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It Is Finished
Tetelestai, "It is finished."
Jesus' final words on the Cross have impacted us for eternity. With His death and resurrection, He finished the work of our salvation. But our transformation continues. In his vibrant, storytelling tone, Charles Martin takes us on a journey to the Cross to examine how the Holy Spirit is now at work in us as we are continually being made "perfectly perfect."
As we gaze upon the Cross, it becomes a mirror that reflects our true selves and a magnifier that enlarges our view of who we are. Though we may be tempted to look away as we come face-to-face with shame, anger, lust, or pride. When we truly examine ourselves through the Cross, we see the sin that Christ died to redeem.
"The foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength." (1 Corinthians 1:25)
But we have been given the Holy Spirit, which is His power in us, and has removed the offense of the Cross. As we look to the Cross, we no longer see condemnation but hope as He transforms us to be more like Him.
Jesus' final words on the Cross have impacted us for eternity. With His death and resurrection, He finished the work of our salvation. But our transformation continues. In his vibrant, storytelling tone, Charles Martin takes us on a journey to the Cross to examine how the Holy Spirit is now at work in us as we are continually being made "perfectly perfect."
As we gaze upon the Cross, it becomes a mirror that reflects our true selves and a magnifier that enlarges our view of who we are. Though we may be tempted to look away as we come face-to-face with shame, anger, lust, or pride. When we truly examine ourselves through the Cross, we see the sin that Christ died to redeem.
"The foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength." (1 Corinthians 1:25)
But we have been given the Holy Spirit, which is His power in us, and has removed the offense of the Cross. As we look to the Cross, we no longer see condemnation but hope as He transforms us to be more like Him.
Paperback
First published January 1, 2024
109 people are currently reading
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About the author
Charles Martin
51 books9,517 followersCharles Martin is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author. He and his wife, Christy, live in Jacksonville, FL. Learn more at charlesmartinbooks.com; Instagram: @storiedcareer; X: @storiedcareer; Facebook: @Author.Charles.Martin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
March 30, 2024
It Is Finished - Charles Martin - 5 Stars
I have to say, this is the best Easter Devotional I have done leading up to Easter thus far. Such a beautiful storytelling experience to the cross. I loved the walking back to the cross parts in each day and the prayers. I think this one is so well needed because the way Charles Martin explains what Jesus went through - TRULY went through - will touch you in such a way that it's almost like being told for the first time about his death. It's so well needed because many times I think we forget what He truly went through on the cross for our sins in our place. We deserve death. But He stood in our place. Because He loves us that much.
This is not your average devotional. It will truly minister to you. Highly recommend.
May 1, 2024
Yallllllll!!! I can't describe the amount of joy and edification that I got out of reading this, especially during Easter and passover. You could honestly read this any time of year because we should never forget the cross and what Jesus did for us. 🙌🏼😭❤️ I also read this with my husband, which made it all the more special for me.
Highly, highly recommend!!
Highly, highly recommend!!
February 17, 2024
Amazing! Transformative! Life-Changing!
It Is Finished by Charles Martin isn't just your average devotional—it's like a soulful journey to the heart of the cross, and it's left an eternal mark on me. This book isn't about fancy words or religious jargon; it's about Jesus and how His sacrifice changed everything. I was driven to my knees in worship countless times.
From the first word, Martin's writing had me hooked. He didn't just tell the story of the cross; he made me feel like I was right there, witnessing and understanding the depth of it all. And when Jesus said, "It is finished," I felt it in my bones—like everything had shifted, and I couldn't look away.
What I love most is how Martin keeps it real. He doesn't sugarcoat the gritty details of Jesus' suffering. He lays it all out there, raw and honest, so you can't help but be moved. And through it all, he reminds me that Jesus did it all for me—for us. It's like he's saying, "Hey, this is for you. This is how much you're loved."
But it's not just about the past; it's about how the cross impacts us right now. With each reflection, Martin brings it home, showing me how Jesus' sacrifice changes everything in my life. It's like he's saying, "Yeah, this happened 2,000 years ago, but it's still changing lives today—including yours."
