What do you think?
Rate this book
Tracing His Promise: Understanding the Bigger Story of Jesus and What That Means for Us
While the stories of Jesus in the New Testament may feel like familiar friends, the ancient tales of the Old Testament can seem daunting and distant. But fear not, for within this audiobook lies a treasure trove waiting to be discovered—a promise that echoes from the beginning of time to the humble cradle in Bethlehem.
In Tracing His Promise, Donna Amidon invites you on a transformative journey through twenty-five key stories, unraveling the intricate tapestry of God's redemptive plan. Through her gentle guidance, you'll witness how Jesus is not confined to the Gospels alone but weaves his presence throughout the entire Bible, even in the most unexpected corners of the Old Testament.
Amidon blends rich theology, heartwarming anecdotes, and practical wisdom that will not only deepen your faith but also illuminate the interconnectedness of Scripture. With each turn of the page, you'll find yourself drawn closer to the heart of God's story, finding renewed peace and hope for today. But the journey doesn't end there. With engaging discussion questions, you'll be equipped to foster meaningful family traditions, ensuring that the story of Jesus is passed down from generation to generation—a precious heirloom of faith.
In Tracing His Promise, Donna Amidon invites you on a transformative journey through twenty-five key stories, unraveling the intricate tapestry of God's redemptive plan. Through her gentle guidance, you'll witness how Jesus is not confined to the Gospels alone but weaves his presence throughout the entire Bible, even in the most unexpected corners of the Old Testament.
Amidon blends rich theology, heartwarming anecdotes, and practical wisdom that will not only deepen your faith but also illuminate the interconnectedness of Scripture. With each turn of the page, you'll find yourself drawn closer to the heart of God's story, finding renewed peace and hope for today. But the journey doesn't end there. With engaging discussion questions, you'll be equipped to foster meaningful family traditions, ensuring that the story of Jesus is passed down from generation to generation—a precious heirloom of faith.
304 pages, Paperback
Published August 13, 2024
About the author
Donna Amidon
2 books45 followersA graduate of Southern Evangelical Seminary, Donna is a wife, mom, speaker, author, musician, and lover of all things Bible. Since college, Donna has dedicated herself to engaging women in the rich truths of Scripture while weaving its application into daily life.
With a passion for the local church, Donna has served as a Bible teacher, worship leader, radio broadcaster, small groups director, and pastor’s wife.
Currently, Donna is an active speaker for Stonecroft Ministries and women’s events. In addition to speaking, Donna works for Back to the Bible as a Spiritual Fitness Coach, hosting short video programs to encourage Christians in their spiritual journey.
Visit her at www.donnaamidon.org. She'd love to say hi!
With a passion for the local church, Donna has served as a Bible teacher, worship leader, radio broadcaster, small groups director, and pastor’s wife.
Currently, Donna is an active speaker for Stonecroft Ministries and women’s events. In addition to speaking, Donna works for Back to the Bible as a Spiritual Fitness Coach, hosting short video programs to encourage Christians in their spiritual journey.
Visit her at www.donnaamidon.org. She'd love to say hi!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 7, 2024
This book truly has a way of weaving the tapestry of both Old and New Testaments and creates understanding in the most beautiful of ways to the reader. The Q and A after each chapter helps make the necessary connections to develop spiritual growth. I have already been able to share excerpts from the book, with family and friends who need encouragement due to circumstances they are currently going through. Thank you
August 1, 2024
I am so excited!!!
!My friend, Donna Amidon has written her first book, and it’s available NOW!!!!
If you've ever wondered how the Old Testament relates to the New Testament, Donna does an amazing job of tracing His promises. This book is a powerful, biblically grounded study that reveals profound connections between Old Testament Scripture and the Messiah, who was born in Bethlehem and is undeniably Jesus. Donna illuminates the significance of events, prophesies, and people of Old Testament times-not only how they relate directly to Jesus's birth but also how Jesus was present from the beginning of it all! (pre-order 👇👇👇) Golden nuggets of truth hidden in plain sight!
I just got my copy yesterday. I started reading this morning and I’m so excited about all that God is going to reveal to me. It has already begun!
Get your copy! What a difference it can make for you and your whole family as you learn and share the connections between promise and fulfillment.
