Book + Bible Study

I have a new book and Bible study to share with you today by Lysa Terkeurst.

       

About the book:

New York Times bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst shows you what to do with your skepticism and distrust so you can heal from past betrayals and move forward with strength and resilience.

Trust is the oxygen of all human relationships. But it's also what trips you up after you've been burned. Maybe a friend constantly lets you down. A leader or organization you respect turns out to be different than they portray themselves to be. A spouse cheats on you. A family member betrays you. You're exhausted by other people's choices and starting to question your own discernment. And you're wondering, If God let this happen, can he even be trusted?

How can you live well and step into the future when you keep stumbling over trust issues? Lysa TerKeurst says it's not simply about finding better people to walk with. It's about developing the stability you long for within yourself and with God, so you don't become cynical and carry a broken belief system into every new relationship. In I Want to Trust You, But I Don't, Lysa shows you how to

• identify which of the eleven relational red flags are stirring up distrust, so you can pinpoint why you're feeling uneasy;
• stop having more faith in your fears coming true than God coming through for you by asking crucial "what if" questions to better process your doubts;
• recognize when a fractured relationship can be repaired by considering a reasonable list of characteristics necessary for rebuilding trust; and
• understand the physical, emotional, and neurological impact of the betrayals you've experienced and start healing from the inside out.

In a world where so many things feel alarming, this book will give you a peace that isn't dependent on unpredictable people, circumstances, and experiences. Instead, it offers practical and biblical ways to make real progress toward healthier perspectives, relationships, and a future you can authentically look forward to.

About the study:

Building upon and further unpacking the scriptural concepts in her book I Want to Trust You, but I Don’t, this six-session Bible study (video access included) will equip you to:

• Identify which of the 11 relational red flags are stirring up distrust, so you're able to better pinpoint why you're feeling uneasy.
• Recognize when it's possible to repair a fractured relationship and how to do it with a five-step framework you can start using today.
• Understand what the Bible says about trusting God and others so you're equipped to make decisions that are in line with Scripture.
• Learn how to know the difference between a feeling you're having and true discernment from the Holy Spirit so you can move on from the past with more wisdom and assurance.

This study guide includes:

• Individual access to six streaming video sessions
• A guide to best practices for leading a group
• Video notes and a comprehensive structure for group discussion time
• Personal study for deeper reflection between sessions

My thoughts:

I felt there was a lot in this book that I couldn't relate to in regards to losing trust in marriage; however, she does give examples of other situations where a person can lose trust.  I appreciate that she shares some of her personal experiences and the process of trusting again when trust was broken.  She makes it clear this is not an overnight thing and will take time.  

Each chapter ends with "One More Thing I Want You to Know" followed by Remember, Receive, Reflect, and Pray.  I like this feature as it is helpful to review when you read nonfiction.   Here is an example from one chapter.  

There are single quotes on individual pages throughout the book.  Here is one.  

This is the type of book you may need to read more than once to glean information from it.  

About the Bible Study:

I have done many Bible studies through the years by a variety of authors.  I like the set up of this one with a schedule for you to follow for each chapter/session.  

The personal study days are similar to other studies I've done with questions, passages to read, and fill in the blanks to answer.  

For the video sessions notes are included as well with space to take your own notes.

Click on this link to learn more about this author and these books and to purchase.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

#iwanttotrustyoubook

Have a day of blessings!

 Bethany

Devotional book: Immeasurably More

About the book:

In Ephesians 3:20, Paul tells us that God can do ”immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (NIV). Deb Burma beautifully reveals what this means in her relational, conversational, richly scriptural devotional created for you.

Across 100 devotions with journaling and prayer prompts, you—individually or with your sisters in Christ—will discover God‘s immeasurable...

• Grace

• Love

• Power

• Provision

• Purpose

• Peace

• Joy

• Gifts

• Rest

• Life

My thoughts:

I love finding new devotional books.  I am pleased to share Immeasurably More  today by Deb Burma which is a brand new release! 

  
I like the set up of this book.  There is a verse, reading, and a space to answer a journal prompt and write a prayer.  This is an example of a journal prompt.  

There are 100 devotions that will encourage your heart.  Notice above the 10 different topics that are covered.  This is a good way to spend some time focusing on God's Word and truth during your day.

I have enjoyed reading these devotions and the questions posed at the end.  This will be a nice addition to your quiet time.  It would make a nice gift as well.  Please consider buying this book.     

Here is a trailer to hear the author talk about this devotions.

Buy the devotional at this link.