And let me tell you, the prayers in this book hit different. They're not your typical, cookie-cutter prayers. They're real, heartfelt, and they speak straight to my soul. It's like Martin knows exactly what I need to hear and lays it out there, plain and simple.
By the time I finished this book, I felt like I'd been on a wild ride—one that's left me forever changed. It's like I'm seeing Jesus and the cross in a whole new light, and I can't help but be grateful. It's like Martin's saying, "Yeah, this book might be over, but the impact of the cross? That's eternal."
So, if you're looking for a devotional that'll shake you to your core and remind you of Jesus' endless love, this is it. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
If I could, I would give It is Finished 10 out of 5 stars and that still wouldn’t be enough.
I received an eARC for It Is Finished from Thomas Nelson – W Publishing through NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. Ensuring transparency and reliability, my review focuses on the heart wrenching and amazing assurance of this 40-day pilgrimage back to the cross.
It Is Finished by Charles Martin isn't just your average devotional—it's like a soulful journey to the heart of the cross, and it's left an eternal mark on me. This book isn't about fancy words or religious jargon; it's about Jesus and how His sacrifice changed everything. I was driven to my knees in worship countless times.
From the first word, Martin's writing had me hooked. He didn't just tell the story of the cross; he made me feel like I was right there, witnessing and understanding the depth of it all. And when Jesus said, "It is finished," I felt it in my bones—like everything had shifted, and I couldn't look away.
What I love most is how Martin keeps it real. He doesn't sugarcoat the gritty details of Jesus' suffering. He lays it all out there, raw and honest, so you can't help but be moved. And through it all, he reminds me that Jesus did it all for me—for us. It's like he's saying, "Hey, this is for you. This is how much you're loved."
But it's not just about the past; it's about how the cross impacts us right now. With each reflection, Martin brings it home, showing me how Jesus' sacrifice changes everything in my life. It's like he's saying, "Yeah, this happened 2,000 years ago, but it's still changing lives today—including yours."
And let me tell you, the prayers in this book hit different. They're not your typical, cookie-cutter prayers. They're real, heartfelt, and they speak straight to my soul. It's like Martin knows exactly what I need to hear and lays it out there, plain and simple.
By the time I finished this book, I felt like I'd been on a wild ride—one that's left me forever changed. It's like I'm seeing Jesus and the cross in a whole new light, and I can't help but be grateful. It's like Martin's saying, "Yeah, this book might be over, but the impact of the cross? That's eternal."
So, if you're looking for a devotional that'll shake you to your core and remind you of Jesus' endless love, this is it. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
If I could, I would give It is Finished 10 out of 5 stars and that still wouldn’t be enough.
I received an eARC for It Is Finished from Thomas Nelson – W Publishing through NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. Ensuring transparency and reliability, my review focuses on the heart wrenching and amazing assurance of this 40-day pilgrimage back to the cross.
April 11, 2025
Rarely do I read a book twice, but this one had me on my knees. It Is Finished: A 40 Day Pilgrimage Back to the Cross by Charles Martin is a definite read again worthy book. Forty days of reading about the events leading to the Cross which includes some historical perspectives is a wonderful way to prepare for Resurrection Sunday (Releasing Feb. 6th gives 7 weeks to prepare).
I will definitely be ordering this book so that I can highlight and reread over and over again.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing for the opportunity to read an ARC.
I will definitely be ordering this book so that I can highlight and reread over and over again.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing for the opportunity to read an ARC.
April 1, 2024
Audiobook (read by the author); read on the Kindle while listening.
