"The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointedme to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me tobind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedomfor the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaimthe year of the LORD's favorand the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion — to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair."~fromISAIAH 61 Bible verse for this Blog
APOLOGY to READERS who followed a SEARCH to HERE & didn't find it
On July 18, 2017, I drafted almost 3000 blog posts that I had published since 2008 when I began blogging, rather than edit each one. So if you clicked here from somewhere else and ended up with the post unavailable or error, I am sorry but this is why. It'd be too much work for me to go back and fix them. There's an explanation on7/19/17as I'm still learning.
Back in August, Lysa TerKeurst released and launched her newest book "Uninvited..." and Proverbs 31 Ministry announced that this was going to be their fall Online Bible Study, so more than anything I wanted to be a part of this and read yet another one of one of my favorite author's amazing books, knowing full well "Uninvited" would be another best selling book of hers. I chose this book based on how Lysa, the author, seems to speak personally to me and touches me deeply in every one of her books that I've read, because she writes so honestly and her vulnerability tends to help me glean from her life experiences, struggles and ways she finds answers in God's Word that will point me in the right direction, giving me tools to grow. This book does not fail. In fact, that is part of the reason it has taken me this long to write my review, added to my transition of returning to home after 20 yrs. in Mexico and all the situations I've encountered since choosing to read this book.
From the title, "Uninvited..", I did not think this book would be one for me, although "...living loved..." and the rest, seemed more like it might interest me. I really did not understand why "uninvited" was her title until I caught that this was dealing with the roots of rejection. Her personal stories, as always, shows how Lysa deals or dealt with this in her own life or others close to her and overcame, giving me a reason to pay closer attention and look more deeply into my own life.
It could not have come at a better time for me, but also an inopportune time for me to have time to read. {not an excuse, just the truth} So I was unable to read right away as I normally do and participate along with the Online Bible Study. I was less than half way when I made the move home from Mexico and finally I have been able to sit down and read the Kindle version. I certainly have dealt with my share of rejection, being a people pleaser.
Book Description:
"The enemy wants us to feel rejected . . . left out, lonely, and less than. When we allow him to speak lies through our rejection, he pickpockets our purpose. Cripples our courage. Dismantles our dreams. And blinds us to the beauty of Christ’s powerful love.
In Uninvited, Lysa shares her own deeply personal experiences with rejection—from the incredibly painful childhood abandonment by her father to the perceived judgment of the perfectly toned woman one elliptical over.
With biblical depth, gut-honest vulnerability, and refreshing wit, Lysa helps readers:
Release the desire to fall apart or control the actions of others by embracing God-honoring ways to process their hurt.
Know exactly what to pray for the next ten days to steady their soul and restore their confidence.
Overcome the two core fears that feed our insecurities by understanding the secret of belonging.
Stop feeling left out and start believing that "set apart" does not mean "set aside."
End the cycle of perceived rejection by refusing to turn a small incident into a full blown issue.
I could not have been more wrong about this book not being for me. Each chapter became my new favorite. Each one of the 16 Chapters spoke louder and louder to my heart and my spiritual condition. And the Bonus chapter "What's It Like to do Life with Me" assessment along with "Corrective Experience Chart" as well as the rest of the last portion of this book, go far beyond in speaking to the reader like no other book of hers has with me. I appreciate her personal "Note" to us but each chapter is like a personal note or time spent with a dear soul friend working through our "stuff" together. No, it's not meant to replace a professional counselor, yet this self-help book digs deep into God's Word and helps us apply much to our own life and situations. One of the biggest bonuses for me was seeing how to change our experiences in our life and our past, whether it's rejection or something else that hurt us, that damaged us, that left us "feeling" left out, less than and lonely"; which can inflict more on our relationships today if left unresolved, so we can come to fully grasp what it looks like to "Live Loved" - turning our rejection into redemption; our messes into His miracle in the Masterpiece He is refining us to be. Lysa has gone a step beyond in this book for me! So much so, I am doing her DVDs of this book, which are so beautifully done in the Holy Land and I love this added touch and also I purchased for Christmas her Study Guide to do this entire book all over again with these added resources. I have felt, as Lysa even writes, that indeed she has come along side me, "taken my hand as a trusted friend" to help me "enter a place of powerful healing and a new perspective."
"Uninvited is the beautiful reminder you need to believe you are destined for a love that can never be diminished, tarnished, shaken or taken - a love that does not reject or uninvite. With Jesus you are always invited in."
I held off writing this review because, honestly, I was not sure how I could express the impact of this book in the way that it changed me and will change me still. "Uninvited..." is a challenging book filled with scriptural and personal wisdom. I thought when I arrived at Chapter 10 "Ten Things You Must Remember When Rejected" --- which alone makes the book worth getting, that it couldn't get any better, but as I've written each one spoke more and more to me like these: "The Enemy's Plan Against You", "Miracles in the Mess", "I Want to Run Away" (as I have done so often) to "Moving through the Desperate In-Between" and the final chapter (you think) 16 "What I Thought Would Fix Me Didn't" ... and then after the book supposedly has ended all the extras at the end, especially a summation of the Scriptures and "All the Things I Don't Want You to Forget" (which you know is all the highlights and notes you've made or needed)! Excellent!!!
