cover image Praise in the Presence of God

Praise in the Presence of God

Jack W. Hayford, Charles F. Stanley. Thomas Nelson Publishers, $14.99 (400pp) ISBN 978-1-4041-0083-1

Hayford, a pastor, author and composer of hundreds of hymns and praise choruses (including the popular evangelical song ""Majesty""), draws from over 30 of his books for this daily devotional. The theme is praise, which Hayford says ""not only exclaims God's worthiness"" but ""invokes his daily mercies, grace, and power into our lives."" And speaking of exclamations, they're everywhere; Hayford's writing style is heavy on exclamation points, numbered arguments and biblical exposition, with a curious absence of storytelling to bring the message home. However, this is a beautifully designed gift book, with an embossed cover, ribbon marker and lovely color illustrations throughout.