This book broke my heart and took me to my knees over and over again throughout this “40-Day Pilgrimage.” Although I’m glad I read it in the days leading up to Resurrection Sunday, it is a journey that can be taken at any time during the year. Within the pages of this book, Charles Martin shows readers our own sin that required Jesus’s horrible death upon the cross as well as the love of our Savior that caused Him to make that sacrifice on our behalf. This book is filled with Scripture, and the prayers are among some of the most beautiful I have ever read. Don’t miss this book.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved/really enjoyed it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
This book broke my heart and took me to my knees over and over again throughout this “40-Day Pilgrimage.” Although I’m glad I read it in the days leading up to Resurrection Sunday, it is a journey that can be taken at any time during the year. Within the pages of this book, Charles Martin shows readers our own sin that required Jesus’s horrible death upon the cross as well as the love of our Savior that caused Him to make that sacrifice on our behalf. This book is filled with Scripture, and the prayers are among some of the most beautiful I have ever read. Don’t miss this book.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved/really enjoyed it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
March 13, 2024
4.5 stars.
Charles Martin is my most favorite Christian fiction writer....and he writes some great non-fiction as well. And this book is one of those.
I loved the journey he set out to describe with this book. He highlights specific moments in Jesus' life. I enjoyed his outlook and his insights....and his prayers. This was almost 5 stars for me. I may round up.....I need to give this one some serious thought.
Charles Martin is my most favorite Christian fiction writer....and he writes some great non-fiction as well. And this book is one of those.
I loved the journey he set out to describe with this book. He highlights specific moments in Jesus' life. I enjoyed his outlook and his insights....and his prayers. This was almost 5 stars for me. I may round up.....I need to give this one some serious thought.
February 5, 2024
I was provided a free advanced copy of this from @netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I have enjoyed many of Charles Martin's fiction stories, but in this 40 day devotional he takes an in depth look of the cross and what it meant for Jesus to say "It is Finished!" It's hard to rate a devotional, but I will do my best. I enjoyed the information and insight provided each day. I did gain some different perspectives that I hadn't seen before in familiar stories. The heart and purpose of bringing others to Jesus was evident in the heartfelt writing. This is one I would be interested in getting a published (non-ebook) version of since my ARC formatting was a bit off, and I'd like to be able to highlight, annotate, and refer back to passages!
I think it would be a great study leading up to the Easter season!
It is set to be published Tuesday, 6 February, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a devotional/Bible study. You won't be disappointed.
#NetGalley #ItIsFinished
I have enjoyed many of Charles Martin's fiction stories, but in this 40 day devotional he takes an in depth look of the cross and what it meant for Jesus to say "It is Finished!" It's hard to rate a devotional, but I will do my best. I enjoyed the information and insight provided each day. I did gain some different perspectives that I hadn't seen before in familiar stories. The heart and purpose of bringing others to Jesus was evident in the heartfelt writing. This is one I would be interested in getting a published (non-ebook) version of since my ARC formatting was a bit off, and I'd like to be able to highlight, annotate, and refer back to passages!
I think it would be a great study leading up to the Easter season!
It is set to be published Tuesday, 6 February, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a devotional/Bible study. You won't be disappointed.
#NetGalley #ItIsFinished
February 11, 2024
Speaking to the heart!
A sturdy, dynamic study attuned to the days of Jesus leading up to and including the Easter moments. Times of heartbreak, of tribulation and of celebration. The redemptive power of the cross. Martin always features hope and reclamation in his fiction, no matter how dark the subject matter. With this devotional one can see the basis for that. A gift for the season. Reflections for all.
A Thomas Nelson ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
A sturdy, dynamic study attuned to the days of Jesus leading up to and including the Easter moments. Times of heartbreak, of tribulation and of celebration. The redemptive power of the cross. Martin always features hope and reclamation in his fiction, no matter how dark the subject matter. With this devotional one can see the basis for that. A gift for the season. Reflections for all.
A Thomas Nelson ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Read
January 10, 2024It Is Finished: A 40-Day Pilgrimage Back to the Cross by Charles Martin is a glorious book.
He begins with our need for redemption and inability to save ourselves, and then he leads us to the cross. This is an achingly beautiful devotional written to prepare our hearts and minds to celebrate Jesus's redemptive work.
