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Girls with Swords: How to Carry Your Cross Like a Hero
A passionate call for Christian women to effectively "wield the sword" of their God-given feminine strength against any evil that threatens them and those they love.
What if you discovered you have been entrusted with an invisible, invincible, and incorruptible weapon? Would you use it?
In a day of worldwide trafficking, gendercide, discrimination, and other hostility against women, Lisa Bevere points to a biblical foundation to present a model of feminine strength that will empower women to live confidently. Drawing on the many references to swords throughout Scripture, the author constructs a revealing and compelling female paradigm that will impact every area of a woman's self identity, spiritual awareness, relationships, and life vision and mission. Long known for her passionate and articulate expression of biblical womanhood, Bevere presents fresh imagery--as enticing and strong as polished steel--to prepare women boldly for the challenges they face in today's world. It's not enough to just be wise and strong: Now a woman must know how to wield her sword.
Creatively forging the imagery of swords, the Word of God, and the Cross, Girls with Swords will teach you:
• How to speak the language of heaven on earth
• What it means to intercede
• What it means to carry your cross
• What it means to be discerning
• How to disarm the enemy
• Why women are the enemy’s target—and why God needs them to be heroes
It’s time to take up your sword and be a hero.
What if you discovered you have been entrusted with an invisible, invincible, and incorruptible weapon? Would you use it?
In a day of worldwide trafficking, gendercide, discrimination, and other hostility against women, Lisa Bevere points to a biblical foundation to present a model of feminine strength that will empower women to live confidently. Drawing on the many references to swords throughout Scripture, the author constructs a revealing and compelling female paradigm that will impact every area of a woman's self identity, spiritual awareness, relationships, and life vision and mission. Long known for her passionate and articulate expression of biblical womanhood, Bevere presents fresh imagery--as enticing and strong as polished steel--to prepare women boldly for the challenges they face in today's world. It's not enough to just be wise and strong: Now a woman must know how to wield her sword.
Creatively forging the imagery of swords, the Word of God, and the Cross, Girls with Swords will teach you:
• How to speak the language of heaven on earth
• What it means to intercede
• What it means to carry your cross
• What it means to be discerning
• How to disarm the enemy
• Why women are the enemy’s target—and why God needs them to be heroes
It’s time to take up your sword and be a hero.
240 pages, Paperback
First published February 12, 2013
779 people are currently reading
4572 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Bevere
102 books730 followersLisa Bevere is a Christian author of the books Lioness Arising, Nurture, Fight Like a Girl, Kissed the Girls and Made Them Cry, Out of Control and Loving It! Be Angry but Don't Blow It! The True Measure of a Woman, and You Are Not What You Weigh.
In addition to speaking at national and international conferences, she is a frequent guest on Christian television and radio shows. Lisa is also the cohost of the weekly television program The Messenger, which broadcasts to 214 nations. She and her husband, John Bevere, also a best-selling author, make their home in Colorado with their four sons Addison, Austin, Alec, and Arden.
In addition to speaking at national and international conferences, she is a frequent guest on Christian television and radio shows. Lisa is also the cohost of the weekly television program The Messenger, which broadcasts to 214 nations. She and her husband, John Bevere, also a best-selling author, make their home in Colorado with their four sons Addison, Austin, Alec, and Arden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
May 11, 2016
This wasn't really what I was expecting. I honestly could have skipped the whole first section up to chapter 6, which along with a passage in chapter 8, was the most meat in the book. I guess I thought it was going to be more about spiritual warfare in a direct, applicable way, rather than descriptions of how to use God's word as a spiritual weapon. The final chapter was heavy on repetition and was one of the more difficult for me to stay focused on. As other reviewers have noted, Bevere relies heavily on the Message translation, which I feel is fine for everyday reading but when it comes to serious study, I'm not particularly confident in its accuracy. The personal anecdotes/experiences were more helpful than a lot of the rest of the text, and I also feel there should have been some caution about the human tendency to manipulate prayer and Scripture to meet our own ends. Ok for a small group read/discussion, but if you're really wanting to dig in, I would suggest looking elsewhere.
March 27, 2025
You may have been asked the question "are you a lover or a fighter?" many times in your life. There are those of us who picked the answer that seemed best, and those of us that still didn't know. As a follower of Christ, however, we need to be both a lover and a fighter.
What I mean by this is that we must fight for love, and we must fight to love. And you know what weapon God gives us to fight this battle?
A sword.
