The Prayer Jar Devotional: FORGIVENESS by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

Inspired by New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter’s The Prayer Jars series. . .
 
The Prayer Jar Devotional: Forgiveness delivers the same life-changing inspiration as Wanda E. Brunstetter’s unforgettable stories. Every reading will help you draw closer to your heavenly Father.

Your prayer life will be transformed as you read through these dozens of encouraging devotional readings centered around the theme of forgiveness. With each turn of the page, you’ll discover unchanging truths of God’s Word alongside meaningful prompts that guide you to write out your personal prayers or favorite, grace-filled Bible verses and then add to your very own prayer jar. (Simple instructions are included in the introduction.)

Once you’ve finished reading the last page, you’ll have a full prayer jar of your very own. Use it to infuse your heart with inspiration and encouragement when you need it—or share it with a friend who could use some faith restoration of her very own!

AMAZON     B&N     CHRISTIANBOOK 

MY THOUGHTS.....

This book was released September 1st and it's proved to be a real blessing in my life! Wanda E. Brunstetter shares devotions that focus on forgiveness, and who among us hasn't been challenged with this concept? How many times have we felt like we could never forgive someone's hurtful words or actions? How long should we hang on to those feelings? How long will it take us to truly "let go"? Not to mention the big dilemma...how can we expect to withhold forgiveness, when our Heavenly Father has granted us His Forgiveness?

"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will all forgive you." Matthew 6:14, KJV

All of the devotions have the same format: scripture, a a thought-provoking explanation, and a prayer jar inspiration. There's also a Scripture Index to help you if you're searching for a specific Bible verse. If you want to be challenged, encouraged, and inspired, grab a copy of The Prayer Jar Devotional: Forgiveness. It's a great addition to your worship time and a wonderful gift for the special women in your life!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts. 

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY FORGIVENESS CHALLENGE

I participated in a 7 Day Forgiveness Challenge in regard to this book and it truly was a thought-provoking week! 

I was asked "What song reminds you of forgiveness?  The classic hymn Amazing Grace readily comes to mind but the contemporary worship song by Chris Tomlin is a close second. His version of Amazing Grace tells me that

"My chains are gone, I've been set free

My God, my Savior has ransomed me

And like a flood His mercy reigns

Unending love

Amazing grace!"

I was also a challenged to post a Bible verse about forgiveness that is meaningful to me.  This verse is an especially powerful reminder for me. Yes, I must forgive to be forgiven BUT more importantly, I must never judge and I must never condemn!  

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37

Another challenge was to reflect on something that I need forgiveness for, and then ask God for help in doing this. Each day I need to remember that my past mistakes don't have to rule my future. I've been given a clean slate and I thank God for His mercy!

And finally...

"Forgiveness is a form of gratitude. When we forgive others, we show them the mercy that we have often received and been thankful for."

On the final final day of this 7-Day Forgiveness Challenge, I wrapped up it up by being grateful for amazing grace and blessed assurance! God's grace forgives our sins and we can be assured that "as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." Psalm 103:12 NIV

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. With over 12 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nation's most prestigious bestseller lists and receive numerous awards.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and family ties. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her  Website  Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest

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The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky

ABOUT THE BOOK

In 2012, art historian Gwen Monroe travels to England's Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her prestigious grandfather. While at Longdale Manor, she becomes acquainted with David Bradley--the owner's handsome grandson--who is desperate to save the crumbling estate by turning it into a bed-and-breakfast. When Gwen stumbles upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an intricately carved shepherd's staff similar to one in a photo of her parents, she uncovers a connection to the father she never knew.

In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.

Two women a century apart are taken on a journey to healing, faith, and forgiveness in this heartfelt dual-time Edwardian romance from bestselling author Carrie Turansky.

MY THOUGHTS.....

