Tea Attitudes: A Blend of Tea, Life & Faith

Tea Attitudes: A Blend of Tea, Life & Faith

by Pamela G. Kennedy

 Perfect for the tea lover in your life, this devotional is full of warmth and goodness!  

Devotional share personal experiences from the author and draw the reader in to the connection to scripture and application to life.  Whether or not the reader has shared a similar experience to the story or not, they are easily relatable and applicable to life.  The scripture ties are on point and invite consideration and thought.  The end of each devotional invites the reader to then journal and respond, further applying the reading to their lives and deepening the connection to the scripture for each devotional.  This book can be read as a short daily devotional or as a weekly supplement.  Short enough to get through in a small amount of time, yet packed with good thoughts and applicable Bible references, it is a great little book to have on hand or to gift.

As a tea lover, I was drawn to read this book, but it went beyond that as soon as I began reading and considering the ways I could then apply them to my life.  I loved the added bonus of being able to then respond and write, which I felt further helped cement the thoughts into my mind and encouraged me to think on them in the days to follow.  The cover is cute and inviting, the writing easy to understand and read, and the whole package is perfectly executed and well thought out.  I already have plans to purchase copies for the tea lovers in my life, because I know they will appreciate it too!

Get a copy for yourself and see!

Amazon

Read my review and others:

Good Reads

Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book for free in exchange for my honest and un-biased review.  All thoughts are my own and otherwise not compensated.

Anchor My Soul

 

Anchor My Soul

by Andrea P. Bourgeois

If anything, the past two years have taught each of us that life has storms we cannot be prepared for.  Whether these storms be acutal natural storms, or the emotional and physical trials this life throws our way, we are bound to face pain and struggle in this life.  

Andrea P. Bourgeois tackles this thought in a manner that offers hope and the idea that God has a purpose for your pain.  Through a memoir of 25 women's stories as they walked through storms of life, the reader also learns of the author's experience living through Hurricane Laura during the Covid-19 Pandemic.  This collection of stories offer a glimpse into the ways God remains steadily with us, offering love and mercy when we are desperate and struggling.  

The heartbreaking honesty of the stories shared by the collective of writers is relatable and genuine.  No matter what the difficult season one may be facing, whether it be a natural disaster or a personal circumstance, there is hope in these pages, found in the words of other women who have also walked difficult paths of pain, frustration, fear, anxiety, despair, loneliness, grief and shock.  In reading their stories, there is a glimps of encouragement and God's steadfast love.

I was detached from the hurricane season during the pandemic, living in a state nowhere near this type of threat, but walked my own line of trial and tribulation through the anxiety the pandemic brought, in addition to the other pitfalls that seemed to fall in my path as though a hurricane had indeed passed through my life.  Reading these stories, one at a time, and thinking through the prompts included at the end of each memoir, I found myself relating in many ways and finding ways to make conections between the pain of another and myself, even with un-related situations. 

I recommend this book to any woman walking through a season of despair, whatever the source.  It is not a cure-all, a self-help, or even and quick fix, but instead a way to reflect and realize God's love and faithfulness.

Available from: https://amzn.to/3BWonG2
Publisher: Arabelle Publishing at http://www.arabellebooks.com/

Instagram: @arabellepublishing

Facebook: @arabellebooks

Twitter: @arabellebooks

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Andrea P. Bourgeois is the Co-Founder and Host of Pain into Purpose Virtual Summit. Along with 30 guest speakers, she shared personal testimonies that led to healing, restoration, and freedom in Christ. With a heart for serving teens and women, Andrea is involved in many ministry events, and speaks at churches and women's groups. She recently released her first book, a Bible study, Just Breathe: A Modern-Day Exodus Journey to Revive Your Soul. Anchor My Soul is her second book. Visit Andrea at andreapbourgeois.com.

Disclaimer:  I recived a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for my honest and un-biased review.  The opinions expressed are fully my own.

Fearless & Free by Victoria Osteen

Fearless & Free

by Victoria Osteen

New to the book world, an empowering devotional that will help you Live Confidently, Believe Expectantly and Embrace Your Victory!