!My friend, Donna Amidon has written her first book, and it’s available NOW!!!!
If you've ever wondered how the Old Testament relates to the New Testament, Donna does an amazing job of tracing His promises. This book is a powerful, biblically grounded study that reveals profound connections between Old Testament Scripture and the Messiah, who was born in Bethlehem and is undeniably Jesus. Donna illuminates the significance of events, prophesies, and people of Old Testament times-not only how they relate directly to Jesus's birth but also how Jesus was present from the beginning of it all! (pre-order 👇👇👇) Golden nuggets of truth hidden in plain sight!
I just got my copy yesterday. I started reading this morning and I’m so excited about all that God is going to reveal to me. It has already begun!
Get your copy! What a difference it can make for you and your whole family as you learn and share the connections between promise and fulfillment.
August 4, 2024
This beautiful book takes a 25 day journey through the Old Testament revealing that creation points to Jesus from day one. Amidon unpacks 25 stories that point to the coming of Christ and brings the Old Testament to life in a way that I had never experienced before. This book is perfect to sit and read through, do as a 25 day devotional and/or complete a Bible study with. Her practical writing and teaching brings to scripture and practical application to daily life.
July 30, 2024
Tracing His Promise connects the Old & New Testaments together in a way that emphasizes the beauty and brillance of God's redemptive plan. You will encounter Jesus there in those Old Testament stories where you may have missed him before. Chapter after chapter, Amidon points her readers back to the truth of the Scriptures, and the trust we can have when we understand the bigger story of Jesus. Chapters conclude with engaging and thought provoking questions.
The Jesse Tree component of the book is truly a meaningful way for families to embrace the tradition of celebrating Advent. Each chapter follows one day from creation to His birth in Bethlehem. A link is included for beautifully illustrated printable ornaments.
This book is a gem you can enjoy and reread year after year. It would make a great family, small group or women's bible study as well.
The Jesse Tree component of the book is truly a meaningful way for families to embrace the tradition of celebrating Advent. Each chapter follows one day from creation to His birth in Bethlehem. A link is included for beautifully illustrated printable ornaments.
This book is a gem you can enjoy and reread year after year. It would make a great family, small group or women's bible study as well.
August 2, 2024
I'm currently in the middle of Tracing His Promise, and I had to share how amazing it is! This 25-day study is really deepening my understanding and faith in Jesus. Each day dives into one of His promises with scripture, insightful commentary, and questions that make me think and reflect deeply.
The author’s writing feels so warm and relatable, making it easy to grasp even the complex stuff. I love how it combines reflection, prayer, and practical actions – it’s not just about reading but really living out these truths.
The author’s writing feels so warm and relatable, making it easy to grasp even the complex stuff. I love how it combines reflection, prayer, and practical actions – it’s not just about reading but really living out these truths.
August 1, 2024
I am so excited to start this! Just pages in and it’s so beautifully relatable and approachable—like reconnecting with an old friend! Tracing His Promises is a study that threads Christ throughout the scriptures, pointing to all He was and all He is, and to the promise that He’s coming again. I’ve known Donna most of my life, and her friendship and love of the word in our teenage years was instrumental in my own walk. Get this on order—it’s the study you’ve been needing!!
July 27, 2024
Can’t wait to read Donna’s new book! I love to listen to her be a guest speaker at our ladies Bible group, so I’m sure I will enjoy reading her book!
August 11, 2024
As Donna retells Old Testament stories, she has a creative way of drawing you into each biblical story. Her questions make you think about what's happening in that biblical time period.
Each chapter helps you apply what you've read to the season of life that you're going through. I need these reminders or ideas to challenge my faith.
Each chapter helps you apply what you've read to the season of life that you're going through. I need these reminders or ideas to challenge my faith.
August 28, 2024
This beautiful book traces Jesus--the Word made flesh, the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world--in 25 Bible references from both the Old Testament and the New. Starting in Genesis, as a matter of fact! Author Donna Amidon takes readers on an incredible journey of Jesus. At creation; at the Fall; through the lives of Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. He's prefigured in events as well, like the Passover and the giving of the Law. He's seen in more lives (in Ruth's, as the Kinsman-Redeemer, or David's, Josiah's, and Jesse's) and events (in Shadrach's, Meshach's, and Abednego's fiery furnace) or definitions (our peace, our return from exile, and more). Of course the events and the people at His birth also represent key Scriptural truths to us.