I cannot recommend this book enough.
(even if you don't think "rejection" is your problem)
"Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely"
provokes much thought and reflection
- not at all a light read -
challenges, encourages, uplifts
and above all
draws you into digging deep
into God's Word
and your life.
<><><>
Thank you Lysa TerKeurst
for being brave and bold enough
to write this book and help others once again
in truth, love, honesty, wit and understanding with gentle words
inviting us
to be like the
"Olive Tree"
(what a beautiful analogy)
[image credit: Bible Places]
May we grow through each season we walk through
as you have and share.
Bless you Lysa!
{and sorry to you, your publisher, and BookLook Bloggers for my late review}
So there you have one of my two reviews
(working on my other one)
I received this book through the BookLookBloggers Program
Disclosure: I received this book free from Book Look Blogger's Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
"The Longing in Me - How Everything You Crave Leads to the Heart of God" By Sheila Walsh
To me, one of the marks of a good book, an exceptionally good book which this is, seems to be how well does it resonate in your soul and changes something within you as you read, and as in this one, "leads you to the heart of God". It not only inspires you and strikes a chord deep within, but reading the book helps you "change the way you respond to life's stresses" {boy, do I need this} or life in general, and your perspective is awakened in a fresh way. That's what Sheila's "Longing ..." book is ...
Sheila Walsh not only states in her intro that this is part of her prayer for this book, but that it helps the reader (me, in this case; or you, if you're bold, brave and bright enough to read it) "find the one true Source who can meet your deepest longings so you can change..." and "give you tools to heal from the past and find joy today." And no one can do this as well as Sheila, with her honest and vulnerable style of writing, weaving her own personal life story and testimony, with a well known biblical figure of a man "after the heart of God" - as she walks us through David's life and worst choices, her life and the life of other women, like me and perhaps you, to study the "Longings" and "learn how to channel those to know God more" and help us "determine what to do when we lose our way", as often we do and have yet realizing that "Longings are part of life." ... not just good or evil.
... "We long to be seen. We long to be chosen. We long to be loved. We long to know that we matter." "When those longings are left unmet, what do we do? Where do we go?"
Sheila shows us in 10 chapters that she "believes it is a sacred ache, a longing for the very heart of God" and I couldn't agree more. In fact, Sheila's life story is one I can relate to ever so well and I find myself reading and rereading the parts that sound so familiar and have to pinch myself trying to remember she is writing about her life (or David's) not mine, still she tells it so remarkably well "I get it", which is why it resonates with me every step of the way and each longing or vignette touches my heart in a way that changes me, awakens me and illuminates a light in what use to be darkness or dark moments. So I nod as I read along, knowing that this book is making an impact and a difference in me in ways that only God knows.
Those 10 chapters touch on our longings: the longing to be chosen, the longing to be protected, the longing for what use to be, the longing for control, the longing for your rights, the longing for that one thing you think you need :) - the longing to make everything right, the longing for what would glorify God, the longing to share the grace and mercy we've received from God and the longing for God alone. Each chapter starts out with a Scripture verse and of course, elaborates on a portion of King David's biblical story with the sharing of Sheila's own life experiences, some parts never written about before this book. "The fact is, your longings are built from the blueprint of your needs: for protection, for love, for God. And those needs aren’t going anywhere. You vowed you’d never repeat the same mistakes—yet you find yourself right where you started. What is it that keeps drawing you back into the same old traps?"Sound familiar? well, it sure does to me ... "If you keep reaching out to the wrong people at the wrong times in your own life, "The Longing in Me" will help you understand that your cravings are not the problem. It’s where they lead you that makes all the difference." (parts of the actual book description)
"It seems to me we can never give up longing and wishing while we are thoroughly alive. There are certain things we feel to be beautiful and good, and we must hunger after them." - George Elliot
Both the DVDs and the Study Guide
enhance this book greatly!
I so enjoyed watching Sheila in the beautifully chosen scenes of these DVDS and listening to her speak with us
in the 6 sessions that Study Gateway made available to us during the online study at Faith Gateway.
However, just reading this book alone will help anyone
but especially those hurting from their past
and trying to fill the voids in your life with anything
or
leading you to long for the wrong thing;
to fill what only God can fill
and He will
as
you read this book
Great for individual or small group studies with the Study Guide.
{although I prefer the Study Guides included in the book}
Sheila Walsh
"is known as a powerful communicator, Bible teacher, and bestselling author"
however she goes far beyond this
in this newest release
of heart-wrenching
life experiences
as she is gifted in the art of
retelling parts of the Bible, especially about King David
and making each one come alive and become real for us today
as she applies the lessons to her and our own life
LONGINGS
in a fresh, honest and eye-opening way
that touches your heart and brings
everything you crave to lead
you to the heart of God
I can never say enough about
Sheila Walsh and this book
the lessons that Christ continues to teach her and me
on our life journeys
especially how her honest words help me become more aware
of my "longings" in the past and even now
with a kind healing and peace
that only God can give
and has
as is/was
Sheila's prayer
to receive healing and find joy
which helps me as it did her
to "understand the past", "fully engage in the present"
and "find hope in the future"
with this truth:
THAT "NO MATTER HOW GREAT YOUR LONGING IS FOR GOD
IT WILL NEVER COMPARE TO HIS LONGING FOR YOU!"
