Amish Prayers

by Beverly Lewis (Compilation)

A beautifully illustrated treasury of prayers newly translated from the original German Amish and Mennonite prayer book, with an introduction from Beverly Lewis.

Genres: Amish, Christian, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Christianity, Devotional, Inspirational

139 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2011

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Beverly Lewis, raised in Pennsylvania Amish country and both a schoolteacher and an accomplished musician, has been an award-winning author for over a dozen years. Her acclaimed novel, The Preacher's Daughter, was a 2006 Quill Book Award finalist in the romance category. Her books have appeared on numerous bestseller lists, including USA Today and The New York Times. She and her husband, David, live in Colorado."

Reviews

[Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

Perfect for those who have a hard time finding words for prayer.

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Amish are a unique anti-Baptist religious sect. This small work contains many of their basic prayers without comment. There are even one or two in Dutch. This collection aids in understanding their fundamental religious beliefs.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful little book of prayers that Amish use in their daily lives.

[Shirley (stampartiste) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the reading of these simple prayers and the accompanying scriptures to bring peace and a better appreciation of a daily walk with God through prayer. These prayers were said to originate with the first printing of the Anabaptists German prayer book in 1708. They are simple, yet powerful. They speak of an intimate relationship with the Trinity and a deep understanding of the Christian's purpose on earth and in Heaven. These prayers hark back to a simpler time when man knew he depended on God for his very existence and protection. A wonderful compilation of prayers.

[Alyson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beverly Lewis’ “Amish Prayers: Heartfelt Expressions of Humility, Gratitude, and Devotion” is soothing to the soul, and particularly helpful when the night brings great restlessness. Readers are given a slight glimpse into the ever-private Amish way, and it’s beautiful.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this sweet book of Amish prayers!

[Stacy · Rating 1 out of 5]

did not finish

[Megan Rang · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exactly what it says. It is filled with prayers and scriptures.

[Riley Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful prayer book I read in a single day. Beautifully written. The prayers are short and heartfelt. I will definitely return to this prayerbook time and time again.

[Hebrews13:11-14 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short heartfelt prayers. A very nice book.

[Rebekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book of prayers.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Prayers includes a selection of prayers that have been translated from the original German and is introduced by Beverly Lewis. Each prayer is accompanied by a scripture from the King James Version of the Bible and includes beautiful black and white drawings of the Amish throughout. I found the prayers to be very insightful and with the inclusion of scriptures I think I may make use of this book for devotion guide.

About the Author:
Beverly Marie Jones (Lewis) was born in the heart of Amish country—Lancaster, Pennsylvania. At the tender age of nine, she began writing short stories and poetry.

Beverly's first venture into adult fiction is the best-selling trilogy, The Heritage of Lancaster County, including The Shunning, a suspenseful saga of Katie Lapp, a young Amish woman drawn to the modern world by secrets from her past. The book is loosely based on the author's maternal grandmother, Ada Ranck Buchwalter, who left her Old Order Mennonite upbringing to marry a Bible College student. One Amish-country newspaper claimed Beverly's work to be "a primer on Lancaster County folklore" and offers "an insider's view of Amish life."

A member of the National League of American Pen Women, as well as a Distinguished Alumnus of Evangel University, Lewis has written over 80 books for children, youth, and adults, many of them award-winning. She and her husband, David, make their home in Colorado, where they enjoy hiking, biking, and spending time with their family. They are also avid musicians and fiction "book worms."

You can find out more about this author by visiting her website at http://www.beverlylewis.com/

[Marie Ralston · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amish Prayers is compiled by Beverly Lewis. This book is a series of prayers which has been divided into different categories such as prayers for: a new day, divine guidance, gratitude, repentance, comfort, praise, strength, purity in heart, unity, humility, submission and the evening. This book is remarkable in that this is the first time that many of these prayers have been translated from their original source in German to English.

Each prayer is beautifully written and meaningfully phrased to breathe life into the words anew. Illustrations from different aspects of Amish life sketched in brown enhance the simplistic, yet profound meaning uttered in these words. All prayers are also associated with a passage from scripture that biblically grounds the prayer.

Overall, this book is beautifully done. It would be perfect for a gift book or to add to a devotional library. The prayers are meaningful. As I read them, many times I considered the authenticity that the Amish had in their prayer lives in comparison to my own seemingly shallow life that I had thought was once richly average. One of the most beautifully translated prayers is found on pg. 25. It goes:

O Lord, awaken in us a hunger and thirst for you and your righteousness. Teach us to act according to your will, for you are our God. May your good Spirit lead us along the straight path. We commend ourselves to you. Let all of our works be blessed and bring honor to your name and be useful to our neighbors. Make us into tools of your mercy and let us joyfully go forth and practice our calling. Amen