#immeasurablymore #cphreads

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Bible study: Before the Throne

About Before the Throne

God’s people know they can turn to Him when times get tough. Instead of trying to fix things on our own, we can enter God’s throne room in prayer. The access granted to us by Jesus our High Priest is our comfort when the world is turned upside down. In Before the Throne, Crickett offers eight prayer warriors from Scripture who turned to God when times became difficult. You’ll learn to pray with:

·        Moses in times of disappointment

·        The Psalmists in times of need

·        Jonah in times of disobedience

·        Hezekiah in times of battle

·        Habakkuk in times of questioning

·        Jesus in a time of intercession

·        Paul in times of hardship

·        Revelation saints in times of worship

 

As you study these prayers, you’ll be strengthened as you see how these godly Bible characters poured out their hearts to God and how He responded to them. You’ll learn how to pray with the same power when you feel weak, helpless, stressed, or afraid. As you turn your focus toward God’s character through prayer, He will supply the strength you need to face whatever is before you.

About Crickett Keeth

Crickett is the Women’s Ministry Director at First Evangelical Church in Memphis, Tennessee, where she writes and teaches the women’s Bible studies. She is the author of several published Bible studies, including On Bended Knee (Moody), The Gift of Rest and Sumatra with the Seven Churches (co-authored with Sandra Glahn). Crickett was on staff with Cru for ten years and is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary. In addition to teaching regularly at her own church, she also speaks at women’s conferences and retreats. She offers free resources for discipleship and encourages others in their own walk with God through her website at www.crickettkeeth.com. Her life purpose is to encourage others to passionately pursue Jesus Christ.

My thoughts:

I enjoy using books to help me study God's word.  I am happy to share with you today a new to me author (Crickett Keeth) and her new study called Before The Throne.

The message of this book feels timely for the issues and troubles facing all of us today.  We all have so much happening.  This study looks in depth at a few examples from the Bible who faced difficulties and how they used prayer in their lives.  We can apply this to our lives now.  

I do like the lay out of this study.  I like how each week focuses on a different person.  There are 5 days of study for each week.  The questions she asks are thoughtful and deep.  Some answers are easily found in the pages of the biblical text but some do make you dig a little deeper, which I appreciate.  Finally, I like the appropriate quotes from others that are spread randomly throughout.  

I have not completed the full study yet, but I am enjoying it as I go.  This will be an author I will watch in the future as well due to this study.  Check out this Bible study to do with your friends or on your own.

I received a copy of this book for my honest review.  Thank you.

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

3 book devotional set!

About the books:

INDESCRIBABLE
Indescribable displays the majesty of creation with scientific findings, photography, and original illustrations. These 100 devotions encourage awe at God's creativity with an in-depth look at:

Space, galaxies, planets, and stars
Earth, geology, oceans, and weather
Animals: from hummingbirds to dinosaurs
Our minds, bodies, and imaginations
Indescribable: 100 Devotions About God & Science has sold over 100,000 copies! This book is perfect for children, ages 6-10 years old, and each devotional features a:

"Be Amazed" section with fascinating scientific facts
Easy-to-follow, hands-on STEM activity
Closing prayer
Psalm 19:1 says, "The heavens tell the glory of God. And the skies announce what his hands have made." It's impossible to out-imagine God. He orchestrates time, creates light, and speaks things into existence--from the largest stars to the smallest starfish. God is the powerful, purposeful, personal, unparalleled Creator.

HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD
Show the children in your life the awe-inspiring connection between the natural world and the God who created it. With amazing facts, fun illustrations, and photography, How Great is Our God helps children see the incomparable greatness of God.  These 100 new devotions explore the wonder of God’s handiwork, from the massive to the microscopic.

With this science devotional, children will embark on a journey to discover more about God and His incredible creation.  From the pink lake in Senegal to the earth’s trip around the sun, the wonders of the universe will deepen your kids’ appreciation for God’s wild imagination.

THE WONDER OF CREATION
100 More Devotions About God and Science
Ignite your child's sense of wonder and awe as they see Scripture come alive through God’s creation. Children will find new delight in God's creativity with 100 devotions that explore:

Animals —from honeyguide birds to flying snakes to white rhinos
Space—from black holes to volcanic moons to gamma-ray bursts
People—from optical illusions to brain freezes to our immune systems
Earth—from rainbow rivers to blue lava to flowing glaciers
And much, much more!


My thoughts:

My son and I have started reading these books, and we are enjoying them.  He is almost 7 and they are just the right length for us to read at night before bed.  There are several things I really like about these books.  First, there is such a variety of topics for the devotions.  These are sure to keep the interest of children who enjoy science.  Second, they are informative mixed with biblical truth.  We've only read a few of them but both of us have already learned a thing or two.  I love hearing my son ask questions and want to know more about what he has read.  Third, the illustrations are great and capture your attention.  

