"On-The-Go Devotional: 200 Devotions for Teens"

My review...

As I’ve mentioned numerous times in the past, I really enjoy devotional books. I read a number of them each year. I haven’t read many with a focus on teens, so I was interested in checking this one out.

This book would work well for all teens. It’s size makes it quite portable. They’re short, so the passages could easily fit into a teen’s busy schedule.

Each devotion has a similar structure: a verse, (CSB translation, a version that is easy to understand), the message, a “to go” section that contains an additional verse for the reader to check out and an “action” to ponder for the day. (This could be challenging for some people who may not have a Bible with them.)

The book is divided into various topics, including humility, God’s love for us, how we love God, forgiveness, faith, joy, worship, heart, mind, soul, hope, friends, prayer, family, church, testimony, salvation, holiness, freedom, and worry. So, there’s likely to be devotions that will hit home and touch on needed topics for each reader. Each devotion contains “bullet points” of the key points for the message.

While this book is geared toward teens, I think it could be enjoyed by readers of just about any age. I’m past the target age group, and I found the devotions informative and thought-provoking. It’d make a great gift for those people in your life that you’d like to introduce to devotions.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

"New Every Morning: 365 Days of Worship"

My review...

I love devotional books, so I was excited to review this book, which is a compilation of devotions written by various worship pastors, university professors, and ministers of music. The book is designed for use with individuals, as well as worship teams, making it unique from other devotional books I’ve read in the past.

The setup is pretty standard, as each entry starts with a Scripture passage, a message, reflection questions, and a prayer. It also gives brief information on the person who penned the devotion. The book is organized by week of the year vs. a specific date on the calendar, so you can start it at any time. I liked the variety of entries, but I didn’t care for the super-small print, which would narrow the audience for this book. I was also surprised that it didn’t contain a ribbon bookmark, which is quite common in devotional books.

Some titles include: Worship as an Act of Sacrifice, Be Still and Worship, Seeing Clearly through Blind Spots, He Sings Over Me, Let God Lead, and What? Me Worry?

Some verses used include: Isaiah 6:8, Psalm 46:10, Proverbs 19:21, and Mark 12:30.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Purchase link

"Playing for More" by Case Keenum

My review...

If you are a fan of football, this may be one book to add to your list. With a foreword from Tony Dungy, this book chronicles Case Keenum’s journey from childhood to being on top after winning the Super Bowl. Along the way, in addition to learning his football path, the reader also learns about Case’s faith journey. And, for him, faith comes first, then family, then football.

In a world seemingly full of negative news everywhere you turn, it’s refreshing to read a positive story, such as Case’s (and it was fun to see my favorite team, the NY Giants, mentioned a few times, as well!). Case is upfront about the fact that he is a Christian first and foremost, and he uses football to glorify God.

While this book could be read by anyone, there is a lot of technical talk and name-dropping, so it would be best enjoyed by a football fan. Overall, it is a quick read.

A few of my favorite quotes include:

·        “Faith is the foundation for everything.”

·        “I don’t care what your goal is … Christ comes before everything.”

·        “God has you right where He wants you. He has put you exactly where He intended to. And He has equipped you for that time.” (advice to Chase from Vikings’ long-time chaplain Tom Lamphere)

Disclaimer: I received a copy from the publisher (B&H Blogger Program), but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About Case...

Case Keenum has traveled one of the most unique paths of any NFL quarterback. Case received only one scholarship offer, from the University of Houston, and went undrafted despite breaking multiple NCAA football passing records. He has overcome every obstacle to become a successful starting quarterback. In 2017, Keenum captured America’s imagination by leading the Minnesota Vikings to a 13-3 record and an NFC North title. His game-winning touchdown in the final seconds of their divisional playoff game against the Saints, the “Minneapolis Miracle,” made Case part of NFL history.

Keenum holds the all-time college football mark for passing yards (19,217), touchdown passes (155), total touchdowns (178), and completions (1,546). He was Conference USA Freshman of the year in 2007, Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year in 2008 and Conference USA Most Valuable Player in 2009 and 2011. He is one of only two quarterbacks to win the Sammy Baugh Award for the nation’s outstanding passer twice (2009 and 2011).

Keenum signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent in 2012. He has a record of 20-18 as an NFL starter with the Texans, Rams, and Vikings. He posted career-highs in passing yards and touchdowns with Minnesota in 2017 and signed with the Denver Broncos in March 2018.

365 Trivia Twist Devotions: Fun Facts and Spiritual Truths for Every Day of the Year by B&H Kids

My review...