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amish as well as other Anabaptist groups have used the same book of prayers for centuries. Now for the first time a selection of these prayers is readily available in English. This exclusive authentic translation from the original German--with an introduction by Beverly Lewis--will give readers insights into the spiritual foundations of the Plain people. Each prayer is paired with a Scripture passage to draw readers closer to God. This hardcover illustrated gift book is perfect for old and new fans of Amish fiction alike.
I really like this Devotional Book. There is a Table of Contents in the beginning leading you to what you may need that day. Included are several prayers [with sweet Amish drawings] along with the appropriate scripture that applies.
Enjoyed the Foreword by Beverly Lewis the author. She explains the German prayer book Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht has been with the Amish since the first printing in 1708. The written prayers are regarded as a precious possession by both the Amish and the Mennonite. The book includes translated prayers from the original German book. How fortunate we are to be able to enjoy these.
Thank you Beverly Lewis for sharing this with us!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from of Bethany House. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

[Yiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I generally do not favor prayer compilations, as we tend to consider them more than the Bible - a practice that I disagree with, as I believe our prayer should be a personal communication with our Creator. However, I Mrs. Lewis's novels, which depict the Amish people with straightforwardness and a caring heart that reflects their deep communion with God. This sparked my curiosity about this book, knowing that the compilation would be made by someone knowledgeable in the matter, and despite that

No wonder why those characters are so rich and faithful! With prayers like the ones in this compilation, we witness the validity and authority of the Word of God. It includes prayers said in different times of the day, like breakfast, in different moments of life, like death, and even in different attitudes, like thankfulness. Each prayer has a Bible reference from which it takes its inspiration, reminding us how Biblical principles can be applied to different aspects of our life.

There are not enough words to fully describe how special this compilation is. I hold it, and I know I'm holding something special and unique - that is how powerful the Word of God is, the source of inspiration for the prayers.

The essence and main beauty of this book is its expression of trust and faith in the Almighty God, always aligning our whole self to Him. This precious little book reminds us that prayer is a thing from the heart.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for a review. This did not bias my opinion on the book, nor on the author.

[Abbie Riddle · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the pages of this book the very heart of the Amish community is lain open for the world to see. It is in these prayers that were originally printed as Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht in 1708 that we are invited into a deeper understanding of the faith that these people hold so dear. In prayer we each express those convictions of our faith that we hold close, those things that drive and influence us. It is in prayers that communities, families and churches are drawn together into a deeper more intimate relationship with Christ. Prayer reveals the heart of the believer. These prayers are poignant and beautiful - filled with the acknowledgement of the God who surpasses all things of this earth. I am thankful that the Amish community allowed something they consider so precious to be printed and that Beverly Lewis chose to pursue this. This book would be a welcome addition to any one's library of prayers. We are constantly teaching our children little rhyming prayers for bedtime and dinner - why not teach them prayers that are more significant in concern to their daily lives. These prayers are inspirational - causing one to strive for a more holy life, comforting - as they remind one of the great God we serve, and convicting - as they point out the very things we all struggle with and with humility ask for the guidance of God.

thank you Bethany House for this review copy.

[Blue North · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beverly Lewis

AMISH PRAYERS compiled byBEVERLY LEWIS is a beautiful, small prayer book for every moment of a life. I am certain to read and reread prayers over and over again in this book. At the bottom of the page of each prayer there is a scripture verse that fits the particular prayer. The prayers are wide ranging in theme.There are prayers for: unity, gratitude, guidance, praise, strength and for the evening as well as other themes I have not named here.

What I liked most about the prayer book is the illustrations on the pages. These pictures are delicately sketched in a light reddish brown, a tint, of some sort. The illustrations alone made me want to stay longer in a quiet place to meditate. My favorite picture is the one of the Amish doll. She is used to illustrate comfort.

This book is a treasure chest of love and worship. The prayers are translated from the original German. It has been used by Amish and Mennonites for over 300 years. In the Foreword Beverly Lewis wrote "I am profoundly honored and most humbled to be connected in any small way to this revered collection."

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: AMISH PRAYERS
Author: Beverly Lewis
Publisher: Bethany House
April 2011
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0882-9
Genre: Inspirational/nonfiction/prayer

AMISH PRAYERS is a selection of prayers from the German Prayer Book, Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht, available in English for our ease in reading—and praying—along with these heartfelt prayers.

The prayers are translated from the original German, with an introduction by Beverly Lewis. She also pairs each prayer with a Scripture passage. Accentuated by beautifully done black and white drawings of the Amish, this will become a book that you will turn to as part of your daily devotions.

Amish children often have to memorize some of the prayers during their growing up years, and they offer insight into the rich spiritual foundations of the Plain people.

I enjoyed reading these book of prayers, and found them to be a wonderful addition to my daily devotions. The prayers are divided up by sections, such as prayers for day’s beginning, prayers for comfort, prayers of submission, and others.

AMISH PRAYERS is a one-of-a-kind collection of inspiring prayers which will help you draw closer to God. $14.99 hardcover. 142 pages.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beverly Lewis has compiled a selection of prayers from the prayer book of the Amish. They are translated from the original German. They are organized into topical chapters such as Prayers for a New Day, Prayers for Comfort, and Prayers for Purity of Heart. Lewis wrote an introduction for the book and paired each prayer with Scripture.

There is a reason that these prayers have been around so long. They are Biblical, thought provoking, and honoring of God. The reader is left with plenty to think about over the course of a day. They express the prayers that I often cannot find the words for. Often, the prompt me into deeper prayer and meditation of Scripture. Not all of these prayers were written for private prayer. Some of them are for groups as well. There is simple, beautiful artwork through the book.

Beverly Lewis is an award winning author of over 80 books for all ranges of ages. She is a member of the National League of American Pen Women. She and her husband are parents and grandparents.


Amish Prayers was compiled by Beverly Lewis, published by Bethany House

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the title says, this is a book of Amish Prayers. I found it to be a great devotional-type book. I'm not one who memorizes or recites prayers. I think they should come from the heart. I like reading them, though, because they give me ideas about things that I should be praying about, but haven't thought about.
Although I love reading about the Amish, I don't share most of their beliefs. I do admire their simplicity and their desire to please the Lord. I think that desire shines throughout this book!
The prayers are divided into sections, and have a Bible verse after each prayer. There's also pencil-type sketches throughout the book. I think it would make a wonderful gift! It's also simply a great addition to YOUR own library, too. ;)

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Admitedly I read this because I loved the irony of reading a e-book version of an Amish Prayer book. But these prayers are beautiful, theologically rich and self reflective. They come from the German prayerbook Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht which is used by the Amish and other Anabaptists. The prayers are arranged here, topically as prayers for: a New Day, Divine Guidance, Gratitude, Repentance, Comfort, Praise, Strength, Purity of Heart, Unity, Humility, Submission and the Evening.

As the internet is a safe place to criticize the Amish, I offer this observation: There are no prayers about God's mission, the lost, evangelism, the outside world. These are community prayers, introspective and Godward. They are Trinitarian and rich, but an outward dimension is missing.

[Princesa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent collection of prayers and Bible verses for daily individual and family prayer time.

This little book contains a collection of prayers, based on the Holy Bible, that allows one to not only pray to God but promotes the edification of your faith. I like the different types of prayers such as morning and e ending prayers, prayers of repentance, submission, unity etc. I use this prayer book for my individual time with God as well as during family devotional time, homeschool and bedtime prayers for my kids. This book of prayers would be great for new believers, seasoned Christians; individuals and families and can be used in all settings: homes, churches, small group Bible studies, homeschool, and so on. Highly recommended for all.

[Kayla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this was a great short read. Beverly Lewis's books are usually good, and this one is no exception. I was hoping for a little more amish stories in it, not just prayers and bible verses. However, it was still a very inspirational book. I didn't really have a favorite prayer or bible verse in Amish Prayers. I liked all of the book equally. It made a great Christmas gift for my mom, who absolutely loved it. It will definitely also make a great gift for anyone who likes Christian or Amish books.

[Margaret · Rating 3 out of 5]

Amish Prayers is a book of common prayers used by the Amish. They are heartfelt, prayers and a nice guide to use when you don't know exactly what to pray. They tend to be on the formal side but that does not take away from the content!

Overall I gained much from the forthrightness and humbleness (is that a word?) of these prayers. This is a book I will keep on my phone/kindle for reference.

This was a free download from Barnes and Noble, part of my personal collection.

Love and Blessings Always,
Margaret

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book is full of prayers that have been prayed by Amish and Mennonite believers for hundreds of years. The prayers came from an old German book written in the 1700's entitled "Prayer Book for Earnest Christians: A Spiritually Rich Anabaptist Resource". This is a book every Christian would benefit from reading.

[Vicki Krivak · Rating 3 out of 5]

English translations of a selection of prayers from "Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht", and early
eighteenth century prayer book that has been used by the Amish and Mennonites for generations. It
was a great, short read. It's a very inspirational book. Would make a great gift for someone.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a book of prayers from the Amish community. It was a good reminder of all the things we should pray for -- repentance, gratitude, our leaders, grace, humility, strength, etc. I found it very uplifting.

[Glenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautiful in every way. It is not just the wonderful prayers to read everyday over and over again, but the size of the book is handy to have by your bedside and the illustrations are simple and meaningful. This is a book you will treasure and keep forever.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very comforting and inspiring book. The prayers in this book were uplifting and helpful. I loved how every prayer ended with a scripture verse, and the chapter illustrations were just lovely.

[Clayton Chase · Rating 3 out of 5]

Help us forget all our hearts' temporal and earthly concerns and only strive earnestly for that which is eternal and of you.