Category: Devotional Reviews

Devotional Title

Devotions from the Beach

100 Devotions

This book is also available for Kindle, as an Audiobook, and Audio CD. (In my opinion, the photography is worth purchasing the physical copy.)

Published

2019 by Thomas Nelson

Author

Again, the devotional for this month did not have an author’s name on the cover. Reading over the copyright page, it says, “The devotions were written by Mariam Drennan and Betsy Painter.”

How I found this book and why I selected it.

Devotions from the Beach, jumped off the shelf due to the subject of beaches and the photography. (Can y’all tell I am missing the vistas of California while living my new Texas life?)

After flipping through a few of the devotionals, coupled with vibrant beach photos, I knew I needed to share it with you.

What did I love about it?

I enjoyed the creativity of titles for each of the 100 devotions. For example, “The Haven of Hammocks” and “Turtle Togetherness.”

The titles and photos for each devotion, set a welcoming stage to relax and dig in.

The writing, focusing on a biblical reflection, felt like a mini-vacation. I could envision my toes digging into the warm sand. I was captivated many times by the point the authors brought me to, and the short ending prayers wrapped it up well.

What I didn’t like about it?

I would have loved to know, upon purchase, that this was for women.

The cover and the back copy did not shout, “For women readers.” I was surprised to find a handful of devotions that referenced women specifically.

I apologize to my men readers…but…I do have a devotional review for men coming up in May. (I may be doing this because of Father’s Day coming up in June. 😉)

Who would want it?

Obviously, due to my previous stated observation, women.

Also, people who enjoy the ocean shoreline.

The writers did an excellent job of weaving in ideas to help grow with the Lord, and about sharing Jesus with others.

I like to share, in case you purchase a devotional, my favorites from each book.

This month, I have two that really stood out to me.

One, “The Strength of Sea Oats.” This hit a home run because I learned something along with getting a great message. Previously, I was ignorant about sea oats and their purpose. The message of that devo really stuck with me. (Pun intended…but you will have to read the book to find out. 😊)

Two, “Salt Air Hair.” Yes, they made a devotional about our hair changing in crazy ways due to the salt air. The photo alongside it is adorable!

Who would not want it?

Apparently, men. But I am mixed on this perspective. A quick survey of my California teen daughters showing no interest in this book tells me it is a thumbs down for the younger reader.

Did it bear fruit?

Yes, it did. These devotionals stuck with me. The layout of photos to capture my interest each day helped me to relax as I reflected upon the scripture and prayer point.

Question 

Would you like to win the future copy of a devotional that I review? If you live in the contiguous United States, keep reading.

If you share with someone about my website and make a comment on my social media or website that you did, it will enter you for the chance to have mailed to you, the devotional I review next month. (For contiguous United States mailing only.)

A share can be on social media, or if you tell someone about my blog. I will trust the honor system. If you are blessed by my blog, I am trusting you would want to tell someone else about it!

Until next week, keep walking on mustard seeds!

Devotional Title

Prayers & Promises for Life

This book is also available as an eBook.

Published

2021 by BroadStreet Publishing

Author

Not sure who the author is. Michelle Wigner is mentioned for the compilation and editing, but there is no author listed.

How I found this book and why I selected it.

I found this book at Barns & Noble and instantly loved the title and cover. I fall for faux leather every time – who does not enjoy the feel of it? For visual attraction, the leaves and title are embossed.

But this title, Prayers & Promises for Life, who does not want to peek inside and see what helps for daily living are inside?

I had to purchase it and review it for you guys.

What did I love about it?

First, this devotional has a by-topic index. Seventy selections, alphabetically listed, starting with Anxiety and ending with Worry, allowing you to pick the topic you need for the day, rather than the calendar date.

Second, topics have up to four verses on the left page, no fewer than two. But most days have four. Reading more than one verse per topic, allows scripture to back up and reinforce God’s perspective.

On the right page, there is a short reflection of the scripture passages that is always addressed to Jesus or God. They are a great way to focus and seek understanding with God on the selected topic.

Lastly, each section has a short question to ponder on the point presented. The quick reflective ideas were helpful for digesting the topic.

What I didn’t like about it?

I did like Prayers & Promises for Life.

Who would want it?

This is a great gift for the graduate, a teen, or young adult. Also, anyone looking to bring their daily concerns under God’s guidance, no matter what that day brings. (Guidance happens to be one of the topics.) 😊

It is a great size that can be put in a purse, briefcase, or glovebox. (Are they called that anymore?)

Who would not want it?