Amidon has organized this book to be used in personal reading as a devotional or for a group study. Even more, readers can create Jesse Trees by making ornaments representing Jesus in each way that's discussed here. (Amidon has downloadable images that readers can access.)
I loved every minute I spent reading this book. Amidon handles Scripture with excellent wisdom, clarity, and truth. Her Bible teaching is easy to apply and apprehend for one's own life. And making a Jesse Tree, whether it's with the author's images or by creating crafts, can be a lovely Advent activity and illustration for both children and adults. Definitely a 5-star read, and celebration!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own
Amidon has organized this book to be used in personal reading as a devotional or for a group study. Even more, readers can create Jesse Trees by making ornaments representing Jesus in each way that's discussed here. (Amidon has downloadable images that readers can access.)
I loved every minute I spent reading this book. Amidon handles Scripture with excellent wisdom, clarity, and truth. Her Bible teaching is easy to apply and apprehend for one's own life. And making a Jesse Tree, whether it's with the author's images or by creating crafts, can be a lovely Advent activity and illustration for both children and adults. Definitely a 5-star read, and celebration!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own
July 19, 2024
As an endorser, I received an advanced copy of this book. Tracing His Promise is a powerful, biblically grounded study that reveals profound connections between Old Testament Scripture and the Messiah who was born in Bethlehem and is undeniably Jesus. Throughout the study, Amidon illuminates for the reader the significance of events, prophesies, and people of Old Testament times-not only how they relate directly to Jesus's birth but also how Jesus was present from the beginning of it all. Amidon engages readers through thought-provoking questions, impactful illustrations, and deep insight. She invites families to incorporate the Jesse Tree into their Christmas traditions and provides creative ideas and printable ornaments. Amidon's passion is evident at every turn of the page while she helps readers make golden-nugget connections hidden in plain sight. This study is unique and impactful! Don't miss it!
August 22, 2024
Finally, a book to help me bring some depth to our Christmas season in an easily understandable and manageable way. There are 25 days of stories that deepen the understanding of how the Old and New Testaments are interconnected. Each day's reading includes questions that I'm going to use to spark a conversation with my kids. The reading part is about 8 pages per day with 2 pages of discussion questions including space for answers. Every day has a corresponding printable ornament that ties into the story, adding a hands-on element. By the end, you'll have a decorated tree that tells the story of Jesus's lineage and promise. I read the book in a few days and will do the ornaments and stories with my kids leading up to Christmas. This will be an excellent option for group Bible study, individual reading, or families looking to enrich their Christmas traditions. There are several extra resources at the end of the book. Gave it 5 stars!
August 13, 2024
Tracing His Promise is a great book for anyone wanting to level up their relationship with God or wanting to gift that to someone else. Donna Amidon breathes everyday relatability, practicality, and inspiration into well-known biblical stories. I especially loved the chapter on “Noah’s walking with God” and how he for 100 years built the ark in faith and obedience. And the world was forever changed. For those “daring greatly” in life, we’ve all encountered days where in the heat of the challenge we wondered, “Should I be doing this?” or “How do I keep doing this?” Her inspired perspective reminds us of WHOM we walk with, and how big and faithful HE is. It's also a great pre-Christmas gift as the chapters or “days” are laid out perfectly for those wanting to start or deepen a tradition of celebrating Advent and the true meaning of Christmas (though a great read any time of year).
August 30, 2024
Summary:
Donna Amidon’s nonfiction book, Tracing His Promise: Understanding the Bigger Story With Jesus and What That Means For Us, reveals God’s redemptive plan as it weaves both Old and New Testament scriptures together. Amidon highlights scripture that identifies Jesus as Savior from the initial pages of the Bible.
My thoughts:
Amidon sparks fresh interest in familiar—and less familiar—Bible stories while sharing applicable personal anecdotes illuminating scriptural truths. Each chapter concludes with questions one can use for individual or small-group Bible study. In addition, Tracing His Promise includes several appendices. One even provides a template the reader can use to incorporate a Jesse Tree into her Christmas traditions.
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a group study or a fresh perspective on the Christmas season.