New York Times bestselling author and wife of famed pastor Joel Osteen, Victoria carries many qualifications including radio host, co-pastor of America's largest church and more.  She has years of experience in the Christian ministry and is a noted and well liked writer and leader.

In her new devotional, Fearless & Free, there are 47 devotionals.  These are not just one page snap devotions, but rather a themed read along with a few Bible verses and a scripted prayer.  Each devotional covers a topic to help guide readers realized what it means to "live fearlessly in the truth that God has already set them free."  With titles like " Fear Is Not the Boss", "Release It to God",  "Grow In Joy", "Your True Identity" and more, each devotional chapter is set to encourage, instruct and empower the reader along on a journey to spiritual freedom.

I have enjoyed picking this book up each morning, it has been a refreshing difference to the typical one page devotionals I had been reading.  Especially in the middle of a very fear-filled time in history, I have found much release and encouragement from the words in this book!

You can get your hands on a copy of this new release on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other book sellers now!

* I received a free copy of this book for promotional purposes.  I was not compensated in any way for this review nor was I required to write a positive review.  All thoughts expressed are my own.

Read my reviews on

Good Reads

Barnes & Noble

Amazon

Because He Lives

Because He Lives
by Jennifer Flanders

Just in time for Easter, a new book enters the scene, set to prepare hearts and minds for the Easter season.  In her devotional journal, Jennifer Flanders has designed a unique experience to guide readers through the life of Christ in order to better explore what Jesus gave in his sacrifice on the Cross. Beginning with a study of the prophecies foretelling his birth, walking through His birth, life, ministry, death and resurrection, this is a book filled with opportunity to learn, grow and reflect. 

This book has options for all readers.  There are blank pages for journaling, drawing or whatever you choose.  There are plenty of black and white historic images scattered througout to enhance the thoughts as well as offere those who enjoy coloring the chance to do so.  Every page is scripture based and offers the chance to incorporate a Bible study into the experience, whether by simply reading the verse, taking time to reflect and journal about it, or dive deeper into it.

The artwork in the book is pretty, but not exactly my taste.  I would have liked to see some pages with just plain design work, not necessarily a person or scene.  The images with people are very religious feeling, what I would equate to old texts, which does make it feel a little dated.  Change up some of the pictures and I would love it even more.

I have enjoyed exploring this journal and beginning to use it in preparation for Easter.  With 15 main sections, each with many pages, there is a lot to do and this could be a resource that could be used from Christmas forward to Easter.  I have enjoyed coloring some of the pictures, done some hand lettering in open spaces, done a bit of journaling, some scripture study and sometimes just left the page untouched aside from my eyes.  I love that there are so many options within the pages of this book.  It is not just a journal, or just a coloring book, but a variety book, and therefore more widely marketable.

I can see this being a useful tool for study groups as well as individual use.  I've even had some fun allowing my children to help me fill some of the spaces.  I find this book well done!

You can find a copy of this book here

* I was provided a complimentary copy of this book through Book Crash in exchange for my review.

ATG Today

Awakening To God Today (ATG Today) is a beautifully simple devotional journal in app form, created to inspire users to find 8 minutes each day to seek God through a series of simple steps.

Using this app is simple and can be done in a few quick moments in the day.  It is a great step toward getting into the Bible more, deepening one's prayer life, recording prayers and answers to prayer, journaling and more, all in one place.  Once registered, the user simply logs in and is greeted by a daily Bible verse.  This verse can be used for reflection, memorization, or deeper study.  From here, the verse can be shared if desired via social media platforms.

Beyond the daily verse, users can chose the "inspiration", "timeline", "add", "photos" or "calendar" tabs to go further.

Inspiration: The daily verse and option to share via social media
Timeline: Lists the days the user has made an entry with option to click the date and read what was entered
Add: Guides the user through prompts to create an entry that will then be store in the timeline.  Here, users can choose day or night and then add a picture and answer the following prompts:

1. Day
1. Lord, I thank you today for..
2. I believe God is speaking to me today about...
3. Lord, I pray today that you will...
2. Night
1. How did God touch my life today?
2. What more could I have done to reflect God's love today?