I'm a fan of this author's historical romance novels but this newest book gave me an added treat. The Legacy of Longdale Manor has two stories that are set in London, but one takes place in 1912 and the other in 2022. Two couples, 100 years apart, experience life in a beautiful English manor, and I loved how their stories became intertwined. There are secrets to uncover, a 100-year-old journal that may offer answers, and an inspirational theme of trust and forgiveness.

Relatable characters, a beautiful setting, and a surprising connection between the two heroines made this a book to enjoy and savor! Turansky's first venture into writing a dual-timeline novel is a great read and I recommend it to all who enjoy Christian fiction!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of more than twenty inspirational novels and novellas and a winner of the ACFW Carol Award, the International Digital Award, and the Holt Medallion. She loved traveling to England to research her latest Edwardian novels including No Ocean Too Wide, Across the Blue, Shine Like the Dawn, and Edwardian Brides series. Her next novel, No Journey Too Far, releases in June 2021. Her novels have received stared reviews from Christianbooks.com and Library Journal. They have been translated into several languages and enjoyed by readers around the world. 

Carrie loves to connect with reading friends on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and via her website and blog: carrieturansky.com.

MY REVIEWS OF OTHER BOOKS BY CARRIE TURANSKY

Seeking His Love

No Ocean Too Wide

No Journey Too Far

View all my reviews

A Royal Christmas by Melody Carlson

ABOUT THE BOOK

Adelaide Smith is too busy for fairy tales. She's been working hard to put herself through law school and now that the end is in sight, she's determined to stay focused on her goals. Then she receives a letter notifying her that she has been found through a DNA registry to be a direct descendant of King Maximillian V, the ruler of a small Eastern European principality called Montovia. She's understandably skeptical. This is the stuff of cheesy made-for-TV movies, not real life.

Although the pieces of this surprising family puzzle seem too good to be true, curiosity gets the best of her. At the king's invitation, Adelaide embarks on a Christmas break trip that is chock-full of surprises, including a charming village, an opulent palace, family mysteries, royal jealousies, a handsome young member of Parliament--and the chance at a real fairy tale romance with a happily-ever-after ending.

Spend this Christmas with bestselling author Melody Carlson as she whisks you away to a royal holiday you'll never forget!

MY THOUGHTS.....

I'm a fan of this author and reading her latest Christmas novella has become a yearly tradition for me. A Royal Christmas is Melody Carlson's latest holiday story, and it is a true delight! Yes, it has a fairytale vibe, but this makes it even more special. Adelaide Smith is a struggling law student who unexpectedly learns that she may be a Princess, and suddenly, she has a father she's never known and a life that she never dreamed of. Can she adapt to being a member of the royal family in the small country of Montovia? Will Adelaide be accepted by the current Queen, or has she become Johanna's rival?

Carlson once again gives readers relatable characters, a touch of romance, and just enough mystery to keep us guessing. She also weaves an inspiring faith message into the enjoyable plot. King Max of Montovia proved to be a man of faith and a very wise ruler, and I appreciate this advice to his daughter. "God's plan in God's time." Shouldn't we all remember that?

If you're looking for a feel-good story that could easily become a Hallmark movie, grab a copy of this book. The cover is gorgeous, Christmas is in the air, and you're bound to get the Christmas spirit! I recommend A Royal Christmas to all who enjoy Christian contemporary fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Revell Reads. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.

She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.

Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.

Connect with Melody

Amazon Author Page       Facebook     Instagram     Twitter

Bookbub          Website

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Seeking Justice by Sharee Stover

ABOUT THE BOOK

An agent and her K-9 partner risk their lives in the ultimate mission

With her partner gravely injured in the line of duty, FBI agent Tiandra Daugherty has one shot to complete her mission. She’ll have to convince her partner’s twin brother, Officer Elijah Kenyon, to take his place undercover in a deadly drug ring. Together they must find justice for his brother and dismantle the gang. But the target is now on them, and the mission could prove fatal.

AMAZON     WALMART

MY THOUGHTS.....

