Hagee (Not by Bread Alone) goes full tilt in this simplistic Bible study, sharing the homespun advice she considers necessary for women to develop godly maturity. She not only functions as Chief of Staff for husband John Hagee's television ministry and leader of women's ministries for Cornerstone Church in San Antonio; she is also the founder of the Woman of God seminars, which began at Cornerstone. Clearly, Hagee designed this 12-week study as a blueprint for churches across the nation to sponsor their own Woman of God seminars. Included are action points, facilitators' instructions, participant registration forms and even extra assignments. Supporters of a more "spirit-filled," charismatic bent may relish Hagee's emphasis on the experience of living as a Christian woman. Many will also appreciate her frankness on sexual issues, gynecological questions, courtship, working women and goal setting. While she has good intentions, many of her admonitions come across as condescending and almost childishly simple. For example, when one parishioner came to Hagee in distress over her lack of finery for church, Hagee glibly replied that the woman only needed to ensure that her dress was clean and well-pressed, as though that also settled the underlying issue of her self-esteem. With Hagee's prayerful heart and extensive ministry experience, it is regrettable that this work frequently reads as a mishmash of trite thoughts haphazardly tossed together. (Nov.)