Photos: All photos that have been added to an entry can be found here

Calendar: Displays a calendar that users can then click on dates to view entries.

How it works:

  Set up in 1 minute increments, each minute has it's own task to create an 8 minute daily focused time with God

• Minute 1: Still your mind and focus on one or two things to thank God for. Be mindful of why you are grateful for these things.
• Minute 2: Memorize and think on the day's verse
• Minutes 3 and 4: Ask God to fill you with his Holy Spirit.  Listen for God's voice.
• Minute 5: Hand over all of the day's coming tasks and responsibilities to God 
• Minute 6: Think about a way you can reflect Christ 
• Minute 7: Write down what God has shown you
• Minute 8: Thank God and go forward with the day

   Ideally, if you do these steps each day along with your daily entry, you have spent some intentional time with God and begun to develop a habit that can then grow into longer sessions and deeper thought and prayer.

I have found this app to be tremendously helpful for me.  A long time Christian, I have struggled at times to make the time to listen and learn through quiet devotion and prayer.  Especially as a mom of 4 little ones, the time I have is often not my own.  The idea that I can do this in roughly 8 minutes makes it something I can easily accomplish without guilt, even if the kids are already awake.  I love that the app encourages a day starter and finisher to encourage wrapping the day in thoughts of God and His intentions.  The fact that I can easily journal from the same place I enter prayers, thoughts and more makes my quiet time more productive because I don't have to wonder who wrote in my journal or hid it where, or get distracted with doodles and more.

I've been using this app for several weeks now and am loving the habit I am getting into and the ease with which I can use it anytime or anywhere.  For the minimal cost ($3.99), I am very pleased and feel it was worth the purchase.

Created by Gerard and Jeannie Long, this app comes from a history of experiencing God's love and grace through deep trial and personal pain.  This app was created to inspire believers in their walk with Christ.  It also serves to "raise funds for several reasons: to dig wells in 100 villages in India, provide 40,000 meals to widows and orphans, 15,000 mosquito nets, and medical teams for immunizations, cataract operations and other services."

You can watch a video to learn more about the creators' story and their mission here and their promotional video here.

Apple users can click here to download the app and check it out for yourself!

#ATGToday #FlyBy

https://twitter.com/freesample1/status/851881916886331394

* I purchased this app in return for incentive as part of the Fly By Promotions program.  All thoughts and opinions are honest and my own regardless of incentive.

VeggieTales Every Day with God Devotional review

VeggieTales Every Day with God
by VeggieTales

With three girls in the house, I have resigned myself to having girly toys, books and games.  Realizing that girls and boys are divinely designed differently, I love that VeggieTales has embraced the idea of providing a devotional just for girls (or boys), full of all things pink and girly that VeggieTales has to offer while being filled with Biblical truth and promise.

We have enjoyed reading through the daily devotionals together with our 6. 4. and 2 year old.  Each of the 365 devotionals is a full page with one devotional based on a stated Bible verse with scriptural reference.  In addition to the devotional, there is a thought for the day and a short prayer.  Pages are filled with bright colors, familiar VeggieTales characters and engaging visuals to keep little ones attentive.  Devotionals are short and to the point for younger listeners or readers, but complex and thought provoking enough to engage my oldest and offer opportunity for discussion.

Anyone who has VeggieTales fans in their home will find fun and value in this devotional.  It is the perfect addition to our home and offers us the chance to talk about God and the Bible daily with our little ones without it becoming overwhelming or confusing.  We are enjoying the topics and the chance to bring God to them in this fun way.

You can find a copy of the Girls' Devotional here, or the Boys' Devotional here

I have the opportunity to give a copy away to one of my readers (boy or girl's edition).  Simply comment with which version you would prefer (Boy or Girl) for a chance.  Winner will be chosen by 9am on September 26, 2016.

*Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

VeggieTales Every Day with God Devotional review

VeggieTales Every Day with God
by VeggieTales

With three girls in the house, I have resigned myself to having girly toys, books and games.  Realizing that girls and boys are divinely designed differently, I love that VeggieTales has embraced the idea of providing a devotional just for girls (or boys), full of all things pink and girly that VeggieTales has to offer while being filled with Biblical truth and promise.