So many doubts, so many misunderstandings! Seeking Justice is a thrilling book filled with danger and intrigue, but author Sharee Stover doesn't stop there. She shares a compelling story of a man who's always felt inferior to his twin brother and an FBI agent determined to bring down a drug cartel. Will Tiandra Daughtery persuade Elizah Kenyon to assume his twin's identity so that this mission can be accomplished?

Seeking Justice has twists, turns, and take-your-breath-away adventures, but I especially enjoyed the human element. I loved watching the trust that develops between Tiandra, Elijah, and her trusted K9 Bosco, along with the strong faith element that Stover always shares in her stories. Seeking Justice is compelling romantic Christian suspense!

I received a complimentary copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Colorado native Sharee Stover lives in Nebraska with her real-life-hero husband, three too-good-to-be-true children, and two ridiculously spoiled dogs. A self-proclaimed word nerd, she loves the power of the written word to transform, ignite and restore. She writes Christian romantic suspense combining heart-racing, nail-biting suspense and the delight of falling in love all in one. When she isn't writing, Sharee enjoys reading, crocheting and long walks with her obnoxiously lovable German Shepherd. 


Visit Sharee at her Website    Facebook    Twitter    Instagram

  

Books by Sharee Stover

Secret Past

Silent Night Suspect

Untraceable Evidence

Grave Christmas Secrets

Cold Case Trail

Tracking Concealed Evidence

Framing the Marshal

Defending the Witness

View all my reviews

Hero Debut (Love Off Script #2) by Angela Ruth Strong

ABOUT THE BOOK

"Another sparkling feel-good romance, brimming with perfect doses of heart and heat!"-- Bethany Turner, award-winning author of The Do-Over

Gemma Bennett is the leading lady of her own life, and her true love is writing screenplays. With her trusty pink notebook in hand, she signs up for the Citizen’s Safety Academy to research her newest blockbuster hope, a rom-com with a police officer as the hero. And the fact that the handsome and heroic Lieutenant Karson Zellner is the one leading the training? Well, who can blame her for wanting to spend evenings with the man she swooned over months ago when he responded to a call at her apartment?

Karson already has his fair share of problems before Gemma shows up, and he's not exactly a fan of the ditzy blonde who can’t seem to stay out of trouble. The last thing he needs is a damsel in distress to rescue; there are plenty of people in real need of his help. The fact that she seems to think his job makes him a superhero is just one more strike against her. This isn't a movie, and he feels like the furthest thing from a leading man.

Gemma can't seem to stop doing the worst, most embarrassing things at just the wrong time. And as time goes on, Gemma begins to realize that the scripts for a perfect screenplay and a real-life happily-ever-after are two very different things. Can she step out of her own way to find the hero her story needs?

MY THOUGHTS.....

This book is a great choice if you're looking for a story that makes you giggle and laugh out loud! Author Angela Ruth Strong shares a delightful romantic comedy that is laden with great characters, humor, and inspiration. We see from the start Gemma's feelings for Karson but it doesn't look like he reciprocates them. Yes, her actions may border on stalking but shouldn't this grumpy hero be flattered?

I loved the quotes at the beginning of each chapter and I also like that Strong offers the points of view of both Gemma and Karson. When you add witty banter with amazing chemistry, the results are a swoon-worthy romance that will make you sigh in satisfaction! Grab a copy of Hero Debut for your own pure reading enjoyment!

I received a copy of this book from Kregel Publications. There was no obligation for a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Angela Ruth Strong survived breast cancer, works as a flight attendant, and uses her own crazy life experiences as inspiration for the stories she writes. Her books have earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been nominated for a Christy, won the Cascade Award, and become Amazon bestsellers. She and her husband also got to play extras when her novel Finding Love in Big Sky was adapted for film. To help aspiring authors, Angela started IDAhope Writers.  She lives in Idaho and blogs regularly on inspyromance and learnhowtowriteanovel.com.