Swords were always my favorite weapon. I've never wielded a real one, but I've seen how they take down enemies with grace and dignity. To me, swords are more respectable than guns or knives. Because a sword is what every follower of Jesus needs to become a warrior- a fighter for love.
This book was so crucial to me because it explored just how to use your sword and fight for the Lord- how we are chosen, trained, armed, and commissioned. Its target audience was women of all ages, explaining that the evil one loves to prey on us the most because we are God's daughters. I have been so deeply impacted and inspired by the words in the pages. It showed me that we, as His daughters, need to become warriors of Light- His Light.
So what exactly is the sword that God gives us to carry? Obviously we all don't carry around four-foot long blades of destruction, mined from the finest steel of the earth. Our real sword is much more powerful than that. Because our Sword is two things: God's Word and the Holy Spirit. Lisa Bevere made the connection that the words "God sword" can be arranged to say "God's Word."
Essentially, the gospel is what we are equipped with to resist the temptation that the devil throws at us every day- feelings of anger, hate, disgust, and impatience. With our God-given sword, we can fight these battles with Him in our hearts, right at His side. But nobody said that this was an easy fight. Bevere says that "The mightiest weapons may be the hardest to hold", but that doesn't mean we should give up or cower. In fact, it is exactly why now is when we must stand firm and face the battle head on. We must wear the fruits of the Spirit to wield our Sword- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Personally, there is no greater thrill than being courageous. It's very different from just being brave, as bravery means facing hardship without fear. If you are someone that never feels fear at any time in your life- well, I applaud you, but truly, we all experience fear at some point in our lives. Courage is facing hardship and trial despite your fear. With God, we can feel freedom without fear, and not fear without freedom. This is another reason why Girls With Swords was so empowering- it taught me to be more than just a soldier.
In one chapter, Bevere was comparing soldiers and warriors. Earnestly, I admire all those who serve in the army- as an American, I am so grateful that I live in this country, where we have fought the battle for freedom and won. But being a soldier of God and a warrior of God are different than serving for the US. Bevere explained that soldiers are entitled to fight for a short while, which is why the Lord wants us to be more. True warrior-daughters fear the Lord and therefore joyously worship and obey Him- forever. Honoring what is Godly or noble is often the rite of passage when a soldier becomes a warrior.
Jesus' form of His Sword was the cross. He gave us swords of love and light because that is what the cross is. By His crucifixion, Jesus rained His Love upon all those who will ever live for all eternity. That means that we all carry the cross too- the sword of love. We just don't have to pay for the debt of the sword, since that is what Jesus has already done for us. He became like us, a human, suffering on the cross, so that we could become like Him. The cross was woven into heaven's mysterious tapestry of eternal wisdom. It was always His plan!
Use your sword wisely, because it is the greatest gift from God. He wants you to use it according to His Will. Remember- swords may be double-edged, but they are not double-minded, so make sure to strike true!
There is so much more that this book covers, and I encourage you all to pick it up if you want to learn more about the sword that you carry and how to be a hero.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your sword! Be the warrior that you were meant to be.
"From now on, people are my swords." (Zechariah 9:13).
What I mean by this is that we must fight for love, and we must fight to love. And you know what weapon God gives us to fight this battle?
A sword.
Swords were always my favorite weapon. I've never wielded a real one, but I've seen how they take down enemies with grace and dignity. To me, swords are more respectable than guns or knives. Because a sword is what every follower of Jesus needs to become a warrior- a fighter for love.
This book was so crucial to me because it explored just how to use your sword and fight for the Lord- how we are chosen, trained, armed, and commissioned. Its target audience was women of all ages, explaining that the evil one loves to prey on us the most because we are God's daughters. I have been so deeply impacted and inspired by the words in the pages. It showed me that we, as His daughters, need to become warriors of Light- His Light.
So what exactly is the sword that God gives us to carry? Obviously we all don't carry around four-foot long blades of destruction, mined from the finest steel of the earth. Our real sword is much more powerful than that. Because our Sword is two things: God's Word and the Holy Spirit. Lisa Bevere made the connection that the words "God sword" can be arranged to say "God's Word."