From the author's website:
"Across forty days of vivid storytelling, It Is Finished offers a unique and vital roadmap to trace the power and necessity of the cross throughout the Bible, from Genesis all the way to your present-day reality."
With every devotion, designed to be the length of about a cup of coffee, Charles Martin weaves vivid word pictures, drawing us close to the heart of God. The lens he uses engages all our senses and all our emotions, evoking in me the only logical response - worship. From Day 2:
"God takes as deep a breath as He can, filling His lungs, then presses His lips to our lips and breathes out, filling us with the breath of God. . .our first breath began in His lungs."
If you like the author's "no holds barred approach" to painful passages, you will love this book. He doesn't shy away from graphic descriptions of what the Lord endured for our sakes. He describes Jesus's back after His flogging as shredded. Hamburger. An uncomfortable truth that brings me to my knees.
This book isn't just a devotional on the work of the cross; it's a manual on how to pray meaningfully and intimately. Each devotion is filled with Scripture and offers a beautiful, vibrant prayer. My prayers can feel anemic and humdrum - these are powerful. And every prayer is followed by a response grounded in Scripture.
“I pray throughout this journey that you and I come face-to-face with both the weight of our need and the depth of the problem. I pray that we are undone by the truth of us. And I pray that we simultaneously experience the limitless joy of what Christ accomplished for us.” – p. XXIII, It is Finished
Charles Martin, mission accomplished.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to review this book.
He begins with our need for redemption and inability to save ourselves, and then he leads us to the cross. This is an achingly beautiful devotional written to prepare our hearts and minds to celebrate Jesus's redemptive work.
From the author's website:
"Across forty days of vivid storytelling, It Is Finished offers a unique and vital roadmap to trace the power and necessity of the cross throughout the Bible, from Genesis all the way to your present-day reality."
With every devotion, designed to be the length of about a cup of coffee, Charles Martin weaves vivid word pictures, drawing us close to the heart of God. The lens he uses engages all our senses and all our emotions, evoking in me the only logical response - worship. From Day 2:
"God takes as deep a breath as He can, filling His lungs, then presses His lips to our lips and breathes out, filling us with the breath of God. . .our first breath began in His lungs."
If you like the author's "no holds barred approach" to painful passages, you will love this book. He doesn't shy away from graphic descriptions of what the Lord endured for our sakes. He describes Jesus's back after His flogging as shredded. Hamburger. An uncomfortable truth that brings me to my knees.
This book isn't just a devotional on the work of the cross; it's a manual on how to pray meaningfully and intimately. Each devotion is filled with Scripture and offers a beautiful, vibrant prayer. My prayers can feel anemic and humdrum - these are powerful. And every prayer is followed by a response grounded in Scripture.
“I pray throughout this journey that you and I come face-to-face with both the weight of our need and the depth of the problem. I pray that we are undone by the truth of us. And I pray that we simultaneously experience the limitless joy of what Christ accomplished for us.” – p. XXIII, It is Finished
Charles Martin, mission accomplished.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to review this book.
May 22, 2025
Woah. What an incredible, breathtaking journey. This is as close as one can come to witnessing the heartbreaking, inspirational, life-taking, life-giving journey of those 40 days.
It goes without saying that the Bible is where we should be turning for the life and words of Jesus. Charles Martin includes all the scripture right here in this book, each day, along this walk.
I realize I was late on my reading “schedule” with this, but the impact and depth was just as heavy. Read this book. As soon as you can.
It goes without saying that the Bible is where we should be turning for the life and words of Jesus. Charles Martin includes all the scripture right here in this book, each day, along this walk.
I realize I was late on my reading “schedule” with this, but the impact and depth was just as heavy. Read this book. As soon as you can.
April 17, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ - It’s a great book. Beautifully written, and a wonderful way to spend each morning leading up to Holy Week.
July 10, 2025
I definitely loved this deep devotional. It took me more than 40 days; I got busy and forgot about it awhile but I highly recommend it! I definitely would like to read this again!