I will treasure this book and quite likely return to it often!
especially when I long for God and need to be reminded of how
He longs for me.
{another mark of a good book "returning to read it again",
besides the turned down, well worn pages,
which in a Kindle ebook converts to bookmarks and highlights}
" Disclosure: I received this book free from Book Look Bloggers and Thomas P. Nelson Publishers in return for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
And if you are not totally convinced that this is the book for you to read yet, see this and you can even check out some others linked below that are longer...
"embracing who we are, becoming all God created us to be"
written aMazingly from the heart of
Holley Gerth
which truly is such a personal encouragement from this
best selling writer, certified life coach, speaker
and co-founder of (in)courage
<><><>
I had the added advantage of not only reading simultaneously both books {due to the precious heart of Lori Schumaker who had a giveaway, but also decided to give actual hands-on copies to me, not even the winner} but actually working through the LifeGrowth Guide along with Holley Gerth and other readers through Holley's aMazing Online Book Club and exceptional resources made available on her website. Although the LifeGrowth Guide actually can stand and be read on its own with excerpts from the original "You're Already Amazing" included in it, if you are like me and missed out on reading the first one, it's so much better to read them both together as instructed at the beginning of each "session" of the "LifeGrowth Guide".
There are only 6 sessions in the "LifeGrowth Guide" and the book "You're Already Amazing" actually has 11 chapters plus a "Go Deeper Guide" which makes both of these great for small groups at church or individual or with an actual counselor, although Holley's gifted in "counseling" and the exercises in both show her very qualified expertise plus the heart of a sister in Christ speaking frankly and openly with you throughout her books. She's as real as they come and a genuine kindred spirit that really cares! which shows in her writing in her books and on her blog (and in case you did not know on some very special cards that she's created at Dayspring). These 6 sessions – each with a section in the workbook also have a video session that’s about 10 minutes long are: 1)Who God Created Us to Be, 2) What’s True No Matter How We Feel, 3) Our Amazing Journey with Jesus, 4) God’s Plan for Our Relationships, 5) God’s Purpose for Our Lives, 6) How We Can Thrive for a Lifetime. The LifeGrowth Guide has sections in the workbook to answer specific questions, journal your thoughts and prayers, and do other creative exercises to help you GROW. Each section ends with a part called "Your Life Coach" and that is who Holley has become to so many of us struggling with our self esteem or believing we are aMazing. Her charts, tips, notes and wisdom from her own life and God's Word add so much to this edition.
Holley has gone a step beyond with this new "LifeGrowth Guide" of "You're Already Amazing".
If you were privileged to have read "You're Already Amazing" best-selling book (published in 2012) and participate in the (in)courage online book club of this original one, then you have a definite sense of how Holley dares and empowers you, the reader, to discover our God ordained potential within ourselves then this "LifeGrowth Guide" will move you onward as a wonderful interactive means to engage fully in this process. Either way, reading the "LifeGrowth Guide" with or without having read the original, you'll find new information and more applicable exercises and questions to help you know who God created you to be and become. I believe this book would be ideal for a new believer or a weathered believer, who has yet to grow in ALL the ways of knowing who we are in Christ Jesus and to further develop our abilities, and reaffirm us by reminding us all who we are and encouraging us to become more for ourselves and then for others better.
Reading the "LifeGrowth Guide ~ You're already aMazing" challenged me and stretched me in new ways! Holley writes as if she really is sitting down with us and talking to us individually with her own and other's life examples in a clear, understandable fashion. I cannot say enough good about all Holley has put together to further us in believing that we already are amazing and have all it takes within us to grasp how God sees us and made us.
I requested this book originally from NetGalley from Revell Publishing because I was afraid that I would not be able to afford getting both and I wanted to participate in Holley's Book Club {but as you have read, Lori Schumaker made it possible for me to receive both books in their soft bound edition, which I simply love to page through and hold in my hands with adequate space to journal and make notes or answer.} I will go back to this book as an excellent resource over and over again as well as continue reading at both Holley's and Lori's blogs.
" Disclosure: I received this book free from NetGalley and Revell Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
*You can go back on this blog on "aMazing Mondays" from March - May or search for "Already Amazing" to see links to Holley's and some of what I shared during the Book Club in 2016. "aMazing Mondays" started here because of Holley's books! She and her books are really "aMazing"! I am so sorry that the review of this book and another just as wonderful book is so late (the other will somehow have to be inserted somehow during my summer book club either on Weds. or the weekend so it is not even later). My apologies to these authors and their publishers that gave me review copies but this was out of my control.