Essentially, the gospel is what we are equipped with to resist the temptation that the devil throws at us every day- feelings of anger, hate, disgust, and impatience. With our God-given sword, we can fight these battles with Him in our hearts, right at His side. But nobody said that this was an easy fight. Bevere says that "The mightiest weapons may be the hardest to hold", but that doesn't mean we should give up or cower. In fact, it is exactly why now is when we must stand firm and face the battle head on. We must wear the fruits of the Spirit to wield our Sword- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Personally, there is no greater thrill than being courageous. It's very different from just being brave, as bravery means facing hardship without fear. If you are someone that never feels fear at any time in your life- well, I applaud you, but truly, we all experience fear at some point in our lives. Courage is facing hardship and trial despite your fear. With God, we can feel freedom without fear, and not fear without freedom. This is another reason why Girls With Swords was so empowering- it taught me to be more than just a soldier.
In one chapter, Bevere was comparing soldiers and warriors. Earnestly, I admire all those who serve in the army- as an American, I am so grateful that I live in this country, where we have fought the battle for freedom and won. But being a soldier of God and a warrior of God are different than serving for the US. Bevere explained that soldiers are entitled to fight for a short while, which is why the Lord wants us to be more. True warrior-daughters fear the Lord and therefore joyously worship and obey Him- forever. Honoring what is Godly or noble is often the rite of passage when a soldier becomes a warrior.
Jesus' form of His Sword was the cross. He gave us swords of love and light because that is what the cross is. By His crucifixion, Jesus rained His Love upon all those who will ever live for all eternity. That means that we all carry the cross too- the sword of love. We just don't have to pay for the debt of the sword, since that is what Jesus has already done for us. He became like us, a human, suffering on the cross, so that we could become like Him. The cross was woven into heaven's mysterious tapestry of eternal wisdom. It was always His plan!
Use your sword wisely, because it is the greatest gift from God. He wants you to use it according to His Will. Remember- swords may be double-edged, but they are not double-minded, so make sure to strike true!
There is so much more that this book covers, and I encourage you all to pick it up if you want to learn more about the sword that you carry and how to be a hero.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your sword! Be the warrior that you were meant to be.
"From now on, people are my swords." (Zechariah 9:13).
March 25, 2013
“…know the weight of your moment in history…” – Girls With Swords
Do you know that you have a divine purpose and have been chosen, equipped, armed and commissioned as a strategic part of this spiritual battle raging daily around us?
C.S. Lewis said: ”There is no neutral ground in the universe; every square inch, every split second, is claimed by God, and counter-claimed by Satan.”
Too few recognize that they have been divinely placed in where they are and in the time that they are in for a reason. It is time for women to reach a recognition of position. As daughters of the King there is a measure of authority that you walk in. However, it is your choice as to the position that you take in this battle be it an unarmed civilian, victim, a prisoner of war, or a hero. There is no safe middle ground.
Lisa states that women taking hold of their identity is a crucial part to taking up their swords (the Word of God) with the power and authority that is delegated to them.
Riddled with profound truths Girls With Swords is a must-read for women. It is all about recognition of position and recognition of who God is.
You are a target. The attacks that you experience have much more to do with who you might be in the future than who you have been in the past. “…know the weight of your moment in history…” If you have ever wondered why you are here, what your purpose is, who you are or why you are in the circumstances that you are, this is the book to read. You have a divine purpose in your time at this very moment. Girls With Swords will open your eyes to the war, the weapons and the worth! I highly recommend it.
Do you know that you have a divine purpose and have been chosen, equipped, armed and commissioned as a strategic part of this spiritual battle raging daily around us?
C.S. Lewis said: ”There is no neutral ground in the universe; every square inch, every split second, is claimed by God, and counter-claimed by Satan.”
Too few recognize that they have been divinely placed in where they are and in the time that they are in for a reason. It is time for women to reach a recognition of position. As daughters of the King there is a measure of authority that you walk in. However, it is your choice as to the position that you take in this battle be it an unarmed civilian, victim, a prisoner of war, or a hero. There is no safe middle ground.
Lisa states that women taking hold of their identity is a crucial part to taking up their swords (the Word of God) with the power and authority that is delegated to them.
Riddled with profound truths Girls With Swords is a must-read for women. It is all about recognition of position and recognition of who God is.
You are a target. The attacks that you experience have much more to do with who you might be in the future than who you have been in the past. “…know the weight of your moment in history…” If you have ever wondered why you are here, what your purpose is, who you are or why you are in the circumstances that you are, this is the book to read. You have a divine purpose in your time at this very moment. Girls With Swords will open your eyes to the war, the weapons and the worth! I highly recommend it.
February 27, 2013
Girls with Swords: How to Carry your Cross like a Hero is Lisa Bevere’s latest book. I wanted to like this book. One of my “book buddies” at church loves her husband’s books, so I started into this book hopeful, only to soon feel she was stretching to reach her analogies. For instance, she uses the fact that the word sword is found in the words “God’S WORD”. To me this means nothing except she is trying to find anything to make her points. I would be much more impressed if that was the case in Greek as that was the language in which the New Testament was written.
I also disagree with her statement on pages 68-69:
“I don’t think the rulers of that age were particulary suprised that Jesus rose from the dead. They had seen the dead raised before, and Jesus had told everyone he would rise after three days.”
When it says in John chapter two:
19 Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. 20 Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple and the building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? 21 But he spake of the temple of his body. 22 When there he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they belied the scripture and the word which Jesus had said.
I don’t believe that when Jesus’ own disciples did not understand until after the Resurrection that it was going to happen that the rulers had more spiritual insight than Jesus’ disciples.
She also quotes generously from The Message which is not the most accurate Bible translation available. It’s good for a devotional, but I prefer a more accurate translation.
I felt the theology was a bit off as well. Of course, I don’t agree with a lot of Pentecostal theology and this book seemed to be of Pentecostal persuasion. I did read the entire book, and there were sections I enjoyed. I liked when she told personal stories. I would have enjoyed this book much more if she would have talked more from her life and less about swords, as I think it’s a stretch to say that the cross is a sword. I believe there are better books on spiritual warfare and living the Christian life, but if you are a Lisa Bevere fan, you will likely enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are my own.
I also disagree with her statement on pages 68-69:
“I don’t think the rulers of that age were particulary suprised that Jesus rose from the dead. They had seen the dead raised before, and Jesus had told everyone he would rise after three days.”
When it says in John chapter two:
19 Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. 20 Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple and the building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? 21 But he spake of the temple of his body. 22 When there he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they belied the scripture and the word which Jesus had said.
I don’t believe that when Jesus’ own disciples did not understand until after the Resurrection that it was going to happen that the rulers had more spiritual insight than Jesus’ disciples.
She also quotes generously from The Message which is not the most accurate Bible translation available. It’s good for a devotional, but I prefer a more accurate translation.
I felt the theology was a bit off as well. Of course, I don’t agree with a lot of Pentecostal theology and this book seemed to be of Pentecostal persuasion. I did read the entire book, and there were sections I enjoyed. I liked when she told personal stories. I would have enjoyed this book much more if she would have talked more from her life and less about swords, as I think it’s a stretch to say that the cross is a sword. I believe there are better books on spiritual warfare and living the Christian life, but if you are a Lisa Bevere fan, you will likely enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are my own.
November 24, 2015
I wanted to like this one as I am ALL for women knowing who they are in Christ and wielding the weapons He has given us. However when a Christian book is based more on movie references and literary quotations than Scripture, I get frustrated. Bevere's big picture may not be off, but how she gets there is weak and unsupported by Scripture.
Example: on page 19 she says that by keeping the letters and "only altering the spacing, you discover God's word is a God sword....This confirms in a unexpected way what we are told by Paul in the book of Ephesians..." She goes on to quote Eph. 6:17.
But why does a word scramble or pneumonic device confirms Scripture!? The inerrant, God-breathed Word is not enough on its own??!
I'm wary of her illustrative use of the sword as well since Scripture is pretty clear on the armor of God and lays it out plainly. She seems to be re-writing God's word here.
Example: on page 19 she says that by keeping the letters and "only altering the spacing, you discover God's word is a God sword....This confirms in a unexpected way what we are told by Paul in the book of Ephesians..." She goes on to quote Eph. 6:17.
But why does a word scramble or pneumonic device confirms Scripture!? The inerrant, God-breathed Word is not enough on its own??!
I'm wary of her illustrative use of the sword as well since Scripture is pretty clear on the armor of God and lays it out plainly. She seems to be re-writing God's word here.
August 23, 2017
The back cover blurb made it clear this was not an in-depth Bible study about the Sword of the Spirit, but that the author would be using sword imagery to get across the ideas related to spiritual warfare, so I didn’t have any kind of preconceived notions about what the book would be about. I found this to be a nice book that I would give to any new Christian woman, because the book is a good introduction to the concept of spiritual warfare. I have done some more intensive and in-depth studies on spiritual warfare, so much of the book wasn’t new to me, but it would be very fresh and interesting for, say, someone who was a baby Christian. The analogies are very easy to understand and relate to, and the writing style is chatty and friendly.
It’s actually the only book I’ve heard of that addresses spiritual warfare specifically to women, which is refreshing—the other spiritual warfare books I’ve read have been geared toward both men and women, but they mostly seemed a bit more masculine-sounding in their approach (maybe because they were mostly written by men). This book wraps the concept of spiritual warfare in the culture of American women and the trials we specifically face.
I originally wanted to read this book because I thought it might be appealing to the junior high school girls in my church youth group, where I was a staff member, but I feel that this book is aimed more toward high school and older. A mature junior high girl might enjoy it, but I think it might be over the heads of younger junior high girls.
Overall, a really good book that I think addresses the spiritual warfare that American Christian women are facing.
It’s actually the only book I’ve heard of that addresses spiritual warfare specifically to women, which is refreshing—the other spiritual warfare books I’ve read have been geared toward both men and women, but they mostly seemed a bit more masculine-sounding in their approach (maybe because they were mostly written by men). This book wraps the concept of spiritual warfare in the culture of American women and the trials we specifically face.
I originally wanted to read this book because I thought it might be appealing to the junior high school girls in my church youth group, where I was a staff member, but I feel that this book is aimed more toward high school and older. A mature junior high girl might enjoy it, but I think it might be over the heads of younger junior high girls.
Overall, a really good book that I think addresses the spiritual warfare that American Christian women are facing.
February 23, 2013
Lisa Bevere has long been one of my favorite speakers / authors and recently when her FB post asked for 100 people who would be willing to get an Advanced Readers Copy to review on amazon I jumped on it. I was pretty grateful for my little "present" from Jesus that I happened to be looking at that exact time - only a couple minutes after she posted. The 100 spots went quick.
This book and it did not disappoint. Women fight differently than men, have different gifts and talents. Jesus’ kingdom and the power of the Cross is something worth fighting for. And we fight with the Word of God against the enemy, not against people.
Her opening packs a punch, reminding us that “The attacks on your life have much more to do with who you might be in the future than who you have been in the past. Becoming who God created you to be is… both your best offense and defense against the enemy’s strategy.” Her illustration makes this point loud and clear. Personally this is a great reminder of who I can be in Christ, not just who I am now (thankfully).
But quite honestly, the chapter near the end, regarding the sword of forgiveness is, one of the most powerful I've ever read. As she recounts the story of her relationship with her father, her longing to see him saved and what God for a bitter, angry old man is truly mind blowing. The power of a transformed life through forgiveness never gets old and still brings me wonder.
I will be buying copies for my friends and I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
This book and it did not disappoint. Women fight differently than men, have different gifts and talents. Jesus’ kingdom and the power of the Cross is something worth fighting for. And we fight with the Word of God against the enemy, not against people.
Her opening packs a punch, reminding us that “The attacks on your life have much more to do with who you might be in the future than who you have been in the past. Becoming who God created you to be is… both your best offense and defense against the enemy’s strategy.” Her illustration makes this point loud and clear. Personally this is a great reminder of who I can be in Christ, not just who I am now (thankfully).
But quite honestly, the chapter near the end, regarding the sword of forgiveness is, one of the most powerful I've ever read. As she recounts the story of her relationship with her father, her longing to see him saved and what God for a bitter, angry old man is truly mind blowing. The power of a transformed life through forgiveness never gets old and still brings me wonder.
I will be buying copies for my friends and I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
May 4, 2017
I pity Lisa Bevere's editor. I picture this exchange. Bevere: I wrote a book about spiritual fencing! Editor: There's nothing in here about fencing... Bevere: I know. You can add random fencing tidbits in boxes at random places in the book. Editor: You're writing about various types of swords, including swords you made up, but you don't fence with machetes or flamberges or... Bevere: I know! Isn't it cool? [Editor bangs head against wall.] The word salad that is this book trivializes spiritual warfare and negates the need for the full armor of God (Eph 6:10-18). Stay away from this book.
July 22, 2018
I tapped out on this one. It was a force to finish considering Lisa Bevere is one of my fave Christian Contemporary authors. This book relies heavily on movie scenes (for ex. Lisa compares us daughters of Christ to Sarah Connor in The Terminator, like really??? I feel like with The Holy Spirit’s guidance she could’ve came up with something way better), there’s a lot of quotes (there’s even one from Donald Trump🙄) and the Message bible translation. I don’t know why authors can’t just stick with NKJV.
I think if you’ve been walking with the Lord long enough your books shouldn’t be filled with quotes from people but scriptures from the Bible or even what the Holy Spirit has said in your private time with Him.
If you’re looking for a book with a lot of substance this is not for you. If you like the constant talk of fencing 🤺 and swords and the far reaching analogies she puts in this book then I guess you may like it.
This is a whatever read for me.
I think if you’ve been walking with the Lord long enough your books shouldn’t be filled with quotes from people but scriptures from the Bible or even what the Holy Spirit has said in your private time with Him.
If you’re looking for a book with a lot of substance this is not for you. If you like the constant talk of fencing 🤺 and swords and the far reaching analogies she puts in this book then I guess you may like it.
This is a whatever read for me.
July 10, 2016
This is probably a good small group bible study book... But it didn't have the meat I was looking for. I tapped out early.
July 21, 2019
I saw Lisa Bevere speak in person, and I heard so many good things about her book. I was completely disappointed.
I think it was the tone of the writing that I hated so much, but I couldn't really put my finger on it. Lisa Bevere scatters all kinds of quotes from politicians and Church heroes throughout the book, but I didn't think that was appropriate. I wish she could have found "inspirational quotes" from scripture instead of pulling from random historical leaders.
This book was supposed to be about woman warriors and the fighting spirit, but again I thought that she got it all wrong. It would have been a much better read if someone with prior/current military experience had written it. The approach was just...off...and I didn't agree with some of her points.
As an example of the tone that I couldn't stand, there's this quote, "Snake handling and intentionally drinking poison are just stupid. (p 218)" Now call me crazy, but "just stupid" doesn't sound like something you publish. There are so many better words that could have been used there. And why was she even talking about this in the first place? I didn't understand it.
The book felt scatter-brained, the tone was off, this was not what I hoped it would be.
I think it was the tone of the writing that I hated so much, but I couldn't really put my finger on it. Lisa Bevere scatters all kinds of quotes from politicians and Church heroes throughout the book, but I didn't think that was appropriate. I wish she could have found "inspirational quotes" from scripture instead of pulling from random historical leaders.
This book was supposed to be about woman warriors and the fighting spirit, but again I thought that she got it all wrong. It would have been a much better read if someone with prior/current military experience had written it. The approach was just...off...and I didn't agree with some of her points.
As an example of the tone that I couldn't stand, there's this quote, "Snake handling and intentionally drinking poison are just stupid. (p 218)" Now call me crazy, but "just stupid" doesn't sound like something you publish. There are so many better words that could have been used there. And why was she even talking about this in the first place? I didn't understand it.
The book felt scatter-brained, the tone was off, this was not what I hoped it would be.
August 25, 2013
I loved the analogies to the sword and fencing. Like it or not, we are in a war with principalities and God is gathering his daughters to do battle. Grab your sword, ladies! Sharpen it with His Word and stand in His strength. Our lives and the lives of those in our sphere of influence depend on it!
February 7, 2025
I enjoyed this book! I read this years ago when my daughters were just little ones and felt drawn to hear these words again!! This is a book that reminds His daughters to rise and live with the love and strength He has given each and every one of us - despite the punches we experience in this fallen world. I have had to deal with demons from my past and sexual abuse that, to this day, is felt in my body. I could have stayed in that pit of trauma, but that is the beauty of Christ - He grabs our hands, looks us in the eyes, and whispers for us to hand it all to Him and trust Him as He leads us forward...where we look is where we are going to go...
"Make what Jesus did for me on Calvary bigger than what any abuser did to me on this earth" - Christine Caine (That has changed my life, and now I can stand with Jesus and carry my cross like a hero)
I recommend this book for all of us mommas out there because it is not easy, and this book will show you that you are not alone in the struggle, but we have weapons to rise and live in joy, freedom, grace, peace, and God's amazing love! God bless you, Mommas - all Women! :)
"Make what Jesus did for me on Calvary bigger than what any abuser did to me on this earth" - Christine Caine (That has changed my life, and now I can stand with Jesus and carry my cross like a hero)
I recommend this book for all of us mommas out there because it is not easy, and this book will show you that you are not alone in the struggle, but we have weapons to rise and live in joy, freedom, grace, peace, and God's amazing love! God bless you, Mommas - all Women! :)
November 6, 2015
This book & the bible study weren't what I thought they were going to be. I was ready to dig deep into the word, to arm myself for battle. It felt like the whole book was explaining why we should dig deep, why we should use the word as a sword, and never got to actually applying that principle to our life. I saw Lisa Bevere at a women's conference and she is an awesome speaker. Her writing in this book was hard to follow. She repeated a lot of the same ideas and it was a bit of a struggle to get through. We did like the DVD that went with it, it seemed to clarify what was lost in the book.