February 17, 2024
"What will you do with this man, Jesus?"
Charles Martin is one of my most favorite authors. I truly love his fiction.
But what I love and cherish most of all are his nonfiction novels, like this one, and "What if it's True?"
I love and appreciate his willingness to be vulnerable and share his love and tender relationship with Christ and God, and help us understand the Bible and the histories, peoples, socities, customs, etc of those we study in within it.
I have learned so much more in these two novels than I ever did in the nearly 48 years going to my former church, before we left it. (Long story)
I look forward to reading all of Charles ' books (I've read all his fiction novels).
Please keep on writing! I'm not done learning.
Charles Martin is one of my most favorite authors. I truly love his fiction.
But what I love and cherish most of all are his nonfiction novels, like this one, and "What if it's True?"
I love and appreciate his willingness to be vulnerable and share his love and tender relationship with Christ and God, and help us understand the Bible and the histories, peoples, socities, customs, etc of those we study in within it.
I have learned so much more in these two novels than I ever did in the nearly 48 years going to my former church, before we left it. (Long story)
I look forward to reading all of Charles ' books (I've read all his fiction novels).
Please keep on writing! I'm not done learning.
February 7, 2024
It is finished is a wonderful book centered on Jesus. It reminds the reader of the power of Christ and covers from Genesis to the present day. You take 40 days to explore the biblical accounts and discover that even though Christ's work was finished on the cross, that he continues his work in every one of us.
The author answers some important questions we all ask ourselves. It's a resource to keep on hand and to refer to often. It would make a good study for small groups.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
The author answers some important questions we all ask ourselves. It's a resource to keep on hand and to refer to often. It would make a good study for small groups.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
February 6, 2024
This is an outstanding forty day devotional to prepare your heart for the Easter season. Each day tells a part of the story leading up to the crucifixion and includes a section on walking back to the cross, a prayer, and God's response.
For Christians, this is a must-read for focusing on what Jesus did for us and why. For non-Christians, if you are interested in knowing more about Christianity, this fully explains what we believe. Some of it may be deep, but don't let that stop you. Ask questions. We will be happy to answer.
This devotional is beautifully written and soul stirring. Do not miss this one.
Family friendly though some descriptions of crucifixion are graphic.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my ownl
For Christians, this is a must-read for focusing on what Jesus did for us and why. For non-Christians, if you are interested in knowing more about Christianity, this fully explains what we believe. Some of it may be deep, but don't let that stop you. Ask questions. We will be happy to answer.
This devotional is beautifully written and soul stirring. Do not miss this one.
Family friendly though some descriptions of crucifixion are graphic.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my ownl
January 13, 2026
It Is Finished: A 40‑Day Pilgrimage Back to the Cross by Charles Martin Review
It Is Finished: A 40‑Day Pilgrimage Back to the Cross by Charles Martin is a deeply reflective Christian devotional crafted to lead readers through a forty‑day spiritual journey back to the heart of the gospel: the cross of Christ. Over the course of daily readings, Martin invites you to trace the necessity and impact of the cross throughout Scripture, beginning with Genesis and unfolding through the life, death, and ultimate meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice, asking timeless questions like what was truly finished at the cross? and how does that work shape our lives today? with sensitivity, narrative richness, and biblical insight. Each day is designed to blend vivid storytelling, biblical meditation, prayer, and reflection in a way that deepens your understanding of Calvary and its relevance for personal faith.
What stood out most for me in this devotional was how accessible and soul‑awakening Martin’s approach feels, even to readers who may have known the Easter story many times before. He uses forty snapshots of the Calvary narrative to unpack themes like suffering, redemption, identity, and grace, compelling you to ask why Jesus endured the cross and what that means for you personally.
