Life is full of challenges that keep us from spending time with God, and hinder us from discovering his presence in our day-to-day activities. But He is always there, ready to pour out His blessings. If you desire to experience the reality of God in the everyday moments of life, this devotional journey is for you. God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea will help you find the strength you need to weather every storm and experience new mercies every day.
With decades of facing challenges as a single mom of six, teacher Rose Johnson has gleaned a wealth of experience. To those blessed enough to read the devotional “God, Me and Sweet Iced Tea,” Rose shares some of the wisdom learned through the fiery trials that have led her to spiritual discernment that is both clear and insightful. The author does not pull any punches when she calls sin, sin, whether it is jealousy, unkindness or a judgmental attitude. She also provides lessons of encouragement to help a reader through the universal trials of life. Her words, crafted with healing and comfort as a mother would teach her child, has a simple message: Following God’s ways leads to a victorious Christian walk. It is a journey with Rose as sweet and lovely as her name. Readers will be blessed!
This is by far one of the most beautiful devotionals I’ve ever read. God, Me and Sweet Iced Tea written by Rose Chandler Johnson is a true delight. Each devotional delivers a warm and thoughtful message that inspires a deep connection to the heart of God. Every reading is absolutely useful; especially the questions and prayers that encourage self-reflection and journaling.
I was often left wanting more of the wisdom Rose Chandler Johnson imparts with her audience. You will find there are many spiritual lessons sure to inspire you to live with fervor, gratitude and grace. This devotional is the perfect complement to a warm southern day. I would highly recommend God, Me and Sweet Iced Tea for you or as a gift to someone special.
In God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea, Rose Chandler Johnson is a gracious hostess serving up an encouraging word--Southern style. These simply succinct daily devotions are flavored just right to provide a refreshing and sweet word of spiritual insight. I particularly enjoyed her thought for the day and her prayer focus, which prompted me to pray for people who might not have normally crossed my mind. I'd like to keep a copy on my front porch, with a hope that I can serve it up with a pitcher of sweet ice tea to share with someone who needs a moment of refreshment some day soon!
God , Me, and Sweet Iced Tea By: Rose Chandler Johnson
What a great name for a devotional. Sweet Iced Tea refreshes the body. Like god refreshes our soul. Sweet refreshing devotion each day. What a way to start off the day. Read a little each day a savor over it. Meditate upon it. Rose puts her heart in this book of devotions that are done in a sweet way but packed with God’s word. I like the three different parts of the devotional . first there is Prayer always we should start with prayer then the todays sweet tea moment, and Payer focus. I would recommend this devotional. It will give you a sweet blessing.
I enjoyed reading this sweet devotional book. Reading this book was like meeting with a trusted friend for a time of refreshment and fellowship.
While reading the entry entitled Strangers In A Strange Land, I was reminded of times when my boys were much younger. Whenever they were about to go somewhere, I would remind them to travel with their House Rules. As believers, we need to travel with God’s rules as we live out our days and as we visit strange lands and foreign places.
This book was easy to read and absorb. It enhanced my quiet times and was such an encouraging pleasure to read.
I liked this devotional. It is NOT a deep study by any means. It is more like the daily bread but with daily questions for journaling. It would be really good for a newer Christian or someone looking for a change, something light and not in depth. Most days that I did this study I did more than one day. I should have completed the study much faster but many days I was just not motivated to read it.
Some of the topics were very good reminders and had things that made me think. Some days I wrote a lot in my journal.
Here is a favorite chapter from the book, “A Life of Service” this chapter had good questions as well. I will not quote the whole chapter... just part of it and the questions that made me write so much.