{I really meant to publish this review right after the 40 days of Lent}
or like the title
"...DECREASE..."
but you can't even read the cover and the rest of this title
"40 Days of Decrease
A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast."
By Alicia Britt Chole
Book Description: "...40 Days of Decrease guides readers through a study of Jesus’ uncommon and uncomfortable call to abandon the world’s illusions, embrace His kingdom’s reality, and journey cross-ward and beyond."
"40 Days of Decrease... A Different Kind of Hunger. A different Kind of Fast" by Alicia Britt Chole 'is a beautiful invitation to prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection in a more meaningful way than ever before' so this is why after reading a 6 day sampling with You Version reading plans, I chose this book for this past season of Lent ... to really reflect more deeply in the entire experience of the "40 days" leading up to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. I hoped this season of preparation of my heart might be different, with the discipline of reading and participating in these "40 Days of Decrease" which is meant to "guide readers through a study of Jesus’ uncommon and uncomfortable call to abandon the world’s illusions, embrace His kingdom’s realities, and journey cross-ward and beyond" so that I might be "awed" as I read [40fast(dot)com]. {I even subscribed to the author's blog} ... I really hoped I might experience that 'full embrace' as I read in the author's gift of eloquence and thoughtfulness with words ... I wanted what she experienced to be what I might experience minus perhaps the suffering. Perhaps I did not put forth as much effort and intensity as she clearly has in this well documented, researched and thorough book on fasting, lent and "decrease". Her words are poetic and profound. Her insights and deep thoughts are amazing. But for me, it was a bit overwhelming. I guess my "awe" was more in the many facets of her writing and information than the "awe" that I desired during my 40 days. Honestly I have mixed feelings about "40 Days of Decrease" with more of a sense of overload after each day's devotional part of the reading for that day. Perhaps it's just me, but Alicia Britt Chole definitely writes on a higher level than I am at, and I found there is so much 'content', that it was hard for me to simply read, focus and understand. Often I would have to read and then re-read until I could understand what was written. Alicia Britt Chole is definitely a gifted wordsmith and clearly this "40 Days of Decrease" took much research and time as well as a genuine heart of seeking all God has ... she even started off with a very personal prologue of a "Grand Reduction" in her life.
"... Lent had come half a year early. God asked me to fast mental and physical strength. He invited me into holy weakness. I found Jesus there. We often think of Jesus’ fast beginning when He stepped into the Judean wilderness. But the fast actually began three decades earlier when the Glory of heaven was wrapped in plain paper and given as a gift to mankind. The Grand Reduction had begun. Jesus fasted omnipresence and clothed Himself with flesh. He fasted being worshiped by angels and accepted the disregard of man. He fasted the Voice that birthed planets and submitted to the silence of thirty hidden years " ...
{See what I mean!}
{This is fantastically written and quite profound just to tell us of Jesus' great sacrifice and humble beginnings. Or am I missing something much deeper?}
Don't get me wrong. Though I started out with some of my own quirks and complexities, I truly value every day of Alicia Britt Chole's "40 Days...". I just had a difficult time making them mine and reflecting because there was so much in each day. Although I'm sure I highlighted a great portion of the book, when I found myself enlightened by her ever so much. You really have to be in a thinking mode and beyond, this is not light stuff, you need a very studious mode as well. Each day of the "40 Days ..." was packed. I guess I allowed myself to get too bogged down with it all.
I really should have started with the good and then weighed in on the problems I had with reading this after I describe how each day goes. Trust me, there was no "decrease" except the wonderful teaching on what should become less in our lives so that Christ may BE more in us. Alicia Britt Chole put much thought into each day's "fast"; devotion and reading plus an extensive portion of the history of Lent and fasting.
Each day or chapter of "40 Days of Decrease features a devotional based upon Jesus’ life, guidance for reflection, suggested (and occasionally surprising) daily fasts, an inspiring quote for prayerful meditation, an optional and somewhat academic sidebar chronicling the historical development, practices, and images of Lent, and a suggested Scripture reading with journaling space" per the author's own words in her introduction. I probably would have been better off if I had waited on the optional part until a different time. The suggested Scripture at the end of each day basically took us through the Gospel of John sequentially on most days starting with chapter 12. At times this and the quote of inspiration, in my opinion, seem to have just been added. In her actual writing, Chole uses Scripture that goes along with what she is saying ... but the reading in John after all the rest did not really tie into the discussion of that day. On the other hand, the Daily Fasts, were well-connected with the theme of the day's devotion. I thought that in my review I would be able to choose which "fast" was personally the best for me or the most needed, but frankly, they all are. The Reflections really made you stop and examine your own thoughts and helped to prepare you for that day's FAST.
It truly is a challenge that we can pursue in other parts of the year for a week or even a month as she suggests also in her introduction. Alicia informs us that the 40 different fasts are offered "in the hope that collectively they will prepare us to be duly awed by Christ’s resurrection by being duly available to daily crucifixion." Trust me, they were!
