While recently on a retreat to the Abbey of Gethsemani in Trappist, Kentucky, I visited the guest library looking for some heavy-duty theological works. Quite by accident, I happened to notice this cute little book that someone had left laying out on a table. The full title reads: "Serenity: A Companion for Twelve Step Recovery." I'm personally not involved in any of the twelve step programs, but I know a few people who are, and they have nothing but praise for how well they work.

The Serenity New Testament comes complete with the Twelve Steps made famous by Alcoholics Anonymous. However, it just does not reiterate them, but cross-references every single step with multiple biblical references that speak about the particular topic. For instance, Step Two: "come to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity" is cross-referenced with a passage from the Gospels: "Everything is possible for him who believes" (Mark 9:23).

The format is very simple, and extremely easy to follow. The Twelve Steps are listed in the very front of the book, with a short commentary and a long list of verses (with page numbers!) that you can look up. Or, you can go directly to the New Testament, Psalms & Proverbs, and read the various books in a normal fashion. But unlike a typical Bible, the authors have highlighted all the verses that speak directly to the Twelve Steps, and have placed the step numbers next to the verses. For example: when you read the ninth chapter of Mark's gospel, you will see "Step 2" placed next to Mark 9:23.

There is also a chain reference system, so that you can go through the New Testament, Psalms & Proverbs reading all the verses that pertain to the particular step your interested in. So when you read Mark 9:23 there will be a note in the margin telling you a page number where you can find another verse reference for Step 2.

The authors wisely chose the New King James Version for the basis of their work, which is far easier to read and understand than the early 17th century English of the old King James Bible. There are also lots of helpful notes spread throughout the Bible passages, helping the reader to understand the close relationship between the Steps and Word of God.

While I have more than enough Bibles in my home, I've never come across one as fascinating as this little gem. I seriously considering buying a case of Serenity New Testaments to have on hand for giving to people who could use a little encouragement.

An outstanding New Testament. Highly recommended, whether or not you're in a Twelve Step program.

When I first got into the 12 step program in 1990 12 step literature only took me so far in my program and I needed more or else I was in danger or returning back to active addiction. In 1993 the company I worked for went out of business and we had to take all of our personal items from our office. In my office were certificates of awards,personal and family pictures gifts from friend and many others items of importances. The only thing I made sure I took with me the day I left was this book. Without Serenity and the divine inspired wisdom that it imparts I know I probally would have returned back to active addiction and would have died. If you are in the 12 step process get Serenity it will give you a true picture of what recovery is all about and like me it might save your life.

I will never again think that AA is a program for recovery apart from God's holy word! This Bible makes it so very clear that God directed Bill Wilson and the founders many years ago (1934) to be instruments of healing power. God is the Healer, Jesus the Great Physician and the one in recovery stands in awe of miracles in his or her own life. That is of course, if one follows the Steps "one day at a time". I will always be a recovering co-dependent. Pleasing people was what I was taught to do from childhood. I thank the counselor who guided me right down the Twelve Step path. Please add this book to your library. Everyone needs healing from time to time. God bless you.

I'm glad I bought this Bible even though I have a lot of them already because it has several unique features, like the focus articles sprinkled through and alternate translations of some words at the bottom of the page. The footnotes are really easy to uderstand and interesting. It's also pleasant to look at, good type setting and paragraph form in the book passages.

This Bible is the answer to my learning problems. It made it easy for me to memorize and understand how the Bible fit into my life and how I could raise my children in GODS love and understanding. I enjoyed the ties to modern times and modern problems. The only thing I would add would be book tabs so new users could find them quicker. Overall this would be an exellent gift for a teenager or young adult going to collage. Enjoy this book as much as I have and may GOD bless and keep you and your family from harm.