Learn more at her Website. 

Follow her on Facebook     Twitter     Instagram 

Love Off Script Novels

Husband Auditions

Hero Debut

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A Beautiful Story: Jesus & St. Nick by Sarah French & #iReadBookTours

 

Book Details:

Book Title:  A Beautiful Story: Jesus & St. Nick by Sarah French
Category:  Children's Non-Fiction (ages 3 to 8), 32 pages
Genre:  Children's Book
Publisher:  Sarah French
Release date:   Sep 2023
Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.

Book Description:

The Christmas season is here, and you once again have to juggle the story of Jesus with good Ole St. Nick…

…but what if you didn’t have to?

This beautifully illustrated bedtime story teaches children the story behind St. Nick and how he was a follower of Jesus too! Children will learn about the birth of Jesus, the importance of giving, and the reason for many of our holiday traditions.

A Beautiful Story: Jesus & St. Nick will quickly become a family favorite. Parents love the values it teaches, and kids love the way it brings the real Christmas story to life! Make this book a Christmas tradition in your household so your kids will grow up understanding why we celebrate Christmas with certain traditions today. And don’t worry! We don’t give away any holiday secrets!

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N
add to Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS.....

This book is a great choice for anyone who wants their children to know the true story of Christmas but still experience the magic that comes from believing in Santa Claus. Author Sarah French tells the sweet story of a brother and sister who are told that the special baby that was born at Christmas was truly the greatest gift ever given. CJ and Blair learn that the birth of Jesus Christ was the inspiration for the gift-giving tradition that we still enjoy today. Saint Nicholas's desire to give gifts at Christmas may have started in Turkey, but it's now practiced worldwide. Santa Claus may be a symbol of this gift-giving tradition but the act itself is based on a noble idea!

A Beautiful Story: Jesus & St. Nick is truly a beautiful story for young people! There are gorgeous illustrations to capture their attention and an enjoyable story to keep them entertained, but there's also an abundance of Bible scripture that relates the true reason for the season. Perhaps it can even lessen the struggle of Santa Claus versus NO Santa Claus! I love this book and I believe that reading it as a family could become a new holiday tradition!

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via iRead Book Tours. There was no obligation for a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Meet the Author

Sarah French is a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist. She is a broadcast news anchor for the NBC affiliate, WCNC Charlotte.

Sarah joined WCNC from WHDH in Boston, MA. She was the morning anchor there and joined the team in 2011. She was also the host of What's Cooking, How to Help, and Backstage in Boston. Prior to WHDH, Sarah was the morning anchor at WTIC in Hartford, CT. Sarah began her career as a reporter for KOMU in Columbia, MO.

Sarah brings rich experience covering major world events. She was on the ground covering the Boston Marathon bombing, the destructive aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, and the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. She holds three prestigious Emmy Awards. She also received the "Speak for Thyself Award" honoring community advocates and non-profit leaders, as well as Boston’s Most Exceptional Women Honoree.

Sarah is an inspirational champion for several notable causes, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Susan G. Komen Foundation. She is also an advocate for domestic violence victims. After the tragic death of her friend and colleague, Alice Morrin, Sarah worked tirelessly with Connecticut legislators to pass a 911 texting bill after Alice's death.

Sarah is a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism. In 2021, she went back to school and earned her Master of Journalism degree. After covering the Boston Marathon bombing, Sarah decided her research would focus on how to help journalists who cover traumatic events.