We have enjoyed reading through the daily devotionals together with our 6. 4. and 2 year old.  Each of the 365 devotionals is a full page with one devotional based on a stated Bible verse with scriptural reference.  In addition to the devotional, there is a thought for the day and a short prayer.  Pages are filled with bright colors, familiar VeggieTales characters and engaging visuals to keep little ones attentive.  Devotionals are short and to the point for younger listeners or readers, but complex and thought provoking enough to engage my oldest and offer opportunity for discussion.

Anyone who has VeggieTales fans in their home will find fun and value in this devotional.  It is the perfect addition to our home and offers us the chance to talk about God and the Bible daily with our little ones without it becoming overwhelming or confusing.  We are enjoying the topics and the chance to bring God to them in this fun way.

You can find a copy of the Girls' Devotional here, or the Boys' Devotional here

I have the opportunity to give a copy away to one of my readers (boy or girl's edition).  Simply comment with which version you would prefer (Boy or Girl) for a chance.  Winner will be chosen on September 27, 2016.

*Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

ESV Family Devotional Bible Review

ESV Family Devotional Bible
by Crossway

I had been looking for an appropriate devotional to use with my young children at home when the opportunity to review this devotional Bible came my way.  I was immediately impressed with this book the minute I held it in my hands.  This is a high quality hard covered book filled with color pictures, 130 of them!  While it is in fact an actual Bible in the ESV (English Standard Version) translation, it is also a devotional too.  The perfect combination that puts everything in your hands for family devotion time with children in the home.

Each devotional story is on a colored page.  The illustrations that go with each devotional are high quality, full detail, painting like pictures - not cartoonish, but featuring real looking people and scenes.  The devotional stories fall in line with their location in the Bible, so they can be used individually or as a family study.  The Biblical references are provided for the story's location within the Bible as well as a verse for memorization or discussion that ties the story to the surrounding scripture.

The devotion stories are written in a way that young children (ages 4+) can understand, while being complex and detailed enough to challenge older children into their early teens.  The common children's bible stories are discussed within the devotionals, such as Adam & Eve, David & Goliath, Jonah, etc. as well as many more not so mainstream stories.  Following each story are a few questions to prompt discussion and further learning for the devotional time.  With younger children, we have skipped over this section most times, just focusing on the stories for now, but I will definitely be going back around to use these again in a few years.

I have enjoyed this book as an adult, and have learned things I had not before picked up or heard. The questions have prompted me to think and I love the potential they provide for teaching my children.   My children (4 & 6) have learned things and really enjoyed exploring the pictures as well as hearing the many different stories.  All around, I love this book and have already been telling my friends with children all about it and recommending it.  This is a perfect combo book for every Christian family with children!

You can find a copy here

The cool thing is that I get to GIVE a copy away to one of my followers!  So, if you are interested, simply leave a comment with the ages of your children and you are entered.  The winner will be selected randomly on Monday, May 16 at 9am.

*  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Limitless: Devotions for a Ridiculously Good LIfe

 

Limitless: Devotions for a Ridiculously Good Life
by Nick Vujicic

Yet another fantastic book written by the inspiring and encouraging Nick Vujicic.  This devotional is packed with 50 devotionals on the topics of hope, blessings, faith, passion, servanthood and so much more.  Each begins with a bible verse, contains a 2 page devotional with stories from Nick's life to offer encouragement and a Life application section to end in which Nick offers focus and ideas to apply what the reader has just absorbed.

I have thoroughly enjoyed each of Nick's books thus far, and was not disappointed when I opened this book.  Fantastic for a gift, it is also perfect for a little time of personal focus.  Full of positivity and real life that makes the reader consider who God is and how He cares for each of us and has a purpose that is different from any others, this is a fun devotional to read.  Straightforward, honest and down to earth yet entertaining and uplifting, it is an enjoyable read.

I highly recommend this book!

You can find a copy at Barnes and Noble .

I received a copy of this book for free to review through the WaterBrook Multnomah Blogging for Books program.  All thoughts expressed are my own, I was in no way compensated for my review or required to write a positive review.