I believe that this book is truly profound for a real experience during the 40 days of the sacred season of Lent and preparing our hearts, softening our hearts ... as we enter in to experiencing 'the holiness of loss and less in Jesus’ journey cross-ward,' so that 'our hearts open vulnerably to a greater commitment to love and be loved by the Savior'. Even though I took all of the 40 days and then some to soak in and digest this book, it indeed is a great collection that I can go back to the many exceptional highlights and points, graphs, charts and a formidable dissertation on Lent ... but I really believe that Alicia Britt Chole wanted more for us than just the knowledge gained by her. I believe that she would like to know that we came away from this Lenten experience CHANGED. That our lives somehow were deeply impacted beyond the weaving of her poetic words.
"We are duly thankful, challenged, and inspired by Jesus’ forty-day fast from food in the Judean wilderness. Perhaps we should likewise be grateful, awed, and humbled by His thirty-year fast from praise, power, and potential in Nazareth. It takes a great deal of strength to choose weakness."
THIS IS NOT AN EASY READ
or
for the weak of will power or mind.
"When He calls us to fast strength—when He drafts us into decrease—God’s purposes are clear: "Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD." (Deuteronomy 8:2–3) "To humble us, to test us, to know what is in our hearts . . . such is the sifting power of helplessness. In our daily lives, we may prefer self-reliance. But perhaps utter dependence is the truer friend of our souls "
I find
"40 Days of Decrease..."
to
BE
Simply profound and breath-taking!
I must admit that "fasting" Lent as a project
and
entering this "40 Days of Decrease" as an experience
most definitely was my blessed gain
as I learned and sojourned with Our Savior.
The days during Holy Week were actually my favorites!
Alicia Britt Chole
captured and retold the events
in such a way that I will never see those readings
in the same way.
Alicia Britt Chole
truly has written about
"a different kind of hunger and a different kind of fast"
in such a phenomenal way
even if her chosen compilation was too intense for me
I think all of society would do well
if we would "fast" some of her wonderful suggestions
ranging from apathy to hypocrisy;
addictions to self-confidence;
intimidation to "guarding tombs".
Each one very unique.
When I "fasted" my voice,
the world stood still for that time.
Although I have done this traditionally on Good Friday
this time I truly listened and sensed silence
beholding Jesus in His death.
I will go back to this book again and again
hoping that it will continue to reawaken
the "Awe" of both Majesty and Mystery
in Jesus' Resurrection.
This is not a book to enter in lightly.
I encourage anyone to read this that wants a better understanding of Lent
but also for those who want to really experience a
"different kind of hunger", grow profoundly and BE CHANGED.
I recommend reading the academic portions separately
and focusing on the "fasting"
so that when
"Father God calls us to fast increase, decrease will purify our souls."
I received this book free from the publisher Thomas P. Nelson through the book review blogger's program BookLook Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Some people have a gift of reviewing concisely, I try to give you a true sense of what I encounter as I read and am blessed by the greats like Alicia Britt Chole, even if my review was not as favorable, I was truthful and true to my simple but lengthy way.
"GIRL MEETS CHANGE ... Truths to Carry You Through Life's Transitions"
by
Kristen Strong
Book Description:
"Whether chosen and celebrated--like going off to college or welcoming your first baby--or unexpected and anxiety-inducing--like losing a job or grappling with a broken trust--all change brings stress. Kristen Strong knows about change--especially the kind you didn't choose or expect. What she's fought hard to learn over the years is that change is not something to be feared but something to be received as a blessing from a God who, more often than not, works through change, not in spite of it. Strong has learned to see change not as a grievance but as a grace.'
In this hope-filled book, she shows women how when we follow God's will, we receive blessings of contentment, purpose, and renewed strength. She encourages women to see change not as the end of their story but as the scenery for this part of life's journey. And she offers practical advice for coping with change in every part of life. Anyone who has struggled to adjust to life's transitions will welcome this warm and personal perspective."
"... Every woman needs this inspiring and insightful message."~Holley Gerth
{through the publisher via Net Galley, which means I don't get to keep it, just read it and review it}
(not my personal preference to review books, but it helps me determine if I want to purchase the book, before I do)
Looking at the cover of the book and reading the title alone, would not have persuaded me that this book was for me, however the contents most certainly do and the many highlights and notes. I do like the cover of all the seasons; it's the title with the word "girl" that might not have appealed to me because I don't think of myself as a "girl" still. But when Kristen explained, in her country "girl" charm, I was more apt to accept the term instead of woman. I guess I thought it was meant more for the younger generations. I could not have been more wrong. Just as on her blog, "Chasing Blue Skies", Kristen writes encouragement to anyone needing it, from the spiritually mature or the newbie still trying to figure things out (as we all are) with "... Truths to Carry You Through Life's Transitions" (the rest of the title of this book).
Kristen is authentic as they come and helpful in a way that each of us can relate to and connect. She takes the time in each chapter to teach us through Biblical characters and real life women that have faced "changes" and how each one copes or handles the change. She illustrates through personal experiences and shows us how to be honest and deal with the loss, the why, the unexpected, the difficult, etc. without being pretentious at all. Kristen is real.
