Category Archives: Faith-inspiring Books

Books to inspire our faith

2021 Book Review: “FOCUS”

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"Focus" Book Review
“…..but be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” Romans 12:22

To say I have been blessed by reading Cleere Cherry Reaves’ book, “FOCUS”, would be an understatement. This 52-week devotional book, which specifically focuses on one-word weekly, has not only blessed my heart, but hopefully–I am a work in progress–it has changed and transformed my way of thinking about “words” used in the scriptures in a number of ways.

Each week the author would specify the word that you were to concentrate on for an entire seven days. At the beginning of each segment, she wrote a short introductory explanation of that word, along with scripture references for you to look up and focus on for that week.

After four weeks, she included thought-provoking questions to ask yourself about what insights you learned and could apply to your life when you focused on each of those four words.

Since each devotional is “not” dated, I decided to call this a “perpetual word devotional” which you could begin to re-read at the beginning of the new year. So beginning the first week in January 2022, I will begin “anew” to read about the words and scriptures to continue to transform my life in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

Allow one word a week to begin to transform your life forever. I know I have and will continue to find something that perhaps I missed the first time when I begin re-reading “FOCUS” once again in January, 2022.

May the Lord continue to transform our hearts and minds as we “focus” on His words and apply them to our everyday lives.

Blessings,

Yvonne

Friendships Are Vital Relationships–Book Review

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In Dawn Camp’s recent book entitled “The Gift of Friendship”, friendship(s) is defined and explored through the various insights and perspectives of numerous women writers and advice is shared on how to be open to friendships that God brings our way (or we seek out) and what we should or should not do to keep these precious relationships.

Filled with words of advice and wisdom regarding the importance of friendships, the list of contributors share their own personal and inspirational stories which cover such topics as building friendships within our community; being a friend in order to make friends; how to pursue friendships; how and why we need to show hospitality; making friendships on purpose; what we can learn about friendships from our family; being vulnerable in relationships; making a difference in another person’s life; and re-connecting with old friends.

If you are desiring to develop truly vital relationships with others in your community and beyond or want to re-kindle older friendships–those who have perhaps moved to another city or across town–or if you are feeling lonely and just want to develop closer relationships with your friends, then this book will inspire you to reach out and connect with those whom God brings across your path and to re-connect with someone you have lost contact with.

I would encourage you to read this thought-provoking book on the “gift of friendship” which can be purchased through Barnes and Noble, Amazon, and other book stores and/or distributors.

Blessings,
Yvonne

Book Review: “Girl Meets Change” by Kristen Strong

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Life happens and along with it, changes in our lives inevitably occur.

In Kristen Strong’s book, “Girl Meets Change”, she notes that although changes transpire throughout our lives–whether expected or unexpected–we can go through each one with God in control of the outcome. We just need to believe that whatever happens, God will see us through it.

Filled with personal stories of God’s faithfulness during turmoil and challenging situations that occurred in her own life, the author encourages all of us on how to embrace change and to try and see God’s purpose in everything that happens.

If there is a change or changes coming your way, I would encourage you to read Kristen Strong’s book and seek God’s guidance to help you through whatever life throws your way.

Blessings,
Yvonne

Book Review: “Breathing Room” by LeeAna Tankersley

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With so much stress in our lives today on a daily basis, LeeAna Tankersley, author of “Breathing Room”, emphasizes that we should not allow outside forces such as stress to control our lives, and that we need to take responsibility for ourselves.

With an upbeat and positive attitude, Ms. Tankersley shares that being at peace with your inner self and discovering your “soul voice” are very important components in finding your “true self.” Creativity is a big part of who we are; and when we are creative, it gives us a sense of being one with our mind, body, and spirit.

Straight forward, candid, and filled with personal stories of her own struggles from time to time on her journey in life, she encourages us to seek the Creator, the one who gives us grace throughout our life’s experiences.

“Breathing Room” is thought-provoking for anyone who struggles with feelings of low self-esteem and inadequacies. It is truly a breath of fresh air and a worth-while read.

Blessings,
Yvonne

Week 10: “When God Winks At You” by Squire Rushnell (FI Series)

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Extraordinary events happen in our lives every day. Do we just attribute them to coincidences or do we consider that they are “blessings in disguise” from God?

In “When God Winks At You” by Squire Rushnell, a former television president and CEO, he uses stories as told by everyday and famous people to explain that there is no such thing as luck, but that there is a God who does “little things” in and through us as well as other people in our lives to communicate His love for us.

As we walk on our journey in life, God gives us “signposts” along the way to show us that He leads and guides us–through the choices we make–in the direction He has planned for us. Sometimes there are bumps along the way, but these signposts reassure us, chart our path in life, and help us to increase our faith and belief in Him.

God absolutely knows about our every desire, hurts, failures, and triumphs; and when He “winks” at us, He encourages us to trust Him “fully.”

This book will inspire and encourage your heart as you reflect on the many times that God “winked” at you, but you did not recognize it at the time. After reading this book you will gain new insights and hopefully you will understand that He was with you and is currently with you on this journey throughout life by the “little things” that you experience in your every day walk.

Happy reading and blessings,
Yvonne