Donna Amidon’s nonfiction book, Tracing His Promise: Understanding the Bigger Story With Jesus and What That Means For Us, reveals God’s redemptive plan as it weaves both Old and New Testament scriptures together. Amidon highlights scripture that identifies Jesus as Savior from the initial pages of the Bible.
My thoughts:
Amidon sparks fresh interest in familiar—and less familiar—Bible stories while sharing applicable personal anecdotes illuminating scriptural truths. Each chapter concludes with questions one can use for individual or small-group Bible study. In addition, Tracing His Promise includes several appendices. One even provides a template the reader can use to incorporate a Jesse Tree into her Christmas traditions.
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a group study or a fresh perspective on the Christmas season.
August 13, 2024
Donna Amidon's relatable stories draw you in. Then, she shares insights into Bible stories you've always known, but just didn't see in that perspective. Her deep wisdom across the Bible & the connections she makes powerfully impact you. (Grab some pens – you’ll want to record her words in your Bible to savor for years to come!)
Charity Amidon’s unforgettable images compel you to look even more closely and reflect on your new understandings of the Old Testament in your celebration of Jesus & His unbelievable promises. (And the ornaments?!? Gorgeous!) This life-changing book & tradition becomes a legacy you’ll want to pass along to your children, grandchildren, and the generations to come. It’s. That. Good.
Charity Amidon’s unforgettable images compel you to look even more closely and reflect on your new understandings of the Old Testament in your celebration of Jesus & His unbelievable promises. (And the ornaments?!? Gorgeous!) This life-changing book & tradition becomes a legacy you’ll want to pass along to your children, grandchildren, and the generations to come. It’s. That. Good.
July 31, 2024
Is a standing ovation possible for a book? Everyone needs Tracing His Promise in their collection/library! I’ve read and studied it solo first round, next stop will be a group study, then I look forward to walking through it year after year until the pages are tattered and torn, it is that good, for advent with my family. There are so many layers and depths to explore from who Jesus is, biblical truths, glimpses of heart stories from Donna’s life adventures, gorgeous illustrations, to God’s promises. Reminders, no matter what you’re facing God is always with you. I will forever look at a white t-shirt with new eyes!
August 12, 2024
Welcome His story into your home in a unique way this advent season by ordering your copy of Tracing His Promise. Don’t miss an opportunity to discover truths waiting to be revealed inside your heart. You are loved. 💜
This is not your typical advent book. Donna opens each chapter of the advent stories we know with personal experiences that helps us all relate to the biblical era. Each chapter’s reflections and questions will stretch you to critically think about your own deeply rooted spiritual heritage and posterity. Donna affirms, “It’s a past event that points to a present reality. It’s the blueprint for our salvation-salvation through faith.” Isn’t that beautiful!
This is not your typical advent book. Donna opens each chapter of the advent stories we know with personal experiences that helps us all relate to the biblical era. Each chapter’s reflections and questions will stretch you to critically think about your own deeply rooted spiritual heritage and posterity. Donna affirms, “It’s a past event that points to a present reality. It’s the blueprint for our salvation-salvation through faith.” Isn’t that beautiful!
August 13, 2024
I’m always in search of studies and resources that help bring scripture to new light. Tracing His Promise does an amazing job of helping you look through the lens of the Old Testament and see how Jesus was an intricate part of every story. Bible stories that I’ve known since my early Sunday school days came to life in a new way as I saw God’s redemptive plan traced from the very beginning. I enjoyed the thought provoking questions for each chapter. The interactive resources provided are such a fun addition to the book - I can’t wait to incorporate these with my own family. Highly recommend!
August 20, 2024
I have loved Tracing His Promise so far! I’m 6 chapters in and I would highly recommend it. The author incorporates practical life stories with life lessons and Scripture to remind us the story of Jesus began long before Bethlehem.
I am a mom of three young kids and I can’t wait to begin a Jesse Tree tradition this Christmas to refocus us each day on what the season is really about. The drawings are beautiful (done by her teenage daughter which is incredible!) and I love the bonus material included like digital printouts for the ornaments.
A great find!
I am a mom of three young kids and I can’t wait to begin a Jesse Tree tradition this Christmas to refocus us each day on what the season is really about. The drawings are beautiful (done by her teenage daughter which is incredible!) and I love the bonus material included like digital printouts for the ornaments.