I appreciate the sweet way in which she retold Biblical stories that I'm familiar with in such a way to understand her insight and point; a"faith embrace" from Abraham, to Esther, to Joseph, to Ruth and Naomi ... and others (and if you aren't familiar with them, she does such an excellent job of telling their story and giving the Scripture references so you will know them and get it) also the real life women from today that she shares plus herself and her daughter "Faith", because Kristen gets "change" and all the ways that it impacts us. You will feel like you're sitting down and talking with a real friend. My favorite part, besides closing each chapter with a beautiful prayer, was actually the section "How to Be a Friend to the One Going through Change" in the chapter "Because We All Need Friends in Low Places" in the 3rd Part of this book.
Kristen's "Girl Meets Change" is divided into 3 definitive parts or as I see them, as steps:
Part One - Acknowledge: The Change and the Loss
Part Two - Accept: God is Believable
Part Three - Adapt:A Heart that Thrives
... with 3 or 4 chapters in each part. Kristen includes an Appendix after her Epilogue on "Bible Truths that Never Change". Her Conclusion "Changed by Change" is true for each one of us that embrace each change, and have a heart change about change. Kristen offers valuable lessons from her own life and others that have faced "changes". My best takeaways from "Girl Meets Change" personally are: Being honest with God, we give ourselves permission to feel the change and the impact, and get through the change rather than get over it (paraphrased) and "we want to use this change as a vehicle to travel our own little mission fields" as faith embracers. "God brings change to one so she may change many" ... "Change always brings God's invitation to believe His familiar promises." How I have found this and so much more of what Kristen reminds us of, to be true in the CHANGES I face.
"We must know how to ask the right questions during change
so we are most aware of God's purposes."
Kristen sums all this up as she concludes with what God says to us:
..."This new change comes with My same promise of blessing. Accept that this change is a grace not a grievance. Let your heart rest at home in Me, thriving in the knowledge that I'm always looking out for your next best thing." (see below)
And then these as her last profound words:
"Change is a helper - believe it.
Change is a gift - receive it.
Change is a restorer - live it."
Kristen has so many gems that I've highlighted or quoted from her book. I've shared many here on my blog in images that she designed and I've tried to capture as many as I can to help you as her book has helped me see change differently and with courage.
This still stands out the most:
"...Change is an absolute provision of God's Grace. Change isn't something to be feared or dreaded. It's just the next step, His next best thing for you."
I confidently would recommend "GIRL MEETS CHANGE ... Truths to Carry You Through Life's Transitions" to any woman dealing with changes in life (from the simple to complex ones) to find encouragement in a wonderful mentor who understands - Kristen Strong and shares from a heart open to change.
Disclosure of material connection:
I received this book free from the publisher through Net galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
[This book review is long overdue and I apologize for my lateness and doing it so long after the 2016 Change Challenge (kinda out of order). Circumstances and life changes got in my way. For this reason, I have placed it back in order with my previous posts closer to when this event finished and before I "fasted comments" because it desires feedback.]
This was my former BOOK PAGE in the tabs at the top of my blog: which was badly in need of a revise, edited, shortened version ... but I need to keep it somehow preserved for now until I can do that. A record of most of the books I've reviewed because you can be sure I have read many more than I've been able to review.{and I am publishing this later than the post date so it does not appear on my blog}. Most of you have read these reviews and so much more ... or even this page at one time or another.
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CURRENT
BOOK REVIEW
(usually the most recent are listed at the very end of this page)
12-26-2015
"WORHIP CHANGES EVERYTHING:
Experiencing God's Presence in Every Moment of Life"
My Book Reviews are generally posted on Amazon as mazmagi
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***
Originally this PAGE was intended for BOOK REVIEWS but it's a bit of everything BOOK related now.
I've got so many books started in my Kindle for PC but since I'm not able to open my laptop and reading at a public cyber limits me... I am reading some REAL hard copy books... one from Book Sneeze and some others.
HERE'S
some of
WHAT I'M READING
(not anymore, I have moved on since I posted these but they are great ones to read so I left them)
Current Reads are at the bottom now this is from when I began
(1) "BE STILL, Let Jesus Calm Your Storm" by Cherie Hill finished
(2) "Finding Hope in Times of Grief" by Preston and Glenda Parrish
(3) "Beginning at The End" still reading along with her current one
and for BOOK SNEEZE review
(see link below at the very end)
You have to WAIT TO FIND OUT I want this one to be a surprise
I FINISHED READING THESE TWO
(4) "God's Love Letters to You" by Dr. Larry Crabb
along with going back to the original book of his,
"66 Love Letters"
plus
(5) "Waiting on God" by Cherie Hill
then below I share "what I've read "
this year 2011 for reviews, I'm just getting started
*If I can remember this each month, or read Lisa's blog in time (that's where I found out about this at Lisa Notes)(Lisa always shares great NOTES...and so much more from her heart and readings, I will actually do a blog post sharing more about my current books. But I will be doing reviews on 2 of the 3 above. Oh, and you are blessed that this is on my pages this time because there's no comments here (but if you'd still like to leave one you can go back HERE...
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(Jan. 2011)
I am awaiting my FIRST book! I registered and was accepted by BOOK SNEEZE! YEAH!!!!!!! I did not think any publisher would send to me here but I wrote them inquiring and I was told that it will just take longer. I can live with that. (and e-books are even better and faster) but there is nothing like holding a book in your hands and turning the pages as you read. But I will adjust so I can continue reading current books while away from home.
I love to read! My area of concentration with my double major of Elementary Education and Spanish was Library Science... so clearly this is part of me...to LOVE books and read!!!
This past year, I learned that even without a KINDLE that I could receive books via the internet. So I installed Kindle for PC. Every chance I could afford, I started to purchase books to read. Although I prefer to hold an actual book in my hands to reading from a computer screen, I am so thankful that I can get books in English. My wish list was getting so long, that I had to do something.
If you'd like more information about reviewing books, just click the link and read all about it.
I did not choose the best book to start out with... because it's a 365 day devotional. Clearly, I'll have to read more than one a day at first to review and then go back and read again. I chose my first book based on the author. It is one author that I know will bless me daily, so I can't wait. I do think that I may have an earlier copy of this book back in MN... so we'll see.
As I review books, I will be using the BOOK TITLE as the blog post and will add them here so you can see the books that I am reading or reviewing.
Resources forBook Review Bloggers
You need to meet specific requirements from the publisher to be accepted as a book review blogger. Please read the guidelines and terms of conditions for each.
Since this is the first book I've received and blessed to review, I was overly enthusiastic to curl up in the comforts of my reading rocker with a great book in my hands, ready to devour all at once, in order to review it in a timely manner rather than read it as it is intended, day by day. I even like the feel of the texture of the cover and the pages.
I began quickly with January 1st, appropriately entitled "A Clean Slate", reading up to the current day, then I began to skip around to significant days each month, in the lives of people I knew and myself such as birthdays. It gave me a very good sampling of the variety and versatility of this devotional and the style of Billy Graham as a writer, since I knew him as a wonderful speaker drawing many to receive Jesus and equipping us to live for Jesus. You can richly see the more than fifty years of his ministry reflected, but also as a father, husband and just a person seeking more in his faithful walk in simple terms that speak to you, right way you are, offering hope in your valley, keeping my eyes lifted "unto the hills" and focused on God.
Although this should be read one devotion a day, allowing time to meditate on the message and the scripture, there seemed to be a familiarity with some of these stories on the special days I read. I wondered if it was because of the personal touch of each of these stories that I could relate to now better having walked through some valleys and seen the view from the hills or mountaintops.
Then it dawned on me that it was familiar because I had read this devotional daily back in the late 80s when it was first published and I was in a deep valley. The impression and familiarity was still with me after 25 years. His words had marked my life then, as I pray they will refresh me anew once again as I commit to reading this daily for this upcoming year as it is intended to be read. How remarkable that his words still reassure me positively with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and living for Him through his daily reflective stories that hit the point home and even linger after many years. Each one covers a different aspect of our Christian walk and spiritual needs.
This book would be a great asset to anyone's daily reading and would make a wonderful gift to someone searching for answers in the "valleys" of their life or a seasoned believer. It offers hope and faith! This inspirational devotional covers a wide range of topics and scriptures. It's definitely a keeper and well worth the investment to read and preserve daily the words of a great evangelist, who even quotes other greats like D. L. Moody, Martin Luther, and even some hymn writers and others unfamiliar to me but never is the topic highly theological yet gives us much to ponder as we reflect.
Since it is a second edition, I would have liked to see the publishers index the scriptures and the many topics, making it easy to read at other times, after the initial reading by topic or spiritual need. That way, it would make a great reference tool to many searching for specific help in any area such as forgiveness or peace, but whatever the direction needed, Billy Graham's "Unto the Hills" will speak to generation after generation the great truths of God.
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
Disclosure of material connection:
I received this book free from the publisher Thomas P. Nelson through the BookSneeze.combook review blogger's program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
I LOVE SHEILA WALSH, so I can't wait for this one!!! Also I pray that this will restore my HOPE in God's promises from this past year of grieving a suicide of someone dear to me. Holding on to God as MY SHELTER.
"So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us."
In the "Shelter of God's Promises" by Sheila Walsh, she shares a key verse in each chapter of one of God's Promises in the Bible for Provision, Peace, Confidence, Love, Grace, Hope, Strength, and MORE plus Home!
I have known Sheila Walsh, mostly as a singer or speaker with Women of Faith, so I was anxious to sit down and walk with her through this beautiful teaching of God's Shelter in His Promises. Sheila interweaves Biblical truths with her real life experiences of testimony of God meeting her or others in times and places of need of shelter. She is just as inspirational as an author as I find her to be as a singer and speaker, truly she is a woman of faith and lives it.
I received this book from Book Sneeze, just at the time that I needed God's Shelter and through each chapter, God revealed through Sheila's words and His, encouragement and inspiration to seek whatever God promises. Whatever you may be searching for, I highly recommend Shelia's book to build your faith, bring you comfort, and show you how to find "Shelter" in God's Promises.
The highlight for me, is that you can use this individually or with a small group because of the addition of a wonderful study guide in the back of the book, that challenges you through each chapter with 4 categories to Discover, Believe, Live and Memorize. Either way, you can enjoy this book to strengthen and motivate you to live believing that God cannot lie and His promises are REAL!
Disclosure of material connection:
I received this book free from the publisher Thomas P. Nelson through the BookSneeze.combook review blogger's program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
I received "God's Love Letters To You: A 40-Day Devotional Experience" by Dr. Larry Crabb in E-Book format just in time to enjoy this summer, a refreshing look at God's Love for us, written and expressed in God's Word, the Bible and Dr. Crabb's heart through a unique conversation between him and God. I loved reading the "66 Love Letters" and could not wait to receive this by mail to read, TO FINISH READING THIS FULL BOOK REVIEW go HERE or Amazon
Max Lucado reminds us that it's not about us, it's ALL about God. The world does not revolve around us nor are we the center of the universe. Misconceptions that we are taught by society throughout our lives. But the rest of the title "Rescue From The Life We Thought Would Make Us Happy" sets the premise for this non-fiction, once again wonderfully written book by Max Lucado. He has such a way with words and story telling with humor and wisdom combined...
TO READ more of this REVIEW you can GO HERE...or Amazon
Confessions of a Sometimes Spiritually Clumsy Woman
written by Lisa Harper
... seems to have had me "stumbling" through the pages for far too long of a time, relating to the stories of Lisa's life in a diary like devotional, humorously written or profoundly inspiring as she connects her life situations to Jesus encounters in the New Testament in 3 parts: Real Life, Real Gifts and Real Growth. (to finish reading this review you need to go here)
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7th Book Review Received this one in the mail today 1/21/12, that always delights me making my heart and soul SING... so
Can you guess my book?
(3rd volume, newly released and since I never read the first 2) it's truly a keeper and treasure for me!
No more guessing, here it is
FINALLY 8/1/12 MY REVIEW of this book... (I wrote it earlier but saved it to post on this date so I'd remember)
Then Sings My Soul Book 3 :
The Story of Our Songs: Drawing Strength from the Great Hymns of Our Faithby Robert J. Morgan
I took my time with this one and so enjoyed using it like a daily devotional. My REVIEW explains this more.
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8th Book Review:
Well, today is 9-11 and the postal carrier met me on the road yesterday with a book from BookSneeze sent to me from folks back in MN sent at the end of August (since Booksneeze can no longer send Int'l)... perfect devotional read of 90 days,
"GRIEVING GOD'S WAY"
by Margaret Brownley
and
with today being 9-11
also
9-13
the day my dad went home
It's a timely
God sent delight
Setting aside all the rest to focus on this one.
(Hope it does not take me 90 days or maybe I need to do exactly that so this is where my healing begins, once again)
This time of the year until December
brings many memories of loved ones
no longer here.
So I'm trusting
God's perfect timing on reading this!
Finished and the REVIEW is HERE! and here and at BookSneeze!
Currently reading one from one of my favorite authors to review: 11th Book Review
"The Great House of God: A Home for Your Heart" by Max Lucado and another wonderful *gift of one from Sheila Walsh ... (I should do a review of this one also) (we'll see) My review of "The Great House of God..." will be posted May 1st My Amazon review already went "live" and says this is my 13th Book Review (so now I have to figure out which 2, I missed listing on here) but by my record here it's Book Review #11. 12th BOOK REVIEW
My 1st Book review and now my 12th by Billy Graham ...
*************************************** I discovered recently that I have missed listing some of my last few Book Reviews here ... Sorry, looks like I am not too good about UPDATING the books I currently REVIEW ... I just finished reading another one by one of my favorite authors already on this page. I gave a preview to his book previously when it was released and I published my REVIEW
10/14/2013 13th BOOK REVIEW (at least on this list) minus ones I've missed. One of the ones I missed listing was a really great book too!
HERE
and here* {I had two in one day sandwiched in between my series} * still need to link this when it publishes and then I'll also add the book cover
"Messy Beautiful Love: Hope and Redemption for Real-Life Marriages" by Darlene Schacht "Time-Warp Wife" *******************
*************************************** ... So now ...
I'm pondering
What should I READ TO REVIEW NEXT?
reading isn't my problem, reviewing them or choosing ebooks from publishers is
*************************************** There are many books that I've already started in 2012 in my Kindle for PC from Amazon, more in 2013, but it's so great to hold books in my hands (since the event of no computer access-lol, it's a bit more difficult to spend time reading).
Thanks to
Book Sneeze!
(now Book Look Bloggers) Thomas P. Nelson, WestBow, Zondervan and even a few more now like TYNDALE BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS and even a few authors gave me this opportunity to read and review their works
(plusKaren, who has frequently *gifted and sent me real books - an expensive venture but some she sent to MN not MX, nonetheless, she spoils me because she knows I thrive on reading good Christian books and miss English ones while here.)
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