Appreciate These Things: Eight Ways of Cultivating Compassion

by Jill J. Duffield

In a world tense with anger and division, how can we preserve our sense of well-being and inject a little more kindness into our daily interactions?



Pastor Jill J. Duffield finds an answer in the apostle Paul’s guidance in Philippians 4:8: “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”



Thinking about, looking for, appreciating these eight things can reorient our hearts and minds in ways that nurture compassion for ourselves, those in need, and those with whom we are inclined to disagree. Duffield leads the way with stories and insights that will transform your outlook on the world—and maybe even the world itself.



With eight chapters of six reflections each, Appreciate These Things can serve as a daily devotional, an eight-week group study, or an accessible, inspirational individual read.

160 pages, Paperback

Published March 17, 2025

Reviews

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was assigned to review this book for a women’s group reading program. It is short and sweet, I read it in a day. A good reflection on how to apply Philippians 4:8 to your everyday life. A lot of practical ideas that can be applied to your life as well as discussion questions that would be good for a group discussion.

[Janet Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Should be required reading for anyone contemplating or currently in a roll leading people.

[Sarah R. Loper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever thought of purity being connected to curiosity? What about when you choose curiosity over judgement? That certainly seems to connect curiosity to purity to me! But, it never had until I read Appreciate These Things by Jill J. Duffield
I am very thankful to have received an ARC of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley!
Breaking the verse down, word by word on what concepts we should fix our minds on, Jill gives us practical ways to actually put these thoughts and concepts into practice!
While I have read Philippians 4:8 countless times in my life, I love how this book broke it down and made it fresh and new.
Great applications of a great verse!

[Tina Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I read this book in one sitting and it is a definite reread. This is a great book which talks about eight ways to reorient our hearts and minds as the summary says. I love how this book focuses on scripture which brings forth thoughtful ways to change my outlook on life. I love how the book focuses on positive changes. This is a great book about healing and moving forward.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has written a lovely guide to help others become more aware , appreciative, and compassionate. Her self deprecation and good humor with the insightful stories she shares make the book a small treasure.

[Ltcls · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bible study group liked it, but I found it up and down. Some chapters were good, but others repetitive.

[Kathryn McGregor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This made for a good conversation piece with my messy motherhood group. We look forward to meeting with Hill next week to unpack it a little more.