“'I don't have a life!' Without hesitation, the Lord responded emphatically to my words. In my spirit, I heard: No, you don't have a life. Didn't I tell you that whoever will save his life shall lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it? These words came directly to me, personal and real—interjected into my train of thought by a voice of authority. At that moment I knew the Lord had spoken to me. I realized I was doing exactly what he wanted me to do; I was taking care of the needs of my family. My service to them was not an obligation, but a holy calling—a vocation to serve the needs of those in my care. Jesus became a servant to all, taking on the form of a servant in his earthly life. His service was love in action. His selfless love, for our redemption and God's glory, is a model for all believers. It is with this same spirit that we can dedicate our lives to His service. By doing so, we are strengthened to give of ourselves to others, in our families and beyond, as we go about our daily lives.” (pg 69)
The questions... Can you think of times when your service to other causes you frustration? Self Pity? What encouraging words would you like to hear at those times? In your own words, describe what Paul means in I Corinthians 9:19
I will not share my answers with you. What would you say to those questions, think on them a minute.
Each chapter closes with a prayer to read, a 'Sweet Tea Moment' and a prayer focus (a topic to pray about) (pg 70-71)
It was an ok devotional, not Stupendous or Mind Blowing... but good.
Have you ever read devotionals and could feel the heart of the author? This is how it was for me reading Rose Johnson’s devotional God, Me and Sweet Ice Tea. Rose has written a sweet book of devotions that reflect on scripture from God’s Word. Each devotion is about a different scripture, they are very short, it only takes a few minutes to read each one. After each devotion you will find a collection of scripture if you want to read more on the topic for that day. There are lines for journaling and answering questions, there is a prayer, a prayer focus, and Today’s Sweet Tea Moments. Each devotion is three to four pages long.
First of all, I love this little book, and it is small enough to slip in your purse and take with you. The devotions deal with issues such as, Resolutions, what the Lord requires from us, complaining, obedience, taming the tongue, perfect peace, a life of service, and this is just a small insight at what is in this special devotional. This is a devotional you can use in several ways. If you only have time for a quick read, you can read just the devotion, or you can take more time to look up the scripture, answer the questions and meditate on what God has for you for that specific day. Either way, you will find this to be a very important book to keep around. And I especially appreciate the way Ms. Rose puts her heart into each thing she writes. As I read this book, I could feel Rose’s love for the Lord and her willingness to serve Him. To me, this is what makes God, Me, and Sweet Ice Tea such a special devotion for you to have. I love my copy, and appreciate Rose Chandler Johnson providing it for me to read and review this book, and the opinions I have expressed her are mine only.
I really want to encourage you to check out God, Me, and Sweet Ice Tea and purchase a copy for your library. You will be more than pleased with this wonderful heartwarming devotional.
God, me, and Sweet Iced Tea is a series of 52 short devotionals which are quite lightweight. They start with a Bible quote and then a short story/thought from the author. There are a few Bible verses of suggested reading, some journalling considerations, a prayer, Today's Sweet Tea Moment (a positive summing up sentence) and a topic to focus prayer on.
You could spend a little or a lot of time on each devotional - they are not an in depth Bible study by any means - more lifestyle thoughts to help us grow more like Jesus. I like some of the journalling considerations such as 'Have you ever asked yourself if Jesus would be please to sit with you to watch whatever programs you are watching?'.
I didn't find I was looking up the suggested verses (usually between two and five) as that was too much searching on my Kindle and I am not fond of single Bible verses as I like to appreciate the whole context. The journalling ideas and prayer topics are good and helpful prompts.
Good for any Christian who doesn't want anything too heavy but would like a devotional time.
Settling down with my own glass of iced tea prepared me to drink deeply of Rose Chandler Johnson's lovely book, God, Me and Sweet Ice Tea. Whether you're a read straight through a book kind of person or one who loves to linger long and savor each devotional slowly, Rose's inspirational prose will speak to your heart and soul replenishing everything you need to re-enter the busyness of life refreshed and recharged. Buy one for yourself and one for a friend...they'll thank you for your thoughtfulness!