I couldn’t wait to receive this book. I love devotionals, and this one sounded unlike any I’ve ever read. It contains fun facts and spiritual truths for every day of the year. Each day lists a devotion pertaining to an event for the day. For instance, September 12^th is celebrating the fact that in 1984, Michael Jordan signed a contract to play basketball with the Chicago Bulls. It goes on to outline some highlights from Jordan’s career, then moves on to how we all have dreams and plans for our future. The Bible verse for the message is Psalm 138:8. The other “fun fact” for the day is that it is Video Games Day.

The book is a bit larger than most devotional books, and there are fun illustrations throughout. Even though the book is geared toward children, any trivia lover (including adults) will enjoy this.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from B&H Publishing Group as part of their Blogger program. I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"In Bloom" by Kayla Aimee

My review...

Have you ever struggled with insecurity, fear, felt you were less than enough, or wasted too much time comparing yourself to other? If you can say “yes” to any of these, then this is a book to add to your TBR (to-be-read) pile.

Aimee’s latest contains numerous personal stories in an honest, transparent way. She discusses her struggles with insecurity and finding her identity in Christ, and she wants to help the reader do the same. Various areas are addressed, including our bodies, our gifts, our relationships, and our pasts. The reader will likely find at least one area relatable. Aimee’s writing style is very conversational, and it often feels like she’s speaking right to you (and that she has been spying on you, as well!). Appropriate scripture verses are referenced throughout. Despite the seriousness of the topic, there are a number of humorous scenes. There is a study guide included for individual or small group study, along with links to download journaling pages, scripture affirmations, and more. This book would be appropriate for women of all ages, including teens, as self-doubt and insecurity can occur at any age.

Some of my favorite quotes are:

• “Because regardless of our age, we all just want to fit in.”
• “We all just want someone to tell us we matter.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the B&H Blogger Program/Launch Team, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"The Psalms & Proverbs Devotional for Women"

My review...

This devotional book is a compilation of devotions by a number of women based only on Psalms and Proverbs. The imitation-leather cover is beautiful, though mine did feel a bit slippery to hold. Perhaps that will change with use. Scripture is from a few different Bible versions (NKJV, ESV, NIV, CSB, NASB, and HCSB).

As with most devotional books, this would make a nice addition to a daily Bible-reading play, as the devotions are short, taking no more than a few minutes to read. The readings are numbered vs. adhering to the calendar year, so the reader can feel comfortable starting it at any time during the year. Each devotion begins with a title and verse, followed by the devotional message, and ending with a short prayer. Each one also contains lines for personal reflection.  The readings tend to be a bit more “instructive” than in some devotional books, as the focus seems to be on teaching. However, there are many personal stories from the writers’ lives, so there is likely to be something relatable for most, if not all, readers. The font is a bit small, so that could be a problem for some readers. Perhaps a large-print version will be released at some point.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the B & H blogger program. I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon link for purchase

"A Moment to Breathe" devotional

My review...

I love devotionals, so I was excited to have the chance to review this one. The topic immediately caught my eye: 365 devotions that meet you in your everyday mess.

This book would be a wonderful addition to daily Bible study for women of all ages who looking for a moment to breathe. (In fact, the devotions provide you with that moment to just take a breath and listen to what God has to say.) The devotions are written by numerous women. The format is: title, Bible verse, message, and prayer/reflection question. Many of the women are familiar names in the Christian industry, such as Renee Swope, Emily P. Freeman, Kristen Strong, Ann Swindell, and Lisa-Jo Baker. The personal stories will likely be relatable for many women.

One thing that makes this book a bit different from other devotionals is that it does not specify a calendar day for each devotion. Therefore, the reader can easily start at any time of the year instead of feeling the need to wait until January 1st. It also contains a ribbon bookmark. Each message is short, no more than a page, so it only takes a few minutes to read and get encouraged. It is a small book, so it would be easy to travel with, as well. The one thing that did surprise me was that all of the devotions did not necessarily center around what I believed to be the topic of the book, taking a moment to breathe. However, I still found them useful and relevant, for the most part.

At the end of the book is a list of the contributing authors/bios/devotions written, as well as a Scripture index.

A few of my favorite quotes include:

·       “Store up grace — for yourself and others — by treasuring the truth and beauty that’s found in God’s Word.”

·       “Do you ever wish for a billboard sign to point you in the right direction? Open His Word and seek Him there. Because He promises you’ll find Him when you seek Him with all of your heart.”