​Sarah is a member of Cherokee nation. She grew up in Arkansas and lives in Charlotte with her husband and two kids. They also have two dogs, Buddy and Teddy! Sarah is a huge fan of the theater and enjoys spending her free time with family. Sarah also volunteers in the children's ministry of her church.

connect with author: website

More With Sarah 

Christmas at my grandmother's

My grandmother encouraged me to publish A Beautiful Story: Jesus & St. Nick. She was my biggest supporter. I always loved Christmas at my grandmother’s house. She lived in a small home in Sallisaw, OK. And no matter what time of year it was, it was always Christmas at her house. She left her Christmas decorations up year-round! She had an incredible Santa collection and red trucks all around her Christmas tree. Her house was always so cozy! She didn’t have a fireplace, but it never really occurred to me when I was little how Santa always delivered those gifts. I still remember lying in bed and telling her I heard reindeer on the roof! Sadly, my grandmother passed away this year. I received her Bible after she passed, and it was filled with prayers for all of us. What a blessing she was in my life and so many others. Her favorite verse was John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” I quote this verse in the book. We realized after my grandmother’s passing that she had gone to be with the Lord on March 16th… 3/16. The same as her favorite Bible verse. My grandmother was such an inspiration for this book. I dedicated it to her, as well as my children. I hope when others read it, they walk away with the true meaning of Christmas and also feel the love behind the holiday that my grandmother always created for us in our home.  

Check out this Video!

Enter the Giveaway:

A Beautiful Story: Jesus & St. Nick Book Tour Giveaway

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He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox

ABOUT THE BOOK

Beekeeper Beckett Walsh is living her dream, working alongside her father in their apiary, until his untimely death sends her world into a tailspin. She suddenly finds she must deal with a new part owner of the family business--one who is looking to sell the property. Beck cannot fathom why her father would put her into the position to lose everything they built together.

When Callie Peterson is named in the trust of a man she's never heard of, she's not sure what to do. Her fledgling business has just taken wing and her mother has reentered her life asking for help getting into rehab for her lifelong substance abuse issues, making Callie's financial situation rather . . . precarious. She's sure she has no right to someone else's farm, but the money from the sale could solve her problems and give her the stability she's always craved.

As these two women navigate their present conundrum, they will discover a complex and entangled past full of secrets--and the potential for a brighter future for both of them.

MY THOUGHTS.....

He Should Have Told the Bees isn't a lighthearted read that you can read and set aside. It is, instead, a deep, thought-provoking book that deserves to be read again, slowly! Author Amanda Cox shares a story of love lost, hope regained, and the pain that comes from learning truths that have been hidden. Callie Peterson never knew who her father was and her life with her mother hasn't been happy or fulfilling. How will she deal with the knowledge that she has a half-sister she didn't know existed? Why is she mentioned in a stranger's will?

Cox has created complex characters who are victims of mental illness, alcoholism, and neglect, but she makes sure that they also experience points of light! I loved the references to beekeeping and the joy that Beckett Walsh derives from carrying on her father's life work. There are some suggestions of romance for both Callie and Beck but this isn't a romantic love story. This is a story of family, faith, and friendship, and there are many emotional moments that made me cry. I recommend He Should Have Told the Bees to all who enjoy contemporary Christian fiction and I will be placing it on the keeper shelf in my bookcase!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Revell Reads. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amanda Cox is a blogger and a curriculum developer for a national nonprofit youth leadership organization, but her first love is communicating through story. She holds a bachelor's degree in Bible and theology and a master's degree in professional counseling. Her studies and her interactions with hurting families over a decade have allowed her to create multidimensional characters that connect emotionally with readers.

Learn more at her Website     Facebook      Twitter     Instagram

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Summer in the Spotlight (Prince Edward Island Shores #3) by Liz Johnson

ABOUT THE BOOK

A hurricane may have destroyed her livelihood on Prince Edward Island, but she's determined to save her community

Kelsey Ahern has performed at the Victoria Playhouse on Prince Edward Island every summer since she was seven. But when a hurricane destroys the building, it's not just her memories that are in jeopardy. Her future as a teacher and drama coach are too. She teams up with Levi Ross, the facilities director at the high school, to produce a benefit show to raise money to rebuild the theater. He has a reputation for being able to fix anything, and Kelsey is sure there's more to the quiet man than meets the eye.

For his part, Levi has admired Kelsey for years, but he can't seem to find the words to tell her. When a popular weatherman arrives in town to cover the aftermath of the hurricane and takes an interest in Kelsey and her show, Levi realizes that the time has come to speak up--or lose the heart of the woman he longs for.

Join New York Times bestselling author Liz Johnson for a season of rebuilding, restoration, and romance with this final book in the Prince Edward Island Shores series.

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is the third book of the Prince Edward Island Shores series and it's a wonderful addition to the series. Lighthouses are appealing to me, so I was immediately drawn to the beautiful cover but the story inside is what made this book so special! Author Liz Johnson gives readers one of the best boyfriends/heroes ever! Levi Ross is a man of few words so this makes what he says even more special. His romance with Kelsey Ahern is both sweet and heartwarming, along with their joint efforts to save the Victorian Playhouse. These two are meant to be together, if...they can both work through some personal stumbling blocks!

Summer in the Spotlight is the perfect way to wrap up this series and readers of the other two books will enjoy a reunion with the other two Ross brothers. I recommend this book to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Revell Reads. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Liz Johnson is the author of more than a dozen novels, including A Sparkle of Silver, A Glitter of Gold, The Red Door Inn, Where Two Hearts Meet, and On Love’s Gentle Shore, as well as a New York Times bestselling novella and a handful of short stories. She makes her home in Phoenix, Arizona.

To learn more visit her       Website     Facebook     

                                            Twitter      Instagram

 

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A Place at His Table: God's Daily Gifts to Satisfy Your Heart by Jeannie Waters

ABOUT THE BOOK

Come to the Father's table, where you can find a haven of fellowship with Him. Relax. Take a deep breath. Or even cry if you need to. Discover acceptance in Christ, unconditional love, and so much more. Learn to exchange the unhealthy diet of stress, fear, and worry for God's gifts-His gifts designed to lighten your load, help you shoulder your responsibilities, and strengthen you for victorious living.

In this devotional book, Jeannie Waters welcomes you into stories, set in places like a quaint tearoom, a shady riverbank, or a hospital bedside.

MY THOUGHTS.....

This isn't just a devotional---it's a lovely resource that I will use again and again! Author Jeannie Waters shares 40 devotionals that tugged at my heartstrings, nourished my soul, and reminded me of what I already know but sometimes forget---I truly have a place at God's table. As I read the inspiring thoughts and basked in the encouraging words, I couldn't help thinking about the symbolism of THE TABLE. I have many memories that revolve around a table and some of my earliest are of the wooden table in my grandmother's farmhouse kitchen. I remember her allowing me to "help" her roll out homemade biscuits at that table, and then later sitting there to enjoy those delicious biscuits! My "Mamaw" always had a place at her table and now, I am guaranteed a place at His table! Yes, I knew that Mamaw loved me unconditionally and I'm assured that my Heavenly Father loves me also.

I enjoyed Water's thoughtful observations, the prayer prompts, and the selected scripture, but I also appreciated the wonderful homemaking and decorating tips that are included. This author understands the meaning of friendliness and hospitality, and I felt like I was talking to her personally, and not just reading words on a page! A Place at His Table is a wonderful addition to my devotion time and it will also be a perfect gift for the special ladies in my life!

I received a complimentary digital copy but there was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeannie is an award-winning devotional and article writer and blogger. A wife, mother, grandmother, and retired educator, she understands how women struggle to live in freedom from life’s crippling stress. Her writing equips women to embrace God’s encouragement, swap their burdens for His gifts, and share their blessings with others. Jeannie enjoys family fun and leading an English Club/Bible study for women learning English. 

Visit Jeannie at her Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

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Return to the Garden: Discovering God's Original Design for Women by Rebecca Mann Kelly

 

Book Details:

​Book Title:  Return to the Garden: Discovering God's Original Design for Women by Rebecca Mann Kelly
Category:  Adult Non-Fiction (18+),  224 pages
Genre: Christian Living, Spiritual Growth, Christian Women Living
Publisher:  Throne Publishing Group
Release date:  February  2023
Content Rating:  This Christian book is rated G.

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“Get ready for a fascinating story to grip your heart! Rebecca Mann Kelly has written a powerful book about how God will deliver you from abuse, shame, rejection, and self-condemnation. Read it and be set free!” — Dr. Brian Simmons, Passion & Fire Ministries, lead translator of The Passion Translation

“These life-giving Words will greatly empower and awaken women from all races and status to find their design and true identity in God.” — Paul Yadao, Senior Pastor, Destiny Ministries International, Philippines

“There is no greater time in history for Rebecca Mann Kelly to tell her story, confront archaic lies, and release God’s incredible revelation than right now.” — Annie Byrne, Lead Pastor, Kingdom Culture Church

“Turning your unhealed pain into your greatest strength is the story of the author. My prayer is that this book will bring wholeness to all of his daughters as they experience the truth of God’s character and the beauty of His love.” — Dr. Leif Hetland, President and Founder of Global Mission Awareness, Author of Called to Reign and Healing the Orphan Spirit

---

Book Description:

God formed women in His own image, giving them joint dominion over the earth. Only when sin and the curse entered did they fall into the disastrous path of inequality that has repeated itself in every generation since the garden. Through the telling of her own story, Rebecca Mann Kelly untangles the deceptions that have kept women in places of bondage and captivity, offering a powerful invitation for every woman to Return to the Garden through the power of Jesus.

The reader will discover:

• God’s original Biblical design for women, to have joint dominion and authority over the earth
• How to identify places the curse has manifested in personal life, in society, and in the church
• Jesus’ purpose in coming to earth - to free the captives, and to free women living in captivity to the curse
• How to “open the sails” of the heart, give God hidden heart pain, and learn to feel again
• How to identify patterns of people-pleasing, emotional abuse, and narcissism, and how to get free and remove the yoke
• How to remove the hooks of the manipulation and control of others
• An understanding of how the enemy uses strategies of pride and religion to keep men and women from operating in their original design
• The role of the Holy Spirit in living a victorious life aligned to God’s plan
• How to avoid the trap of the victim and the trap of self-justification, and the role of forgiveness in finding freedom
• The overcoming power of the cross to Return to the Garden

BUY THE BOOK:
Amazon ~ B&N ~ Audible
Bookshop.org
add to goodreads

MY THOUGHTS.....

The scars from emotional abuse may not be visible but they are just as painful and damaging as the ones incurred from physical abuse. The author of this book offers a powerful chronicle of being a victim of her husband's emotional abuse and the steps that she took to gain her freedom. There are eleven chapters in Return to the Garden: Discovering God’s Original Design for Women, and they each have the same format: they begin with Bible scripture and end with Questions and a Prayer to Read Out Loud, but there's so much more. Rebecca Mann Kelly shares the traumatic accounts of her experiences and she's very transparent in describing the disgrace and hopelessness that she felt because of these events.

I've never personally experienced what she describes but I truly admire her determination to help other women. She's chosen to share her own pain and shame so that other victims can experience the joy and freedom that comes from believing and trusting in Jesus Christ. Return to the Garden is an inspiring resource!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher but I wasn't obligated to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Meet the Author:

Rebecca is a follower of Jesus, a business executive, a mom of two energetic boys and was recently married to a wonderful man from Boise. In her 20-year business career, she has led business lines that generated few hundred million dollars of annual revenue, was recognized in Fortune’s 40 Under 40, and has traveled all over the world leading strategic projects. Her kingdom pursuits include a love for God’s presence (wherever it can be found) and serving on the worship team and prayer team at her home church Oceans Church in Orange County, California. Her loves include walks in the hills, any opportunity for karaoke, and when someone else cooks.

connect with the author: website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

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RETURN TO THE GARDEN Audiobook and Book Tour Giveaway

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