I found this 40‑day structure powerful because it slowly dismantles superficial familiarity with the cross, helping you wrestle with both the historical reality and emotional weight of Jesus’ sacrifice and the daily implications for trust, forgiveness, and spiritual identity. Whether you’re preparing your heart for Easter or simply seeking a richer connection with Scripture and prayer, this devotional feels like walking with a wise companion through the biblical story of redemption, giving space to meditate, pray, and see familiar passages with fresh eyes.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Because its thoughtful reflections, vivid biblical storytelling, and heartfelt prayer prompts make this a profound, deeply enriching devotional journey that can transform how you see and live out the meaning of the cross.
It Is Finished: A 40‑Day Pilgrimage Back to the Cross by Charles Martin is a deeply reflective Christian devotional crafted to lead readers through a forty‑day spiritual journey back to the heart of the gospel: the cross of Christ. Over the course of daily readings, Martin invites you to trace the necessity and impact of the cross throughout Scripture, beginning with Genesis and unfolding through the life, death, and ultimate meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice, asking timeless questions like what was truly finished at the cross? and how does that work shape our lives today? with sensitivity, narrative richness, and biblical insight. Each day is designed to blend vivid storytelling, biblical meditation, prayer, and reflection in a way that deepens your understanding of Calvary and its relevance for personal faith.
What stood out most for me in this devotional was how accessible and soul‑awakening Martin’s approach feels, even to readers who may have known the Easter story many times before. He uses forty snapshots of the Calvary narrative to unpack themes like suffering, redemption, identity, and grace, compelling you to ask why Jesus endured the cross and what that means for you personally.
I found this 40‑day structure powerful because it slowly dismantles superficial familiarity with the cross, helping you wrestle with both the historical reality and emotional weight of Jesus’ sacrifice and the daily implications for trust, forgiveness, and spiritual identity. Whether you’re preparing your heart for Easter or simply seeking a richer connection with Scripture and prayer, this devotional feels like walking with a wise companion through the biblical story of redemption, giving space to meditate, pray, and see familiar passages with fresh eyes.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Because its thoughtful reflections, vivid biblical storytelling, and heartfelt prayer prompts make this a profound, deeply enriching devotional journey that can transform how you see and live out the meaning of the cross.
January 5, 2024
From the book: “Without this Cross, there is no tomb. No “He is risen.” No “firstborn from among the dead.” No Savior with the keys of death and hell dangling from His belt. No Alpha and Omega, Beginning and End. Before we can celebrate where He is not (i.e., the tomb) and why He is not there, we need to backtrack to where He’s been, how He got there, and what His presence there accomplished.”
This is the first book that I have read by this author. I found myself enthralled with his ability to paint such vivid scenes with his words. I found myself reading and re-reading the same day over and over again. I found myself in his plain straight-forward word pictures bringing to the fore that which is ugly, detestable, and foul. I found myself starting up at the Cross and simply asking myself, why would He do that… for me?
There are books that I may at some time pick up and read again. This is a book that requires a deep read – again – and a deeper study. I highly recommend this book, but be forewarned, it may take you much deeper into your love of our Savior.
Disclosure: I received this book free via NetGalley. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa....
This is the first book that I have read by this author. I found myself enthralled with his ability to paint such vivid scenes with his words. I found myself reading and re-reading the same day over and over again. I found myself in his plain straight-forward word pictures bringing to the fore that which is ugly, detestable, and foul. I found myself starting up at the Cross and simply asking myself, why would He do that… for me?
There are books that I may at some time pick up and read again. This is a book that requires a deep read – again – and a deeper study. I highly recommend this book, but be forewarned, it may take you much deeper into your love of our Savior.
Disclosure: I received this book free via NetGalley. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa....
March 20, 2025
I was just chocked by some of the writing in this book. Will even not repeat it here… Did not finish it obviously.
Find another devotional for the 40 days walk to the cross if you want one. To seek and to save by Sinclair Ferguson is great.
Find another devotional for the 40 days walk to the cross if you want one. To seek and to save by Sinclair Ferguson is great.
April 20, 2025
To prepare my heart for Easter, l’ve been reading It Is Finished by Charles Martin, and I truly cannot recommend it enough. It’s become one of my favorite devotionals for Lent—raw and emotional, yet full of rich insight that brings the full weight of the cross into focus.