This set would make a great gift for a little one in your life in their Easter basket or a birthday present.  I could see this being a perfect gift to give a friend too for a birthday.

Go to this site to learn more and purchase the books.  

I received this set of books from Frontgate media for my honest review.  Thank you.

#IndescribableKidsBooks

#GodandScienceBooks

#HomeSchoolScience

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Book: Philippians by Joyce Meyer

About the book:

Internationally renowned author and Bible teacher Joyce Meyer provides a close study on Philippians, emphasizing the true joy that comes from serving others through Christ.

Paul's letter to the people at Philippi serves as a reminder that if we search for joy in possessions, places, or people, we will always come up short. True, lasting joy comes only through faith in Jesus Christ, living in harmony with His followers, and serving others in the name of Christ. The life lived by the Philippians is still attainable today. In her comprehensive approach, Joyce Meyer takes a deep dive into well-known and beloved verses, identifying key truths and incorporating room for personal reflection.

Joyce's Philippians provides a key study tool that will help you develop a stronger relationship with God. If you take time to examine His word, you'll see how much He loves you and how much He desires that you live a joyful, content life on earth!

My thoughts:

I have read several of Joyce Meyer's books and enjoyed them.  I thought I would enjoy this one particularly because Philippians has always been one of my favorite books in the Bible.  Even though it is familiar we can always learn new things. And I HAVE enjoyed reading it.  

I appreciate this book and the insight offered by Meyers about the familiar verses in Philippians. There are questions called "Personal Reflections" included in boxes throughout the book with space to journal your answers.  Some of the chapters include "The Power of Joy and the Simplicity of the Gospel," "Joy and Trust," and "Let Go and Grow."  There are 14 chapters.  Each one has a divisions that focus on a specific verse passage.  

Here was a quote I liked that made me think.  It was in the section on Philippians 1:27-30...

"Fear is the devil's first choice of weapons to use against us.  To fear something is to want to run from it, and that is exactly what the enemy wants.  He wants us to run from God's will, to run from difficulty, and to give up on the good things God has asked us to do."

This is an enjoyable book to read and learn from, I recommend it to you.

Click here for more information on this book.

I received a copy of this book for my honest review from Hachette Book Group.  Thank you.

Have a day of blessings!

 Bethany

Bible: Verse Mapping + Giveaway!

Bible Description:

Go beyond just reading the Bible.

Verse mapping means getting real about studying the Bible. More than simply reading a verse or Scripture passage, verse mapping means using Bible study tools to research what you’ve just read in the Bible—to learn more about what God is saying to you and how you can apply his Word to your life today. 

In the NIV Verse Mapping Bible, author Kristy Cambron expands her verse mapping curriculum series to include verses from the entire Bible, showing you how to compare Bible translations, pick out meaningful words, and delve into the true meaning of each verse using starter verse maps and prompts. Verse mapping will help you study the historical context, transliteration, translation, connotation, and theological framework of a verse. This unique study technique includes exploring Hebrew and Greek word studies, finding connections in Scripture, comparing Bible translations, and learning as much as you can from your time in God’s Word. 

 Verse mapping involves five steps:

1. Choose: Select a verse and write it out.
2. Compare: Record this verse in two or three other Bible translations and underline key words that are the same or different between translations.
3. Research: Look up the Hebrew or Greek meaning for the underlined words and record it.
4. Consider: Ask questions of the verse. Imagine what it would be like to have experienced what’s happening. Read the verses surrounding this verse and use other study tools to dig even deeper, if you prefer.
5. Apply: What is God saying to you? How does this verse relate to your life today?

 Features:

• Full text of the accurate, readable, and clear New International Version (NIV)
• Guided instructions on how verse mapping works, how to start, and how to get the most from your mapping
• 350 partially completed verse maps with pre-selected verses in multiple Bible translations and helpful Hebrew or Greek word studies
• Includes directions on how to use the Reverse Interlinear feature on BibleGateway.com to research the Greek and Hebrew translations for these 350 verses for free
• More than 70 blank verse maps for your own inductive Bible study journey
• 66 book introductions
• Presentation page
• Topical index
• Satin ribbon marker
• Cloth over board cover lays flat when open
• Exclusive Zondervan NIV Comfort Print® typeface
• 8-point print size

My thoughts:

I was not familiar with verse mapping so was excited to learn more about this method for studying Scripture.  

There are many things I like about this particular Bible.  First the size and layout are great.  It is not too bulky to hold and I do like that it is a hardcover.   Another thing I like is that they provide 350 verse maps that are started for you.  They choose the verse and begin it and then you can finish.  There are also plenty of spaces that are totally blank for you to do your own verse map from beginning to end on whichever verse you choose. I will say the font is small I noticed. 

