely (yes it's a pun) read a few pages of M's book and found out about the LPL praise team, etc. I didn't get the book yet because I had toooo many other pending things to read - btw, dont yall think that you get smarter when you walk into a B&N - it just smells so smart in there! BUt, i do plan to get it and read it soon. I could tell by the freely read pages that it will be an i cant put it down book!

Heres hope-in this sends!

amy

 
At July 7, 2007 at 8:56 PM , Blogger Profbaugh said...

Well, I just finished reading "Idol Eyes" and it was everything and more that you promised, Amanda. What a testimony!!!

Folks you have to read this book. You'll be challenged. You'll be captivated. And most of all you'll be inspired.

~Cheryl

 

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