I love that Martin takes us from the garden to the cross, as well as weaves together the words of the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament writers in a way that draws you in—so you see through their eyes but hear His voice. Each day, the reading invites you into a place of deep reflection and helps you see familiar truths in a new light.
If you’re looking for something that walks honestly through the sorrow and beauty of this season, this one is a treasure.
I love that Martin takes us from the garden to the cross, as well as weaves together the words of the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament writers in a way that draws you in—so you see through their eyes but hear His voice. Each day, the reading invites you into a place of deep reflection and helps you see familiar truths in a new light.
If you’re looking for something that walks honestly through the sorrow and beauty of this season, this one is a treasure.
Read
August 9, 2024Finished "It is Finished!"
It is always nice to read a book of reflections that is divided day by day.
The highlight was the final days, when the story of the crucifixion right from the text of the BIble was arranged into one narrative, but with the corresponding texts from Old Testament interwoven with the corrsponding New Testament. It made fir a powerful single narrative that helped contextualize the fulcrum of the entire Bible within the whole structure. It was very powerful being presented in that light.
It is always nice to read a book of reflections that is divided day by day.
The highlight was the final days, when the story of the crucifixion right from the text of the BIble was arranged into one narrative, but with the corresponding texts from Old Testament interwoven with the corrsponding New Testament. It made fir a powerful single narrative that helped contextualize the fulcrum of the entire Bible within the whole structure. It was very powerful being presented in that light.
March 24, 2024
What an amazing book, difficult to read at times because of the vividness of its description of what was done to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It was a great idea to write it as a devotional because it would be too difficult to read otherwise. Since It is a 40 day devotional I decided to read it during the Lenten season. Great job Charles-your book definitely fulfilled your purpose for writing it.
October 14, 2024
I so wish that the timing had worked out to read this book during Lent, but it was still powerful. Martin’s style achieves the balance that is so hard: the ability to communicate with our powerful God while maintaining the amount of respect deserved. Many thoughts are still bouncing around in my head and heart from this one.
May 21, 2024
Truly the best devotional I’ve ever read. I don’t think anyone can be the same after this journey. Powerful, thought-provoking, heart wrenching, hopeful, joyful, glorifying, beautiful…the list goes on. Just…wow. I am grateful that Charles Martin was obedient when he was asked to put pen to paper.
May 30, 2024
I really appreciated Mr. Martin’s fresh perspective of Jesus’ life and sacrifice for us. He made it sound so much more human with his insights. I listened to the audio version of the book and you could hear the emotion in his voice throughout the book. I’m really glad I listened to this one. The only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars was because there was a very small amount of redundancy.
April 20, 2025
Wonderful 40 day devotional focusing on the days before Jesus’ death on the cross. Each day encourages the reader to walk back to the cross, and has a prayer, and a response from God section. Thoroughly Scripture based. Will share copies of the book with my adult children.
March 31, 2024
A good devotional for the Lenten season. Nothing new or earth shattering, but I enjoyed incorporating it into my quiet time leading up to Easter.
June 9, 2025
Excellent Devotional about Jesus and why He came.
Would be perfect book to prepare your heart for Easter.
Makes the Bible personal.
Would be perfect book to prepare your heart for Easter.
Makes the Bible personal.
July 18, 2025
So good that I purchased the book to read over and over!
August 5, 2025
Powerful book. Very impactful. God certainly used Charles Martin with this book, which is surely his most important.
September 18, 2024
Charles Martin is a fabulous storyteller which enhances his ability to bring biblical fact to life. This book uses biblical narrative from Genesis forward to show how deeply we need redemption and salvation. Without distorting biblical fact Charles Martin helps the reader slow down and look a little deeper and perhaps with a different perspective at truths surrounding the cross. The 15 minute a day devotional format is perfect as Easter approaches.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers for the opportunity to read for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers for the opportunity to read for my honest review.
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