I feel like this method would be beneficial for someone wanting to dig dipper!

You can purchase one of these Bibles at https://versemapping.com/

Or if you would like to enter to WIN your own copy, go to this link!  

 #kristycambron #nivbible #versemapping #versemappingbible #giveaway

@versemapping

I received a copy of this Bible from FrontGate Media for my honest review.  Thank you.

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Bible study: 7 Feasts

About The 7 Feasts:

In her first title in Moody Publishers Bible study line for women, Davis, a speaker, author, and blogger, leads women through an 8-week study on the Seven Feasts outlined in Leviticus 23, from Passover to the Feast of Firstfruits to Day of Atonement and the Feast of Booths. While Leviticus 23 acts as the launching pad for the study, Davis takes readers throughout the Old and New Testaments as she unpacks each feast, its meaning, the symbolism, what it teaches us about God, and its significance to our lives today.

You will discover that passages you once skimmed over are now rich and meaningful in your life today.

 More About the study:

The Old Testament is filled with festivals of remembrance and celebration, but we often view these events as full of rules and regulations that have nothing to do with our lives today. But, what if we looked at them differently? What can we learn from them and how do they illuminate the character of God?

“The seven feasts are so much more than antiquated rules and rituals,” says Erin Davis, author of the new Bible study, 7 Feasts: Finding Christ in the Sacred Celebrations of the Old Testament (Moody Publishers, June 2020). “They’re so much more than an out-of-date list of celebrations from a foreign culture in a hard-to- read book. The feasts were established as constant object lessons on the character

and faithfulness of God.”

In her first title in Moody Publishers Bible study line for women, Davis, a speaker, author, and blogger, leads women through an 8-week study on the Seven Feasts outlined in Leviticus 23, from the Passover and the Feast of Firstfruits to the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Booths.

“Leviticus isn’t just a book of rules arbitrarily handed down by a detached authority” says Davis. “They are opportunities to learn how to live, given to us by our patient Teacher. This paradigm shift matters, because it speaks to the heart of God.”

While Leviticus 23 acts as the launching pad for the study, Davis takes readers throughout the Old and New Testaments as she unpacks each feast, its meaning, the symbolism, what it teaches us about God, and its significance to our lives today. After spending the first week setting a foundation by helping readers better understand how to study Scripture and the rhythms of God, she focuses on the following feasts in subsequent weeks:

• Passover: Reminds us of our deliverance from death.

• Feast of Unleavened Bread: Reminds us that we still face the dangerous and permeating death of sin.

• Feast of Firstfruits: Celebrates that God gives us His very best: Himself. In return, as an act of worship, we give Him our very best.

• Feast of Weeks: Reminds us that God never wastes the wait.

• Feast of Trumpets: Jesus will fulfill the Feast of Trumpets with His triumphant return.

• Day of Atonement: This day showcase’s God’s elaborate grace.

• Feast of Booths: Shines the spotlight on God and reminds His children of His character.

“The Israelites were commanded to observe the seven feasts as a practical way to remember who God is. God graciously structured their calendars in a way that combatted their spiritual amnesia,” says Davis. “Because of Jesus, we no longer live under the letter of the law. We do still live, however, under the spirit of the law. We’re still prone to spiritual amnesia. We still need to rest in God’s redemptive plan. Our hearts still need to be shocked back into praise on a regular basis.”

About the author:

A popular speaker, author, and blogger, Erin Davis has addressed women of all

ages nationwide and is passionately committed to sharing God's Truth with others.

She is the author of many books, including Connected, Beyond Bath Time, and

books in the My Name Is Erin series. She also contributes regularly to the True

Woman blog. When she’s not writing, you can find Erin chasing down chickens and

children on her small farm in the Midwest.

My thoughts:
I am absolutely loving this study.  I was intrigued by this book’s description when I was offered a review copy. I’m so glad I said yes!

This is a wonderful study. I have not completed it as I am taking my time to find the verses, answer the questions, etc. I have been so blessed!

Let me tell you about it. There are 8 different weeks of study. Each week has an introduction followed by five days of lessons. Each week is focused on a different feast.

I have done many different Bible studies by different authors. This is my first by Erin Davis. It is totally my style, and I just love everything about it so far. I am learning so much and really like this way of studying the Bible.

I’d highly recommend this study for you to do with friends, your ladies class, or just on your own. You will be blessed!

Thank you to Moody Publishers for sending me a copy for my honest review.