·       “Can you look over your life and see a closed door that eventually led to something more beautiful than you imagined? Tell Him how grateful you are for the way He moves in ways, often unseen, on your behalf.”

·       “Whatever unforeseen delay you may encounter today or this week, see it as a gift, a chance to listen, to lean in and hear Him calling you to Himself.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the B&H/Lifeway blogger program. I was not required to leave a positive review.

Amazon link for purchase...

"Giddy Up, Eunice" by Sophie Hudson

Hudson’s latest is designed to show that while women need Jesus in their lives, they also need other women. She intends to showcase in this book that “what we have in common far exceeds any perceived generational differences.”

In her latest book, Hudson brings a biblical approach to female relationships by using Elizabeth and Mary, Naomi and Ruth, and Lois and Eunice. In addition to incorporating Scripture throughout, the author shares personal tales, as well. She uses cross-generational mentors to show that older and wiser women have a number of things to share with younger women, and vice versa. The pairs deal with heartbreak, redemption, legacy of faith, and finding your calling. The author is likely to have the reader laughing and crying throughout this thought-provoking book. This book would work well for a small group study, too.

It is apparent that Hudson has a heart for God and other women. She incorporates a number of modern references (television shows, cell phone apps, etc.) to keep things relevant for today’s reader.

Hudson has a southern wit to her writing which is very engaging. If you want to try out some of Sophie’s writing before buying one of her books, you can check out boomama.net  This is a blog she’s had for over ten years.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy as part of the B&H blogger program in exchange for an honest review.

Amazon link for purchase:

http://amzn.to/2bqoqyI

The Illustrator's Notetaking Bible for Teens

Do you like to take notes in your Bible? Are you a fan of coloring? If you said "yes" to both of these questions, then this Bible is for you! It is perfect for Bible journaling.

What was my first impression of this Bible? I loved it! There are over 600 illustrations to color, as well as wide margins for taking notes (or adding your own illustrations, if you're inclined to do so!). 

This Bible is the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) translation, which is very easy to read and understand. At the beginning of the Bible, there is a description of the HCSB translation, for those unfamiliar with it. There are questions throughout the Bible which help the reader in their study. These include: 

• How to read and study the Bible
• What makes the Bible so special?
• If I can't see God, how do I know He's real?
• Why does God allow evil?
• What's your worldview?

The Bible lays flat, making it very easy to read, color, or take notes. It contains twelve pages of "study helps," which includes the bullet notes (something specific to the HCSB Translation). A yearly study plan is listed in the back, as well as numerous colored maps. There is also a beautiful ribbon marker. It is written in 8-point text and contains 1376 pages.  It is the perfect size to allow creativity, as well as be a functional Bible for everyday reading and study.

While this Bible is labeled for teens (ages 11-18, or grade level 6-12), I feel it is appropriate for adults, too :-) It would be a perfect addition for someone wanting to share the Bible journaling experience with their daughter, sister, etc. If you are looking to deepen your spiritual walk, this is certainly a Bible to check out.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the publisher as part of the B&H Blogger Program in exchange for an honest review.

Here's the link to the Bible on the publisher's website, where it can be purchased. 

http://bit.ly/2a7XSnM

The HCSB Notetaking Bible: Great for journaling!

The HCSB Notetaking Bible contains the Holman Christian Standard Bible translation, and it is designed to help the reader create a deeper connection to the Word. The Bible is written in a single-column format, with ruled margins on each page.  A concordance, eight pages of maps, a one-year Bible reading plan, and an introduction to this translation of the Bible are included.

I found the HCSB translation accurate and easy to understand, though some people may be unfamiliar with it. Two-inch margins are perfect for notes, drawings, prayers, reflections, etc. The cream-colored pages are a similar thickness to other Bibles I own. Ghosting is possible, depending on the medium used. The cover is bonded leather with a moleskin appearance, and the Bible lays flat quite nicely, making it easy to use. Some readers may find the 8-point text size to be a bit small, but it allows the Bible to be a manageable size. It would be nice for this to be offered in a larger font, as well. People with large handwriting may find the lines to be a bit too close.

A unique feature to HCSB Bibles is the "Bullet Notes." These notes explain frequently used words or terms. The words/phrases are only marked with a bullet the first time they occur in a chapter. This list helps add greater understanding to what is being read.

I do a daily reading plan each year, and I really enjoy having a reading plan included at the back of the Bible.

I'd recommend this Bible to anyone looking for a way to enhance their spiritual walk.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the publisher as part of the B&H Blogger Program in exchange for an honest review.