February 12, 2013
I received this book as an advance copy to read and review. I am a huge fan of Lisa Bevere, and I love her books. I have seen her speak at many conferences. Lisa has a way of empowering woman. This book, Girls with Swords is just that. A very empowering book for women, that teaches us to fight the spiritual battles against Satan. The book has a lot of sword references, which are interesting. I am going to recommend this book to all my friends. It is a great read.
June 28, 2013
EXCELLENT read.. Highly commend to women everywhere who desire to live a Victorious life
March 12, 2021
I'd say that maybe 80% of this book has good information to motivate strong woman of God. However, 15% is misleading and 5% is downright wrong.
I do not like books that use multiple Bible translations.
I do not like The Message translation of the Bible.
It is also not appropriate to take Bible verses out of context to make a point.
This book had great potential to speak on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and failed to do so.
I don't mind that she uses The Terminator's Sarah Connor as an example of a strong woman, but aren't there already so many great examples of strong woman in the Bible? Yes. Why not use those?
I noticed other people saying that they "tapped out" on this book, or called it a "word salad." Some said that her lectures are better than the book.
This book made me angry. Her lecture made me even more furious.
The best way I can explain myself is by pointing to the metaphor of the Body of Christ. See 1 Corinthians 12:12-31. Verse 14: "Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many." There are hands, feet, eyes, ears...you get the point.
Now here's my point:
Every body part is not of the same strength.
We are not all meant to be mighty warriors or be doomed.
God will make you just as strong as He wants you to be, if you let Him.
Please don't try to be what God hasn't planned for you to be. He has a purpose for you (Jeremiah 29:11). We are called to stand firm (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Lord will fight our battles (Exodus 14:14). A physical sword will win us no battles (Psalm 44:6) BECAUSE we are fighting a spiritual war. Therefore, I urge you to pay special attention to Ephesians 6:10-18. Listen to God's word (The Bible) and do what it says (James 1:22).
May God bless you as you grow in Him through His word.
I do not like books that use multiple Bible translations.
I do not like The Message translation of the Bible.
It is also not appropriate to take Bible verses out of context to make a point.
This book had great potential to speak on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and failed to do so.
I don't mind that she uses The Terminator's Sarah Connor as an example of a strong woman, but aren't there already so many great examples of strong woman in the Bible? Yes. Why not use those?
I noticed other people saying that they "tapped out" on this book, or called it a "word salad." Some said that her lectures are better than the book.
This book made me angry. Her lecture made me even more furious.
The best way I can explain myself is by pointing to the metaphor of the Body of Christ. See 1 Corinthians 12:12-31. Verse 14: "Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many." There are hands, feet, eyes, ears...you get the point.
Now here's my point:
Every body part is not of the same strength.
We are not all meant to be mighty warriors or be doomed.
God will make you just as strong as He wants you to be, if you let Him.
Please don't try to be what God hasn't planned for you to be. He has a purpose for you (Jeremiah 29:11). We are called to stand firm (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Lord will fight our battles (Exodus 14:14). A physical sword will win us no battles (Psalm 44:6) BECAUSE we are fighting a spiritual war. Therefore, I urge you to pay special attention to Ephesians 6:10-18. Listen to God's word (The Bible) and do what it says (James 1:22).
May God bless you as you grow in Him through His word.
November 22, 2021
It is an okay book but I would not recommend it to anyone. I was expecting it to be more based on God's Word itself and be about knowing and living out God's Word. However, while the book used Scripture, it didn't seem to study it in context very well. Many things may have been true but she didn't argue them by God's Word well enough for me to trust the statements. Much of time spent reading the book was me questioning whether or not what was said was truthful. (Although there are a few good one-liners and some paragraphs that were encouraging and challenging that I loved!)
I did not read the last two chapters because I finally decided I did not need to make myself keep going when I had other books I could be reading.
I did not read the last two chapters because I finally decided I did not need to make myself keep going when I had other books I could be reading.
June 14, 2020
Timely Read
This is a point in time when Christians have to weild well the weapons of our warfare. This book provides insight about what swords are available to us and how we can use them to reclaim identities and destinies. I tried to read this book when I first bought it years ago, but couldn't quite push through. I see now God was reserving its wisdom and insights for this season of my life. A testament to His perfect timing!