This book feels like author Rose Johnson welcomes you right into her kitchen for a refreshing glass of sweet iced tea while you chat together. Her collection of short devotionals are given with a warm friendliness and transparency. Each devotional includes a verse, journal questions, a daily thought, suggested Bible reading and a prayer. Also included is a prayer focus--a suggestion for prayer that connects with that day's devotional topic. If you like My Daily Bread or other daily devotionals, I'd definitely recommend God, Me and Sweet Iced Tea!
God, Me , and Sweet Iced Tea is a devotional that will draw you into spending more time at the Savior’s feet. Her practical, everyday observations will strike a chord everyone, and the additional Scripture references plus journaling options at the end of each devotional challenge and encourage the reader. You’ll want to linger in the Word a few more minutes as you journey through this book. Whether you’re a young Christian or a mature disciple of Christ, Rose’s heart-felt insights will add depth to your quiet time.
Not too many devotionals I have read lately actually speak to me, I’ve reviewed so many book, but this book does. I really clicked with the author’s style. Great title and great insight with just the right scripture passage to meditate on and a strong dose of authenticity and application from the author. She also includes additional related scripture passages, journaling options, a prayer and thought for the day.
I probably would have rated this one higher if I had realized before I opened it that it was a daily devotional book. That's not what I was looking for, so it disappointed just a little, HOWEVER, I think if you used it as intended (ie, as a guide for your personal devotions/Bible Study...including looking at the scripture at the end of the chapters and journaling about the study questions) it would be a great spiritual blessing and catalyst for growth.
Let me start by saying that the title drew me in right away because sweet iced tea is one of my favorite things. I love the cover also - a happy yellow with a glass of icy sweet tea with a lemon - makes you think of a bright sunny summer day! Love it! And I loved that the first devotional starts with "O taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man that trusts in him! Psalm 34:8 NKJV". That's a great start for a book that has sweet tea on the cover. :)
Each chapter starts with a scripture, then the devotion, then has suggested scripture reading, questions for journaling considerations (with lines for writing), a prayer, Today's Sweet Tea Moment, and a prayer focus. This book is a wonderful, easy to use devotional resource with a daily dose of spiritual encouragement and reflection that will help you draw closer to the heart of God.
*Thanks to Singing Librarian Books Tours for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid or required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
writemomentswithGod.blogspot.com continuing the journey
This devotional is designed to draw you closer to the heart of God. --Rose Chandler Johnson
Following the Lord is every moment, every second ~ daily. This devotional is like sitting down with a good friend and sharing life together. As a young mom shares her day, truth is reflected. Sharing hurts and hopes, our directional guide from Scripture leads the way to triumph and caring. Peek in each morning with your Bible and pen close by. Come alongside as Rose shares her heart in practical ways of overcoming lack we may feel with encouragement to look to the Lord daily.
Here is a snippet from one devotional day to share with you from Rose's devotional journal. Linger and don't rush through. Whether you enjoy sitting outside on a porch swing or rockers with a friend, or at your kitchen table, you will have a good springboard for your daily journey with God.
A Life of Service ~*~
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. --Matthew 16:25 NIV
I remember the time, some twenty or so years ago, when my little children resolved around me like the planets circle the sun. I felt like I was holding them all in place, but God was holding us all. He was ever present. One especially exhausting day, as I was changing a diaper and hurriedly juggling many tasks, I said aloud in exasperation, "I don't have a life!" Without hesitation, the Lord responded emphatically to my words. In my spirit, I heard: No, you don't have a life. Didn't I tell you that whoever will save his life shall lose it, and whoever will lose his life for My sake shall find it? These words came directly to me, personal and real--interjected into my train of thought by a voice of authority. At that moment I knew the Lord had spoken to me. I realized I was doing exactly what He wanted me to do; I was taking care of the needs of my family. My service to them was not an obligation, but a holy calling--a vocation to serve the needs of those in my care. Jesus became a servant to all, taking on the form of a servant in his earthly life. His service was love in action. His selfless love, for our redemption and God's glory, is a model for all believers. It is with this same spirit that we can dedicate our lives to His service. By doing so, we are strengthened to give of ourselves to others, in our families and beyond, as we go about our everyday lives.