This is not for someone who wants to reach for a traditional devotional. Meaning, one verse leading to a reflection, and perhaps a prayer, divided in order of 30, 60, 90, or 365 days.

Also, different versions of the bible were used throughout the devotional. I have nothing against that, and I myself use different versions on my devotional posts. But, some people prefer one version of the bible over all others. So, if that is you, I do not recommend this devotional.

Did it bear fruit?

Yes. There were reflective points that helped my view of things. The topics Generosity and Strength were my favorite.

It is a great read for a snack, helping between meals, providing biblical comfort.

Question

Would you share in the comments what devotional you are currently reading? I would love to know.

Devotional Title

God Is My Hiding Place, by Corrie Ten Boom

Subtitle

40 Devotions for Refuge and Strength

How I found this book and why I selected it.

I was searching on Amazon for a devotional to review for you guys. Nothing jumped off the monitor and said, “Buy me.” I looked at devotionals appropriate for the season…Christmas. But I chose to not go down that path. If I was going to present a Christmas devotional for review, I should have done so at the start of Fall.

Next, I popped onto Christianbook.com. I soon found this newly published work, God Is My Hiding Place, October 2021 to be exact. I am excited to review this newer title.

I steered away from works by Corrie Ten Boom for a long time. Why? Stories of concentration camps were hard for me to hear. The despair and loss were overwhelming for me to process. So, many of you are likely more versed in her writing.

Without any further chatting, let’s talk about the devotional.

What did I love about it?

Transparent moment. I have days when doing the simplest things is difficult.

I am used to it and recognize I need to figure out what happened to create the most current paralyzation of my abilities. I don’t want to bring up the subject of the news, but have you seen it lately? Or for the last 24 months?

No one can process it all. It feels like the world is an artery functioning while being 80% clogged. Doom. Gloom.

And then came God Is My Hiding Place. 

I love it! 

What I didn’t like about it?

Nothing. Absolutely nothing. I will be completely honest, I have not finished the devotional. I do apologize for this review not being a complete read. I am still trying to think of something I do not like about it…..

Nope. Nothing yet.

Who would want it?

With stress and overwhelming news that greets you daily on your laptop, cell phone, or the traditional print copies, this devotional is the perfect balm. All the discord falls away as Corrie Ten Boom describes Jesus in the middle of impossible situations.

Her lessons of relying on God in the 20th century are perfect helps for today. It is a great daily devotional to see Jesus as your strength and solution for every moment.

Who would not want it?

I’ll have to get back to you on that.

Did it bear fruit?

Each devotion is bringing me peace and strength. (My dishes are getting done promptly again.) Corrie Ten Boom shares the light of Christ, handing a torch of faith from her generation to ours.

I am thankful for the people at Baker Publishing Group, and Chosen Books, who took different excerpts of her writing and presented them in this devotional. And to Gretchen Rodriquez, who wrote beautiful and applicable prayers for each devotion.

Bounty for an Extended Season

As I read day nine, anxiety was addressed. Do you hear this word a lot? Do you ever use the word to describe your situation? I am reminded there is nothing new under the heavens. 

If you are in an extended season of anxiety or uncertainty I highly suggest this devotional. Each day has been comforting and welcoming me to trust God more. 

Question 

If you have or have not read books by Corrie Ten Boom, you have likely heard snippets of her writing. Well known stories. Would you share what your favorite one is in the comments?

I have a new favorite one, that I had not heard until I read, God Is My Hiding Place. It takes place in Africa. But you will have to read the book to find out. 🙂

PS I should respond to my title for this post.

Why do old stories return?

Corrie Ten Boom’s stores are heard again and again.

Because they speak to the truth of God in difficult places. Timeless.

That truth aids you to grasp a needed understanding.

They comfort your worried heart and mind.

Like Mary and Joseph, trusting God in the middle of their journey to Bethlehem, Corri reveals how to trust God in our journey…which reminds me of devotion day 13. It is titled Enjoying the Journey.

See you back here next Thursday!

Devotional Title

Unprecedented Days: 90 Days of Fire

Subtitle

Devotions that Bring Awakening and Transformation

Author: Dr. Zach Prosser 

Brief overview

90 days of devotions spread out over about 203 pages. Minus the introduction, copyright page, Table of Contents, etc.

The contents page is great for the quick reference of the titled topics for each day. If you are stirring for something specific to learn, a quick glance over the titles might be a way to jump in.

How I discovered this book

Do you guys remember when I made this announcement early in October?

“I participated in a virtual writer’s summit last week. 

A publisher asked me to review a devotional for you guys! I said, “Yes”! 

And… something else came from the summit…more about that in a couple of months!” 