This is a point in time when Christians have to weild well the weapons of our warfare. This book provides insight about what swords are available to us and how we can use them to reclaim identities and destinies. I tried to read this book when I first bought it years ago, but couldn't quite push through. I see now God was reserving its wisdom and insights for this season of my life. A testament to His perfect timing!
July 18, 2023
Girls with Swords by Lisa Bevere is a book that speaks directly to Women and how they can equip and empower themselves with the sword of God’s word. It’s Christ- centric and uplifting. If there was a time for women to be armed it’s Now!
If your looking to read a faith based inspiring read, this book is for you. And I personally loved it.
If your looking to read a faith based inspiring read, this book is for you. And I personally loved it.
July 9, 2025
Be a girl who stands up for people. Be a girl who attacks the enemy with the word.
July 24, 2025
Takeaway: I am a daughter of a triumphant Warrior-King. The sword I carry isn’t just a symbol—it represents honor, virtue, courage, beauty, loyalty, and freedom from fear. As His warrior-daughter, I haven’t been hired for a task; I’ve been called to change my world.
September 23, 2025
Content was amazing!! So many powerful nuggets and takeaways for me! I love the way Lisa Bevere can explain a passage of Scripture in a way that hits deep.
November 8, 2017
Well, considering I’m not that into this kind of book, I’m really satisfied with its content. Its words came straightly into my heart! this is a good book to help us to hold our sword (the word of God) up and fight in His strength. We were not made to be afraid, we were made to be warriors! ⚔️
September 13, 2016
This book brought me to a whole new level of encounter with the cross. It has made me realize that denying your self and taking your cross isn't about carrying a burden. It has released me to a mindset to feel burdened just because you have chosen to follow cross. Carrying your cross means taking your weapon with you everywhere you go so that you will be ready to fight the schemes of the enemy. The cross is your sword. It's your weapon.
I like how Lisa Bevere uses the illustration of the different kinds of swords we can use to fight our battles. And I like how she explained it from a woman's point of view. While this book is not applicable only to women alone, it is just right for all women to read these kinds of books. Understanding who you are as a daughter of the Most High God will allow you to fight your battles from a vantage point.
I like how Lisa Bevere uses the illustration of the different kinds of swords we can use to fight our battles. And I like how she explained it from a woman's point of view. While this book is not applicable only to women alone, it is just right for all women to read these kinds of books. Understanding who you are as a daughter of the Most High God will allow you to fight your battles from a vantage point.
April 18, 2013
This book was a very timely book for me. I really needed to understand that as a daughter of the King we are a target of the enemy but our Fathers word, the language of Heaven is so powerful to push the enemy back and I stay standing strong in His promises. The battles we face are never against people, but against the enemies desire and obsession to see Gods children fall, but as warrior daughters of a warrior King, we are swords in the Fathers hand, declaring Gods love, light and power over the darkest and evil situations.
March 22, 2013
In Girls with Swords, Lisa Bevere encourages women to make the choice to be heroes. The cross is our greatest weapon and as we study the Word of God as a whole and proclaim it we raise our swords to bring light and life. This book is a call to be prepared and trained. It equips you for battle as you read and apply the truths on its pages.
Lisa Bevere is a great teacher and I will be reading this book again.
Lisa Bevere is a great teacher and I will be reading this book again.
October 23, 2013
Awesome book . . . Loved the analogy of swords and how they apply to my life as a "Girl" and as a Christian. Lisa is a wonderful writer and has used examples from her life to show that God is faithful. This book not only explains how the sword (the Word of God) is to be used but gives practical advice. Will be a reference book in my library. I especially loved the chapter - "Sword of Song" - a must read for any musically inclined person (even the one who just sings in the shower).
August 2, 2016
I absolutely loved the message of this book and also the sermons Lisa Bevere spoke on this book. However, I feel that all the important and valuable information could be found solely in her sermons. Everything else mentioned in her book that wasn't mentioned in her sermons seemed like fluff and unnecessary information. It was still a decent read but you can get all of the same information from a 1 hour sermon on YouTube.
August 30, 2023
This book was not at all what I excepted and had hoped for. It did not contain any meat or the applications to fight spiritual warfare like I expected. It felt all over the place, and honestly, I thought it was poorly written. Then there were random fencing facts that didn't make any sense and were out of place. My biggest turn-off was the use of the message translation. This is not a book I would recommend to others.
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