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Book review: Colossians

About the book:

Let the wisdom of Colossians transform relationships in every area of your life — home, church, and even the world — with this study guide from renowned Bible teacher Joyce Meyer.

Paul’s letter to the Colossians reminds us that as we have died with Christ, so, too, do we need to die to our sins. It encourages us that because we have also been raised in Him, we must submit to Jesus and adopt qualities motivated by Christian love.

In this comprehensive study tool, Joyce Meyer’s commentary on Colossians affirms the Lordship of Christ and offers practical advice on family, relationships, and faith.

My thoughts:
I have really enjoyed reading this commentary by Joyce Meyer on the New Testament book of Colossians.

I like the format of the book.  It begins with background information about the book of Colossians.  It is divided into 14 chapters with a short section of the text of Colossians printed at the beginning of each.  There is a question for "personal reflection" as well as lined spaced to record your thoughts.

The book is easy to read and follow with practical input for your personal living.  Colossians has a lot to say about how we should live as Christians.  This book does a good job of breaking it down verse by verse in a way you will be able to understand.

If you have not read anything by Joyce Meyer I encourage you to give this book a try.   Look here for more information or to get your own copy.

Thank you to Hachette Book Group for sending me a copy of this book for my review.

Have a day of blessings!
 Bethany

Bible workbooks

About the Bible workbooks:

Do you wish to better understand the fundamentals of the Bible in an organized, factual way? Or, are you looking for a systematic way to teach them to others?

Whether you’re an individual wanting to learn more, a homeschooling family, Christian school teacher, Sunday school teacher or youth leader, Catherine Walker’s Bible Workbooks Vol 1. (OT) and Vol 2. (NT) might be the resource you’re looking for to help grow in the basic truths of the Bible.

Read on to learn more and see if you might be interested in joining the blog tour!

Whether a student is beginning their faith journey and wants to better understand the Bible, or a teacher wants his students to have the basics down, the workbooks help readers work through the fundamental themes and teachings of the Old and New Testament. Each workbook includes detailed maps, helpful exercises, and questions for students to do on their own to serve as a foundation for classroom discussion, group discussion, or in-depth personal study. Highlights include an introduction and overview of the Bible as a whole, overviews of the main books in the Old and New Testaments including author background, literary themes, timing, key texts, and outlines, a chronological study of the Old Testament and a brief study of all the books in the New Testament, an overview of the period between Malachi and Matthew, known as the “400 Silent Years,” detailed walk through Paul’s Epistles, and a parallel study of Revelation.


My thoughts:
I have been so excited to use these workbooks.  Many times I have questions about the Bible.  I feel I know so many Bible stories but sometimes I have questions about how it all fits together.  I have thoroughly enjoyed going through the questions as I am reading the Bible.  The stories are familiar to me, but I am learning so much which I love.  I do a little bit each day so it is going to take me a while to get through both books through the Old and New Testaments.

If you are looking for studying the Bible in a new way, I'd recommend you give these a try.

Find out more here.

Here is a sample page I found online.

I received a copy of these workbooks from the publisher for my honest review.  Thank you.

Have a day of blessings! 
 Bethany

Book: James Biblical Commentary

About the book:
Put your faith into practice on a daily basis and grasp the practical truths of God’s Word by studying these principles:

• *Even in the face of trials, we can find joy because trials produce good fruit in our lives, the fruit of endurance leading to spiritual growth and maturity.

*Our words are extremely powerful, so watching our words and using them carefully is of the utmost importance. Negative words can bring pain and destruction, but positive words bring blessing.

* We can resist the devil and he will flee from us.

*Sincere, heartfelt prayers are very powerful and effective.

James has so much to say about living a powerful and effective life in Christ. The book addresses a variety of topics important to growing your faith and teaches that you not only need to read the Word of God and know what it says, but you also need to act on it.

My thoughts:
I have always appreciated so much of the book of James in the Bible.  I have enjoyed reading this commentary by Joyce Meyer.  

I like the set up of the book. It begins with information about the book of James. Then it is divided into 11 chapters. Chapters include "Dealing with Temptation and Being a Doer of the Word," "Becoming Truly Wise," and "Practical Advice for Believers."  The chapters are divided into sections that focus on a short passage.  These are followed by a question and space for personal reflection.  The commentary for each section of scripture is not overly long.  

This would be a nice book to use during your personal devotional time.  I would recommend this book to you if you are a fan of Joyce Meyer.

Go here to find out more.  There is also a study to go with the book of Ephesians.

I received a copy of this book from Hachette Book Group as part of the FirstWord Bloggers reviewers program for my honest review.  Thank you!

Have a day of blessings! 
   Bethany