We still must wait on the second announcement…but for now…

Thank you, Tamera Lynn Kraft, Managing Editor of Mt Zion Ridge Press, for providing this devotional for review! It has been fun and engaging to study this devotional. 

And I promise! I did am not providing this review for any compensation. The devotional was provided with absolutely no expectations told to me. 

Since we all work from the same book/guidelines…the bible, I will gladly fulfill my word and review, Unprecedented Days: 90 Days of Fire.

What did I love about it?

First, the cover is beautiful. Its simplicity yet vibrant color flow catches my eye every time I look at it.

I enjoyed Dr. Zach Proccer’s heart for drawing the reader closer to a personal revival that can then be reflected in their lives around them.

The scriptural references, questions he poses to the reader, and serval points to ponder for each day, making every day a deep dive.

Dr. Prosser quotes other authors of the faith.

To name a few:

Matthew Henry

A.W.Tozer

Jonathan Edwards

I personally find this helpful should I want to further explore the topic for that day, I know who I can look up to research.

Dr. Prosser does not shy away from hot topics in the faith or in society.

What I didn’t like about it

On some days, the switch from the author’s writing voice to sizable quotes of other writers overwhelmed me at times.

You might notice this was also something I liked about the book in the section above. Very observant of you. At times the switch did not flow easily for me.

BUT…as I say one other place in this review, this is what makes each day like a mini-sermon. Packed with a lot of steppingstones for each day.

Who would want it?

Have you ordered lobster before? Shell and all.

Working the meat out the shell with the special fork. Finally, success waits on the prongs ready to dip it into the butter sauce. A delicacy to be savored.

If you are searching for a deeper knowledge of God’s love with the knowledge this is not something to keep to yourself, this would be a solid choice for you.

Who would not want it?

Do you prefer eating a sugar sprinkled blueberry-filled muffin? Soft and oh so easy to gain the sweet truth of God. This is not for you.

Also, I would not recommend this for the newer person to the bible. There are many references to scripture that prior knowledge would be helpful.

For example, at the end of day five, there is a reference to the sleeping virgins. Yet there is no verse reference and no explanation about that story. There is the assumption that the story is known. You will find this story in Matthew, chapter 25, for those of you who are curious.

Did it bear fruit?

Yes. Yes, it did.

Many readings made me pause and reflect several times a day.

There was one day early on, with the image of an apple and its seeds that I just can’t get out of my thoughts.

You’ll have to pick up a copy to find out what that is all about. :^)

It is a great feast

Unprecedented Days: 90 Days of Fire is a devotional I would want to read several times.

It reminded me of how Oswald Chambers’s book, My Utmost for His Highest is laid out. Thick with scripture references and a lot to digest.

Question for you

I have shared before how I am regularly learning how to improve my writing craft. I would love to ask you, what are you learning about this week or month…and why? Do tell! In the comments below.

Review of Devotional

Nobody Left Out*, by Michael Murray

Subtitle

A 40-day devotional for messy, broken people (like me!)

I found the titles irresistible. It had to be my next devotional to review.

It was released in 2020 and is currently ranking on Amazon, as of the eve of this post:

#2 for Inspirational Christianity

#5 for New Testimate Meditations

#7 for New Testament Criticism & Interpretation

What does that mean?

Michael Murray’s devotional is selling really well!

Out of three categories, it ranked, second, fifth, and seventh. As of October 13th, 2021.

What did I love about it?

Michael Murray wrote about familiar men and women in the bible.

He brought a new spark to the familiar stories.

Michael Murray makes room for everyone who reads the 40-day devotional. His storytelling and perspective welcome the oldest and the newest saint. And anyone who is unsure of what they think of God.

The daily devotions are filled with quote-worthy lines. I often found myself pausing and reflecting on Murray’s insight.

This devotional is written in a way that makes readers feel welcome.

What I didn’t like about it?

Reading, Nobody Left Out, took some adjusting.

Typical devotionals I read, have a verse or two, and then a brief telling of a reflection. And it will frequently end with a prayer or contemplative point.

Murray requires the reader to break out their bible or bible app and look up the verses he will address over the five-day period for that section.

Adjusting to more of a bible study technique was not what I was expecting.

I stayed with it because I was committed to providing a review of the devotional.

Each day’s section ends with two thought-provoking questions. I found myself jotting the answers down on the pages.

For me, this seemed like a mini-study each day rather than a traditional devotional time.

This is not a complaint, but letting you know my perspective, should you decide to purchase the devotional for yourself or someone else. It was excellently written.

Who would want it?

Nobody Left Out is a great idea for any of the following:

Teens

Young Adults

Family Devotional Time

People newly learning about God.

People who have questions about God.

A fabulous reading plan for Lent.

Who would not want it?

If you are wanting a devotional that has a verse to savor and then you read a reflection and a prayer to button it up, this devotional is not for you.

And that is okay. If your time permits for a one-page devotional, this is not the one you are looking for.

Michaels Murray’s devotional, Nobody Left Out, asks you read up to a whole chapter or at least a few verses of scripture, to cover the five days of reflection.

This borders on a bible study. It is filled with helpful insight. But you will be frustrated if that is not what you are looking for.

Did it bear fruit?

Yes.

Michael Murray, for one section, wrote about the widow who gave all she had. He enriched this story by researching the history of the times and what Jesus was doing before, after, and in this story.

I love the fresh perspective provided as the traditional teachings on this story have never held water for me. 

It was written, like all the other devotional sections, humbly searching for the view through Jesus.

I would recommend, Nobody Left Out. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.) Michael Murray lets us know that he has cerebral palsy, so I knew his writing would come with a more profound trust in God than I have experienced.

I am grateful for his humble telling of men’s and women’s stories in the bible. He came to each exploration as someone on equal ground, which we all are.

As far as my Devotional Rankings, I might have to select two categories. Yes, I think I will. 

It is a great read for a snack for:

Learning about how God sees us and we do belong.

Individual or group/family study for Lent.

It is a great read for seasons for:

The sweet reminders of how Christ does see us.

We can have rest in belonging.

Fun announcement!

I am always learning more about writing. I want to provide great content for you in a way that engages and inspires you in your walk with God.

I participated in a virtual writers summit last week. 

A publisher asked me to review a devotional for you guys! I said, “Yes”! 

Next month’s Devotional will be a newer release. How exciting!

And…something else came from the summit…more about that in a couple of months!

I love devotionals. I was introduced to them in my late teens. I quickly found what seemed to be a simple reading was anchoring my day. They transform my perspective of the world around me and how I interacted with it. God’s word was presented in bite-sized pieces I could chew on throughout the day.

Once a month I will share a review of a devotional I have read. I am excited to use this space as a reason to explore more devotionals. If you have one you would like reviewed, write your suggestion in the comments. I would love to know about it.

Yes! I will provide a rating system. It will have four categories. Not a typical, worst to best, because devotionals are not typical. Some can fill a year’s journey and beyond. Others are very specific for a momentary transition. Some fill a need that is subject-specific and can be used again and again but does not fill a need for a full year of time with God’s word.

I will rate the devotionals according to the purpose being fulfilled.

Review of Devotions For Dieters

Devotions For Dieters was written by Cecil Murphey, a New York Times bestselling author.

Are you asking why did I choose a devotional about diet? I don’t blame you. We are hit with advertising about this subject our whole lives. Who needs another reminder about their waistline?

At the time I discovered Devotions For Dieters, I was wanting to get back to basic nutrition information about food. This devotional provides nutrition facts while acknowledging the struggle with food, and that we need to take Jesus with us on this journey.

What did I love about this book?

Cecil Murphey was honest about his weight journey. Some people struggle from childhood into adulthood and others only in adulthood. It was important for me to know where he was coming from with his experience for authenticity. He delivered.

His devotions grounded my thinking. I would find myself reflecting on the point made for the day throughout the day.

What did I not like about this book?

Week 1 day 5 is my favorite yet most disliked day. It truthfully says no one diet is the right one for everyone. And every diet requires the work of sticking to it. Being smacked with truth hurts! His ability to close with a prayer that tied it all to letting Jesus lead helped me welcome what I wanted to deny.

Who would want this book?

If you are in need of troubleshooting with your diet, this might be a great option for you. It catches some finer points where we can easily slip up all while grounding the ideas presented in spiritual grace.

Who would not want this book?

People who would not like this book are people who do not want to reflect on why they do what they do.

In summary, I appreciated the topics Cecil Murphey covers in Devotion For Dieters. Some of the subjects are goals, sugar, commitment, exercise, forgiveness, and fear. There are many more.

He provides six weeks of devotionals, one for each day of the six weeks. In my opinion, this could be read and reread until the weight goal is reached. Refresher readings would be a great way to stay on top of any potential slip-ups. You can easily search by topic by flipping the pages. Sometimes we need encouragement in a specific area. And this devotional delivers.

Did it bear fruit?

Yes! I lost two pounds in the first read-through.

I hope you enjoyed my first devotional review. Please write in the comments any devotionals for me to consider for future reviews. Thank you!