Suggested Reading: Matthew 16:24-26; Matthew 25:31-46; 1 Corinthians 9:19; Philippians 2:7-8
Journaling Considerations: Can you think of times when your service to others causes you frustration? Self-pity? ( 5 blank lines) What encouraging words would you like to hear at those times? (5 blank lines) In your own words, describe what Paul means in 1 Corinthians 9:19. (5 blank lines) Prayer: Dear God, I want to be at your service, doing whatever it is that you have called me to do this day. Strengthen me to serve. Give me the love I need to put into my actions. Show me the tasks you have called me to do, that I may live my life for Your glory.
Today's Sweet Tea Moment: What would Jesus do?
Prayer Focus: Those who devote their lives to God's service by serving others.
--God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea, 69-72
Enjoy 52 devotionals and your time together with the Lord. Nothing is wasted with the Lord. As you draw near to Him, you will discover the richness of His Word and His love for you. May you be blessed as His sweet fragrance overflows to others.
Rose Chandler Johnson, a Southern girl from a tiny Georgia town, is the author of the devotional blog, Write Moments with God. A devoted Christian and mother of six, she has been a teacher of English and French over the last twenty years. She looks forward to continuing her writing ministry in the years ahead.
***Thank you to author Rose Chandler Johnson for sending me a copy of her devotional, God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea. This review has been written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
When I read Rose Chandler Johnson's "God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea: Experiencing God in the Midst of Everyday Moments," I was drawn in by three key pieces: her honesty about her struggles, her love of God and her knowledge of His Word, and the set up of the book itself. Rose puts it all out there so her readers can see that she too has struggled with many things in her life. Through her struggles, she has grown personally and in her journey with God. I believe that these hard times and the growth that followed are two of the things that have put Rose in a position to be able to share her devotions with the world. She is able to share her struggles and her successes and motivate other people who may be in similar situations. She shows the world that nothing can hold you back if you believe in yourself and believe in God. Throughout the entire book, Rose's belief in and love of God is evident. There is not a single page that does not show her love and commitment to Him. When she is in need, she goes to Him. When she is happy, she goes to Him. When she is attempting to better herself, she goes to Him. When she sees needs for others, she goes to Him. There is no part of Rose's life that does not include God ... and it is evident in her book. In her devotions, she includes verses of Scripture, which not only shows her knowledge of God's Word but teaches her readers how it relates to everyday life. Finally, the set up of the book drew me in. Her devotions are short but packed with information. She starts with a single Bible verse to introduce her devotion and ends with suggested scripture readings and thought-provoking journaling questions to keep her readers thinking about the devotion and growing in God's Word. As one who sometimes struggles when praying and talking to God, I really enjoyed the final three pieces in her devotions: Prayer, Today's Sweet Tea Moment, and Prayer Focus. These three sections give readers something to focus on outside of their own lives.
God, Me & Sweet Tea by Rose Chandler Johnson is an encouraging and thoughtful devotional. Designed to encourage and impact believers from novice to elderly saint. More than reading a short thought and a scripture God, Me & Sweet Tea helps you set time aside to commune with Jesus. Each entry shares insights on a key verse that impacted her life. This is followed by two questions. One is a journaling question to help you apply everyday things to the scripture. The second question challenges the reader to apply the truth presented. And the chapter ends with a sweet tea moment and a prayer focus. The sweet tea moment is a thought to meditate on throughout the day. And the prayer focus is drawn from the scripture theme. Spending a few minutes each day reading the entry and exploring the scripture references feeds the soul with the Word. The few minutes it takes to fill in the answers to the questions help bring them to life. And the prayer focus and sweet tea moment helps our hearts commune with Jesus throughout the day. I love the personal stories Rose shares reminding the reader she has walked through these things herself. Opening her heart as she shares gives the feeling of sitting with her on a porch sharing a glass of sweet tea on a hot afternoon. It feels like the kind of moment where you sense a Divine Appointment with your Heavenly Father. If you are looking for a devotional to keep you on track with a daily quiet time this is a wonderful choice.
Title: GOD, ME AND SWEET ICED TEA Author: Rose Chandler Johnson Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas October 2013 ISBN: 978-1938499869 Genre: Devotional
In the South, nothing is more refreshing than a glass of sweet iced tea. Nothing, that is, except experiencing God in those small, everyday moments.
God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea is a deeply personal collection of spiritual treasures designed to help readers experience new mercies each morning. Seasoned with insight and grace, this tender devotional points to the divine presence of God in everyday moments.
Whether purchased as a personal resource or given as a heartfelt gift, God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea will help readers develop a daily habit of turning to God in those quiet moments of reflection.
I won a copy of GOD, ME, AND SWEET ICED TEA in a giveaway, and for me, this is a great devotional for the hurried moments that all moms have. A scripture passage, a devotional, more scripture to read related to the topic, journaling questions (and lines to write on), a prayer, and the application. I enjoy keeping this book on hand for when I need a refreshing God moment.
If you are looking for a devotional that is more than just a thought but less than a full-fledged study, then GOD, ME AND SWEET ICED TEA is one to consider. Only $2.99. $11.95 paperback. 169 pages. 5 stars.
I LOVE devotionals. I have read a lot of devotionals. Im picky when it comes to my devotionals. I want something that will challenge me and encourage me and teach me. I want something that will draw me closer to God and give me a deeper desire for His Word. God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea fits the bill perfectly!
I love the personal stories the author shares and the heart connection I felt every morning I spent time in this precious devotional.
What I especially love about this devotional is that you can customize it to your liking. If you want a quick devotional that you can use when you’re in a hurry- this is perfect for you, because each devotional is short but satisfying. But if you want to sit and savor each sip slowly…this devotional is perfect for you! The author has provided “Suggested Reading” Scriptures with each devotional to take your quiet time even deeper. Also included are “Journaling Considerations” with ample writing space for these soul-stirring questions. Each devo also includes extra goodies.. a prayer, a sweet tea moment and a prayer focus to help guide you into your own personal prayer time.
If you have been looking for a devotional to help you grow your faith, look no further. God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea will refresh, revitalize and renew your quiet time.
God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea by Rose Chandler Johnson, a sweet and refreshing devotional is a blessing from the first page. As a devotional writer and Bible study leader, I need a devotional book that helps me see scriptures in a new light. I was not disappointed.
Each day’s reading is based in a personal experience of the author, down-to-earth, and profound in their simplicity. The readings reveal the sincere needs of the writer’s heart in words that any believer can relate to. The reading is followed by suggested scriptures and “Journaling Considerations” which encourage the reader to dig deeper and write out the answers to searching questions. A simple prayer, based on the author’s heart-felt reaction to her own insights, and “Today’s Sweet Tea Moment” hone the message with precision to drive the point home for the reader.
I enthusiastically recommend God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea as a powerful aide to beginning your day with a godly outlook and encouragement to respond to the day’s circumstances as Jesus would. If you answer the questions and allow the messages to sink deep, your Christian walk cannot help growing. This simple little book is refreshing as a glass of sweet iced tea from start to finish.
I was attracted to this because I often refer to my own time with God in the mornings as "God and me and a cup of tea." But mine is spiced chai latte Hey, I'm a northern gal and while I like my tea sweet - I also like it hot and combined with other spices.
This devotional is also unusual because I'm still savoring it and enjoying it and it's not like a normal book to read and review where I was able to finish it on time. Well, I could have, because the chapters are short and, yes, sweet. Rushing through though would defeat the purpose of letting a book like this help you reignite your walk with God.
Rose set's this book up nicely with a scripture, devotional and then suggested readings and things to consider. I"m a gal who likes to journal and there is a little space in there for that. Probably not enough for me but since I have the e-book version, my thoughts go in my regular pencil and paper journal. It is followed by a brief prayer, a little "Sweet Tea Moment" and then a prayer focus.