Life Verse Creative Journal Set by Jana Magruder and Morgan Grace Magruder

I was very excited to receive this journaling set in the mail. I enjoy the new adult coloring trend, and I also do Bible journaling.  I felt that this set would be a perfect complement for both of them. I was correct :-) The small size of this journal makes it extremely portable, but don’t let the size fool you, as there is a lot packed in little book. The journal encourages creativity and provides an easy way to add a daily dose of Scripture, as well as meditation, to your day. There are numerous images to color, and some have blank places for the reader to add in their own touch to the included picture. A number of popular verses are included. The set also comes with a completely blank journal to use. This would make a wonderful gift for just about anyone.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

"The Prince Warriors" by Priscilla Shirer and Gina Detwiler

Xavier and Evan realize that there is a larger battle going on than most siblings experience. Evan is reading a book about a fierce warrior who is a prince and lives in Ahoratos, a land filled with beautiful castles and mountains. The book seems to come to life, and the brothers find themselves in Ahoratos, where they meet their guide Ruwach. He informs them that they are princes who must always be equipped with their armor, as the battle and enemy are real in Ahoratos. Cryptic messages and biblical truths are given to them throughout the story. Will it help them with their battles?

This is the first book in the “Prince Warriors” series, and it is based on Ephesians 6:10-18. It is designed for middle grade readers (ages eight through twelve), but it could be enjoyed by adults, too. It is appropriate for boys and girls. The characters and dialogue are realistic in this quick read. The characters show the reader the power of prayer and remind them that everyone is designed to be a warrior. There are some illustrations and strong spiritual tie-ins.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Amazon link for purchase:

http://amzn.to/1WLRQsE

"Fervent" by Priscilla Shirer...and a GIVEAWAY!

B & H Publishing Group provided me with an extra copy of this book, and I'm happy to offer it to one lucky person. To enter, go to the Rafflecopter box at the end of the post. You must enter by October 31, 2015. If you're the randomly chosen winner, I'll contact you for your mailing information (US ONLY).  Good luck!


I will admit I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I went to see War Room. I did not plan to leave the theater feeling blown away, but that is exactly what happened. This movie has such a powerful message. While it is geared (in many ways) for married couples, I believe anyone could benefit from watching this movie. So when I had the opportunity to read and review this book, inspired by the movie and written by one of the main actresses in it, I jumped at the chance. I’m so happy I did. I’m thrilled that the publisher allowed me to have a copy to give away to one lucky person. My copy is flagged and highlighted after just one time through it. This book is a wonderful resource for an individual or small group. While it is designed for women, I feel there are things in this book which can be utilized by anyone. I hope you find this book as encouraging and helpful as I do.

My Review...

This book is different from just about any other one I have ever encountered. It is designed to be used and lived, not just read. There is so much to digest, so be sure to allow ample time when working through the chapters. It is not a theological discussion, but a hands-on resource. It is well-organized, easy to follow, and thought-provoking. It is so relatable, particularly as Shirer includes a number of personal stories. The enemy is set on destroying us, but we don’t have to allow it.

As Shirer notes, a main purpose of her book is to get God’s fence of protection around us, and learning the correct way to pray, specifically with precision, is key. Prayer is the fuel that drives everything, and the enemy is out to hit us hardest in the following areas: our passion, our focus, our identity, our family, our confidence, our calling, our purity, our rest and contentment, our heart, and our relationships. Shirer points out that these are the areas we need to focus on. She encourages the reader to write out prayers, and there are perforated prayer strategy pages at the end of the book for this purpose. “You write out your prayers so you ‘won’t forget’… won’t forget who the real enemy is, won’t forget the One in whom your hope lies, won’t forget your real need and dependencies, and, later, won’t forget the record of how God responds.” The latter can be noted in a prayer journal.

When we pray, it should include praise, repentance, and asking.  I love the one acronym she uses in the book:

Prayer Releases All Your Eternal Resources

Each chapter ends with biblical passages and promises that can be used to create specific prayers for each of the ten areas listed above. Fervent prayer needs to be focused!

While there are a number of wonderful reminders in this book, one of my favorites is:  “These areas of greatest fear and anxiety in your life are clues to some important spiritual information. They reveal… that a personalized strategy has been insidiously put in place to destroy your vibrancy and render you defeated.” We are truly in a battle, but it is not one we have to lose. By following the strategies outlined by Shirer, the reader will be better prepared for battle, complete with the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shoes of peace (the full armor of God, as mentioned in Eph. 6:10-17).  So, grab your notebook and pen and dig in!

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the publisher (B & H Publishing Group) in exchange for an honest review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway