The history of nations is a history of haves and have-nots, and as we approach the millennium, the gap between rich and poor countries is widening. In this engrossing and important new work, eminent historian David Landes explores the complex, fascinating and often startling causes of the wealth and poverty of nations. The answers are found not only in the large forces at work in economies: geography, religion, the broad swings of politics, but also in the small surprising details. In Europe, the invention of spectacles doubled the working life of skilled craftsmen, and played a prominent role in the creation of articulated machines, and in China, the failure to adopt the clock fundamentally hindered economic development. The relief of poverty is vital to the survival of us all. As David Landes brilliantly shows, the key to future success lies in understanding the lessons the past has to teach us - lessons uniquely imparted in this groundbreaking and vital book which exemplifies narrative history at its best.

For many years, the body of Christ around the world has been subject to criticism owing to many Christians’ attitudes toward finances and the doctrine of financial prosperity. But where have things gone wrong? Many whom God has entrusted with money have used it to advance their selfish interests at the expense of the advancement of the kingdom of God and society at large. While being financially prosperous is not sinful in itself, the motive behind the desire for money and its subsequent use often conflicts with biblical standards. The Bible makes a clear distinction between Mammon and God. Both are spirits, and both influence the motive, source, and use of finances. A new breed of kingdom-minded Christians who can be entrusted with heaven’s resources must emerge. This book will surely uncover the true source and purpose of finances for Christians who desire to extend the kingdom of God on earth. In this book, you will learn: The difference between kingdom-driven prosperity and Mammon-driven prosperity. The perils and dangers of Mammon in the body of Christ. The kingdom-centered financial practices of a twenty-first century church. The blessings of giving and the correct ways to give to God and society. The biblical source of sustainable wealth for a thriving life and ministry.

The history of the African continent covers thousands of years, thousands of kilometres and millions of peoples speaking hundreds of languages. There are countless stories, dances, poems and songs. They tell the history of the great ancient civilisations, such as the Egyptians; the powerful kingdoms in West Africa of Mali and Songhai; the trading cities of Timbuktu and Gao; and enormous structures, such as the pyramids and Great Zimbabwe. This book looks at the great civilisations of the African continent and the people within these complex societies. The Black History series brings together a wide range of events and experiences from the past to promote knowledge and understanding of black culture today.

There have been all sorts of relatives since the time of Cain and Abel, Joseph and his elder brothers, Laban against Jacob as well as Esau and Jacob. As things turned out, David wished his nephews, the sons of Zeruiah, one of his sisters, had not joined his army. They had a lusty craving for violence without reverence for God and immediate reality, whereas David reverenced God above anything else. You and I need God to shield us from the troubles that relatives constitute. Some are more of a curse than a blessing.