I'm impressed at the simplicity but the depth of this devotional and if you need a little something special to spruce up your dates with God, then perhaps this will be your cup of tea!
“God, Me, & Sweet Iced Tea;” what a captivating title! I enjoyed reading each devotional mixed with spiritual truths and insights born out of Rose Johnson’s personal experiences and faith journey.
All the devotions were relevant to my life and to my faith walk with God. During one of my rare sleepless nights, imagine my astonishment when I picked up Rose’s book and opened it to the devotion where I had left off, “He Gives Sleep to His Beloved.” Indeed, reading this devotion and all others spoke to my heart. And, after reading that specific devotion that night, God immediately lulled me to sleep.
The suggested scriptures for further reading, the journaling considerations, prayer, and iced sweet tea moments contributed to my own personal reflections as I meditated on each devotion. I recommend this book and I pray you will allow Rose Chandler Johnson to take you on your devotional journey for encouragement in your life and provide inspiration as you encounter life’s challenges.
Every so often I really enjoy reading a good daily devotional book and God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea by Rose Chandler Johnson hit the spot. This book is as refreshing as an ice cold glass of sweet tea (Pun intended).
The author did a great job of developing a daily devotional which was easy to read and apply. Her format was excellent for applying it to your daily prayer time and journaling. I really found it helpful in renewing my personal prayer time.
Rose Chandler Johnson book is a great devotional for both new Christians who are just beginning their walk and for seasoned prayer warriors. Whether new or seasoned it is good to step back and take a fresh look at our prayer lives.
I really like God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea by Rose Chandler Johnson and highly recommend it to all readers.
Friends, Rose Chandler Johnson has written a book all women, in particular, should read, regardless of age, marital status or "situation" in life. I needed it more than I realized and it was a balm to my soul in so many ways. When those everyday moments and life's inevitable challenges get you down (everyone has "those" kinds of days), or even if life is good and smooth sailing, this book provides the remedy and/or the perfect balance of spiritual truths, encouragement and good old godly wisdom to uplift you with so many blessings. I can't recommend it enough. You will be so abundantly blessed!
You Can't Possibly Go Wrong With "Sweet Iced Tea" in the Title! Refreshment for the Soul.
God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea is an insightful and thought-provoking devotional. I love to read it during times of stress-you know, during those times when I really need to sit down, take a deep breath, have a refreshing glass of sweet tea, and connect with my Creator.
Straight from her heart, Rose Chandler Johnson has written a devotional that is refreshing to the heart, soul and mind. Take time for a sweet tea moment-it will sweeten your day, southern-style!
A great book! I especially found it helpful that at the end of each piece there was a prayer journal question to be answered.
Rose Chandler Johnson is deep and honest in her own struggles. It is heartfelt her love for God and scripture points. I found it full and complete and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to get comfortable with God. She has made me realize what an enormous relationship we can have with God and how important it is to spend quality alone time in his word, devotions, and prayer.
This devotional was well-written and had some great points that could speak to people from all walks of life. Each devotional was short, so it was easy to go through. However, I also enjoyed how, unlike some devotionals that only have one small verse to go with each day's devotion, this book had more than just a few quick optional verses to go with each day's reading. I appreciated that. Not only does the author give us something interesting and relatable to read, but she also encourages us to dig into God's word and experience God for ourselves.
If your desire is to draw closer to God and find Him in the ordinary, everyday moments of life, this is a must-read. Rose Chandler Johnson writes from a pure heart of love and a lifetime of practical and personal experience. Grab a glass of sweet iced tea and settle in with Rose's book as you spend time with the Father.
Rose brings Scripture to a practical and conversational level. If you do, indeed, just want a moment to sit down with a cold glass of iced tea (or whatever!) and talk to God for a bit, this book is a good help in that direction. I especially liked the journaling prompts. The story about her son in Iraq was particularly touching.