A great find!
October 13, 2024
This book is a great way to prepare for the Christmas season. I had never really heard of the Jesse tree and I like how the activity is built into the book. It helps me know how to teach Christmas to my kids in a fun way!
I also really enjoyed reading this as a daily devotional. The author does a great job bringing the Bible to life! It was a beautiful book and I can’t wait to get started on my Jesse tree!
I also really enjoyed reading this as a daily devotional. The author does a great job bringing the Bible to life! It was a beautiful book and I can’t wait to get started on my Jesse tree!
August 8, 2024
Donna has a way of drawing you into the story. This story being about Jesus and how he is woven throughout the whole Bible, starting even in the first chapter of Genesis. I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to learn more about who Jesus really is and how God wrote him into the Bible, even from the very beginning when God created the heavens and the earth.
August 13, 2024
This is an amazing book that you need in your personal library. If you want to explore Bible stories that show the thread of Christ from creation to the manger, buy this book. You can easily share this with a group or complete individually. It will equip you to also share with your children and others.
Highly recommend this book!
Highly recommend this book!
April 8, 2025
Bible teacher, Donna Amidon, unveils the promise and presence of our Savior as she guides the reader through twenty-five Old Testament stories.
Each day includes scripture for reflection, commentary, and questions for consideration. A great book to read for personal faith development or to use in a small-group.
Each day includes scripture for reflection, commentary, and questions for consideration. A great book to read for personal faith development or to use in a small-group.
February 25, 2025
A beautiful chronology of God’s promises through Scripture! I think there’s something for anyone to take from this - regardless of how familiar with the Bible they are. Highly recommend! It’s well researched, engaging, & compassionately written!!
July 17, 2024
Get your copy today & discover twenty-five Old Testament stories that point to Jesus Christ. Enjoy the added discussion questions and gorgeous artwork!
August 13, 2025
Such a good overview of Jesus throughout Scripture. Great for a group Bible study, personal study, or for use as a family celebration in December leading up to Christmas.
August 14, 2024
"This book has been needed for so long. Too many people have either forgotten or they never knew that Jesus was always plan A. He was never plan B.
The Abrahamic covenant, the 10 commandments, THE LAW are all pointing to THE ONE who planned to die for us since before HE said, “Let there be light”.
I can’t wait to continue reading and finding the Easter eggs of JESUS throughout the Old Testament."
The Abrahamic covenant, the 10 commandments, THE LAW are all pointing to THE ONE who planned to die for us since before HE said, “Let there be light”.
I can’t wait to continue reading and finding the Easter eggs of JESUS throughout the Old Testament."
August 15, 2024
This book has truly painted such a beautiful picture of the interwoven love story of Jesus Himself throughout all of scripture! It’s engaging, it’s encouraging, it’s transformative, and it’s Biblical! Highly highly recommend
January 18, 2026
Tracing His Promise has proven to be a unique study, connecting Jesus Christ to the Old Testament. Until reading this book I never really thought about searching for Jesus in the Old Testament. The research Donna Amidon has shared with everyone is a fascinating and Biblical way to help each of us search and connect deeper with Christ in such a profound way. Her examples of real life situations tapping into each chapter brings a personal touch to each page and brings this book down to Earth for anyone who wants to deepen their relationship with Jesus. The questions are thought provoking and the idea of the Jesse Tree is a great way to connect and discover with the whole family. A must read!
September 9, 2024
A meaningful look at Jesus beyond the New Testament. What started as an Advent tradition, is something that every believer can learn from all year long. We sometimes forget that Jesus was in the Old Testament and His presence is a constant throughout eternity. Donna challenges our perspective and how we live out the reality that Jesus has always been here.
January 1, 2025
I've been going through this book with 8 other ladies each week, and we have always had very good discussion around the topics. It's a great study that traces the promise of Jesus throughout Scripture from Creation to Revelation. We all have really enjoyed it!
April Graney
Best Selling Author
The Marvelous Mud House
The Marvelous Maker
If Jesus Came To My School (June 2025)
April Graney
Best Selling Author
The Marvelous Mud House
The Marvelous Maker
If Jesus Came To My School (June 2025)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews