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Fighting Words Devotional: 100 Days of Speaking Truth into the Darkness
Whether it’s a dream that isn’t coming true, a stretch of the journey that feels especially dark, or just the basic “busy and tired” each of us braves in the crazy chaos of the ordinary, have you ever faced a season where “life to the full” feels just out of reach, light seems like it it’s just over the horizon, or lies seem to crowd out the truth? If you’re anything like Ellie Holcomb, the answer is yes. For her in these seasons, God’s Word has been a shelter, a comfort, a song, a balm, and an anchor. Ultimately, it’s been a light that has helped kick back at the darkness of the lies we so often believe.
In her debut devotional, Fighting Words, you are invited to come alongside Ellie, as you ponder the power of God’s promises together and speak them into the darkest corners of your soul. Filled with encouraging and honest reflections, beautifully designed Scripture memory chapters, and wonderful questions to help you process, Fighting Words is a place where you can wrestle, respond to, and take hold of precious truths in God's Word to help you push back the lies that so often consume, distract, and destroy us. God's Word is alive.
In this devotional, Ellie invites you to steep your soul in the living Word, take hold of it, wrestle with it, bury it in your heart, and watch as it brings about life and flourishing. As you journey along with Ellie, you’ll find that little by little, you're fighting the lies with the truth, kicking back the darkness, and living in the light.
In her debut devotional, Fighting Words, you are invited to come alongside Ellie, as you ponder the power of God’s promises together and speak them into the darkest corners of your soul. Filled with encouraging and honest reflections, beautifully designed Scripture memory chapters, and wonderful questions to help you process, Fighting Words is a place where you can wrestle, respond to, and take hold of precious truths in God's Word to help you push back the lies that so often consume, distract, and destroy us. God's Word is alive.
In this devotional, Ellie invites you to steep your soul in the living Word, take hold of it, wrestle with it, bury it in your heart, and watch as it brings about life and flourishing. As you journey along with Ellie, you’ll find that little by little, you're fighting the lies with the truth, kicking back the darkness, and living in the light.
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Published October 15, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
September 17, 2021
Full disclosure, I have yet to finish this book. Not because it is bad, quite the opposite. I got this as an ARC, for which I am grateful, however I love the structure of the book (and the words!) so much that I don't want to hurry through it, instead I'll leave a preview review as I wait to get a physical copy of this devotional.
What is great about it?
I like the layout first of all, I also like the illustrated quotes that appear at intervals. At first I wasn't sure about the lack of space to write in the book, however, keeping your notes separate will make it easier to re-visit and lend this book to others if you wish, so that's a plus when I think about it.
I also really like the structure of each day - your have a Bible quote, a segment from the author that is personal but not too personal, questions for contemplation, then a prayer. I really thought that the questions were very effective and powerful, which is partly why I want this as a physical copy. I need to dwell on some of these questions, as well as the prayers (which are a perfect way to finish each day of reading).
Once I started bookmarking every page on my tablet I knew it was something I would need to get it and that a digital copy wasn't enough.
So, even if I didn't finish it I can already, in good conscience, recommend it!
Thank you so much to the publishers, the author, and Netgalley for this ARC, I look forward to the print!
What is great about it?
I like the layout first of all, I also like the illustrated quotes that appear at intervals. At first I wasn't sure about the lack of space to write in the book, however, keeping your notes separate will make it easier to re-visit and lend this book to others if you wish, so that's a plus when I think about it.
I also really like the structure of each day - your have a Bible quote, a segment from the author that is personal but not too personal, questions for contemplation, then a prayer. I really thought that the questions were very effective and powerful, which is partly why I want this as a physical copy. I need to dwell on some of these questions, as well as the prayers (which are a perfect way to finish each day of reading).
Once I started bookmarking every page on my tablet I knew it was something I would need to get it and that a digital copy wasn't enough.
So, even if I didn't finish it I can already, in good conscience, recommend it!
Thank you so much to the publishers, the author, and Netgalley for this ARC, I look forward to the print!
April 25, 2022
This is a fantastic book for people who are busy and are wanting to grow in their ability to have a consistent quiet time, but struggle with making time for it in their schedule. Each devotional is about a page and a half to two pages and focuses on one or two verses for the day. Ellie's writing is very encouraging and uplifting. She really speaks to people who struggle with mental health challenges, as well as people who have had a difficult time lately. This is also the kind of book I would gift to a friend who is getting over some traumas or loss and can't focus for a very long time. It's just enough of a bite to keep you going while you heal. It is not at all a book that would be overwhelming or would send the message of, "here's a book to fix your life." That said, it is not the deepest theologically, but it's not errant either.
July 5, 2021
This book will allow you help you spend 100 days “Anchoring yourself down in the promises of God!” You will daily look at the 3 P’s well technically 4 : Promises, Process & Pray, and Permanence! You have space to journal every now and again which is huge to be able to process. I do like the format. I felt daily journaling pages would be useful but you could always use a separate journal.
Currently reading
January 11, 2025Pre read-
This is the first devotional book I’ve gotten in a while. Im SO HAPPY!!!
This is the first devotional book I’ve gotten in a while. Im SO HAPPY!!!
September 9, 2022
Really encouraging devotional. Nothing earth shattering or mind blowing in it but just simple reminders of the truth. Would highly recommend.
September 7, 2022
Great Book! We can all use some Fighting Words to get us through our days. I am sure I will be reading this again real soon! Great use of scripture.
September 7, 2022
I love Ellie Holcomb, especially her music and way she shares truth. I will do this devotional again. Thanks for giving me new “Fighting Words.”
September 8, 2022
I really loved this group study with Proverbs 31 Online Bible Study. We read one a day and in a shared group, answered one of her questions per day. They also linked to her songs that were referenced. It is a beautiful study - of memorizing scripture and applying it to your life.
I especially loved day 47 based on Mark 14
She’s done what she could.
God knows what we’ve done what we could, and He will defend us and love us no matter what.
And day 30 based on Philippians 1:6
We may be unfinished but we aren’t stuck. We aren’t abandoned. Day after day, year after year, God is still showing up. He’s still working and changing us. And He will finish His work.
Day 27 - Psalm 105:4
During seasons of feeling very weak (or sick)- when I simply shift my gaze from my circumstances to God’s face. To seek His face and find His strength
Lord, help me look to You for my strength today instead of trying to muster it up on my own. Empower me to remember that through the sick and healthy days alike, I am not alone, and You delight in strengthening me in all my weak places.
Day 91
What voices in your life are most critical toward you? Do you listen to the voice of God in His Word as often as you listen to them?
I especially loved day 47 based on Mark 14
She’s done what she could.
God knows what we’ve done what we could, and He will defend us and love us no matter what.
And day 30 based on Philippians 1:6
We may be unfinished but we aren’t stuck. We aren’t abandoned. Day after day, year after year, God is still showing up. He’s still working and changing us. And He will finish His work.
Day 27 - Psalm 105:4
During seasons of feeling very weak (or sick)- when I simply shift my gaze from my circumstances to God’s face. To seek His face and find His strength
Lord, help me look to You for my strength today instead of trying to muster it up on my own. Empower me to remember that through the sick and healthy days alike, I am not alone, and You delight in strengthening me in all my weak places.
Day 91
What voices in your life are most critical toward you? Do you listen to the voice of God in His Word as often as you listen to them?
September 9, 2022
read this as part of an online Bible study. I really like having examples of Scripture to speak into the darkness, and each of the 100 day devotionals opens with selected verses (along with a focus on 10 main ones for possible memorization).
February 22, 2023
Words are powerful, for good and for bad. I really loved this devotional and was encouraged by it each day. If you are a glass half empty kind of gal (guilty), this one is definitely for you!
September 7, 2022
I guess I just don't enjoy devotionals much anymore. These were like short IG captions, not deep enough most days for me to dig into.
I appreciated the emphasis on Bible memory, but there were no helpful tips on how to memorize, and the memory verses were only once every 10 days. There were a few other verses I might have wanted to memorize but was already almost overwhelmed with the ones that were there, especially starting with a long one.
After about 1/3 of the way in, I was dreading the rest of the 100 days. There were a few good nuggets interspersed throughout, but the majority was just fluff. Even the questions at the end of each devotional were basically the same every day.
Also, there were a few grammatical things that I would consider errors. At least they capitalized all the pronouns for Jesus and God, though.
Favorite quotes:
“The real miracle is not that He makes the painful or crazy situations different, [sic] but that He makes me different.” (p. 67)
“We may be unfinished, but we aren't stuck.” (p. 75)
“'When you say yes to something, don't halfway show up for it. Really show up for it. When you say no[sic], don't backtrack or reconsider a million times or make apologies. Be okay with the fact that you needed to say no. Whatever your answer, keep your word and mean what you say.'” (p. 140)
“I am so grateful for a Love that overcomes death, for a Light that overcomes dark, and for a Lord that does not want our sighs hidden from Him. Aren't you?” (p. 219)
(I received a copy for free as a volunteer for Proverbs31. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own, as was the decision to write this review.)
I appreciated the emphasis on Bible memory, but there were no helpful tips on how to memorize, and the memory verses were only once every 10 days. There were a few other verses I might have wanted to memorize but was already almost overwhelmed with the ones that were there, especially starting with a long one.
After about 1/3 of the way in, I was dreading the rest of the 100 days. There were a few good nuggets interspersed throughout, but the majority was just fluff. Even the questions at the end of each devotional were basically the same every day.
Also, there were a few grammatical things that I would consider errors. At least they capitalized all the pronouns for Jesus and God, though.
Favorite quotes:
“The real miracle is not that He makes the painful or crazy situations different, [sic] but that He makes me different.” (p. 67)
“We may be unfinished, but we aren't stuck.” (p. 75)
“'When you say yes to something, don't halfway show up for it. Really show up for it. When you say no[sic], don't backtrack or reconsider a million times or make apologies. Be okay with the fact that you needed to say no. Whatever your answer, keep your word and mean what you say.'” (p. 140)
“I am so grateful for a Love that overcomes death, for a Light that overcomes dark, and for a Lord that does not want our sighs hidden from Him. Aren't you?” (p. 219)
(I received a copy for free as a volunteer for Proverbs31. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own, as was the decision to write this review.)
March 26, 2024
Fighting Words is a 100 day devotional that’s perfect for anyone in any season, but if you’re in a season of hard, it feels especially poignant. I loved everything about this devotional and it will be one I purchase for myself as well as gift to others.
The format is approachable with a verse and a short devotion following and then ending with questions for reflection. There’s also a space for taking notes yourself and every so many pages, there’s beautiful scripture art. I loved learning more about Ellie’s music throughout- many of her songs were inspired by her personal fighting words: words of scripture she memorized with a friend to beat back the darkness when she felt surrounded. I love that this devotional doesn’t leave a person feeling alone and isolated; Ellie is open and vulnerable and uses scripture to exhort and encourage. What a gift.
I’d like to thank B&H Books and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The format is approachable with a verse and a short devotion following and then ending with questions for reflection. There’s also a space for taking notes yourself and every so many pages, there’s beautiful scripture art. I loved learning more about Ellie’s music throughout- many of her songs were inspired by her personal fighting words: words of scripture she memorized with a friend to beat back the darkness when she felt surrounded. I love that this devotional doesn’t leave a person feeling alone and isolated; Ellie is open and vulnerable and uses scripture to exhort and encourage. What a gift.
I’d like to thank B&H Books and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 2, 2025
This was really sweet. I used these for my quiet time in my post-partum season, but as I regained capacity I found these weren’t in depth enough to be a standalone devotional for each day. I eventually used them supplementally, and that was a helpful rhythm. Not every one was impactful for me, but that is kind of the way of things like this. I also felt like this got long - it could have been culled down to 50 or even 30, but I understand the intention behind collecting so many passages.
Really, this is just pulling verses from the Bible to meditate on during seasons of hardship, which ultimately can’t ever be bad.
Really, this is just pulling verses from the Bible to meditate on during seasons of hardship, which ultimately can’t ever be bad.
October 3, 2024
Also finished this a while ago but just updating this now! Same friend, Tali, recommended this to me and I got it for Christmas a few years ago. I love Ellie Holcomb (Saw her open for Lauren Daigle and almost saw her in concert another time, so sad) and loved these little devotionals. These devotions are perfect for if youre first getting started with personal times with the Lord. Theyre short and sweet and it really encourages you to journal and is thought provoking.
March 14, 2024
It’s been awhile since I’ve read a devotional book that I’ve enjoyed, but this one has been great. Each devotional has been a quick, encouraging read.
March 19, 2025
This devotional is filled with truth about the Lord! These were great reminders each and every day of how to fight against sin.
December 28, 2025
Great devotional!! Love Ellie!
November 14, 2022
Top 5 books I’ve ever read and best devotional I’ve done. I’m not a write in a book type girl, but this is now full of ink. Ellie knocked this out of the park.
October 25, 2024
This was a wonderful devotion book to read each morning. Each day had a 2-3 page devotion complete with corresponding “fighting words” which was scripture from God’s Word. There were 3-4 questions at the end of each day to answer and reflect. I loved the format. Not too long, very encouraging, and always pointed to God’s truth!
June 3, 2022
Ellie Holcomb's voice is lovely and this book, written with her perspective of "kicking back at the darkness", is really special.
100 days was a goodly amount of time to rephrase my thinking and uplift my heart.
Buy the cd, buy the book!
Thanks to my Sister for sharing this awesome talent!
100 days was a goodly amount of time to rephrase my thinking and uplift my heart.
Buy the cd, buy the book!
Thanks to my Sister for sharing this awesome talent!
September 7, 2022
A nice collection of Scripture with Ellie Holcomb's personal thoughts on the verses, a few questions for reflection, and a prayer for each day of the "100 Days".
September 4, 2022
Our work is to remember, and to keep kicking back at the shadows with the light.
In Fighting Words, Ellie Holcomb invites us to join her on a 100 day journey of "anchoring down in the promises of God." Every entry begins with sharing a Scripture. The Scripture may be a single verse and sometimes the Scripture is a longer passage. After sharing a Scripture, Holcomb shares her reflection on the passage. Her reflection may include: a personal story, a lesson, a lyric she's written, and/or a reminder. After, she will ask questions to allow readers to dive deeper into the Scripture and to make a personal connection. Entries conclude with a prayer.
I benefited in reading this book as part of a Proverbs31.org study course. They add guided leadership and other means of diving even deeper into the Word, and a way to share your own ideas and journey, with others.
In Fighting Words, Ellie Holcomb invites us to join her on a 100 day journey of "anchoring down in the promises of God." Every entry begins with sharing a Scripture. The Scripture may be a single verse and sometimes the Scripture is a longer passage. After sharing a Scripture, Holcomb shares her reflection on the passage. Her reflection may include: a personal story, a lesson, a lyric she's written, and/or a reminder. After, she will ask questions to allow readers to dive deeper into the Scripture and to make a personal connection. Entries conclude with a prayer.
I benefited in reading this book as part of a Proverbs31.org study course. They add guided leadership and other means of diving even deeper into the Word, and a way to share your own ideas and journey, with others.
March 29, 2023
Such a great read for everyday and great reflection and prayer. Read this with my best friend who lives across the country and was a great way to stay connected to each other and Jesus!
September 2, 2021
Ellie Holcomb is a singer/songwriter that I have listened to for a decade. She sings in a band with her husband, Drew (Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors), while also making music as a solo artist. I’ve loved the music she makes with Drew (check out their kitchen covers on YouTube), but I love her solo work even more. It is drenched in scripture and because of that, her music has been calming to me in times of difficulty. There was a time when I would listen to her album, Magnolia, over and over all night long. It brought hope, encouragement, and filled my heart and mind with scripture when I was struggling with anxiety..
Besides the depth of her lyrics and her honesty with her personal struggles, she is also a very joyful person. She exudes joy, beauty, light, confidence and plain old fun. I don’t think the girl ever stops smiling. She is completely relatable. You will no doubt be inspired by her. I have also enjoyed listening to her share her heart on several podcasts. Listening to Ellie’s interviews on podcasts would be a great introduction to the fun and inspiring human being that she is.
Recently, in addition to making music, Ellie has been authoring books. She has written two children’s books and now this devotional.
I love one of Ellie’s main ideas in this book: to use God’s word as a way to fight the lies and the enemy. She calls scripture her “fighting words” and has penned a song by the same name. Jesus “wandered in the wilderness and modeled what it looks like to shut down the attempts of the enemy for us. The weapon of choice? God’s word. ‘It is written’.” This is something practical we can speak out loud, followed by whatever verse fits your circumstance. If you are struggling with something or you are feeling spiritual attack, don’t just accept it, get angry at the devil, resist him and fight with scripture.
Each of the 100 days of devotions includes a scripture, a prayer and some questions for additional contemplation or journaling. The questions are excellent.
Regardless of whether our prayers are answered quickly, or if we must continue asking and praying for our breakthrough, “The real miracle is not that he makes the painful or crazy situations different, but that He makes me different.”
The truth is, God is good, but we can simultaneously feel abandoned by God, while knowing He is good. It’s ok to coach your soul to increased faith and trust by recounting His goodness when you aren’t feeling it. It is normal to live in the tension and it’s easy to forget who God is when we focus on our circumstances. Ellie speaks to this, “I love how David is always trying to boss his soul around, reminding himself of what is true, and yet, in the same breath, he isn’t scared to be honest with God, and to direct his hurt, his fear, his doubt, and his needs to the One who’s love endures forever. In other words, David has shown me that prayer makes room for both remembrance (declaring what is true) and honesty (declaring how we are actually feeling about that truth in the moment).”
I will end with one of the scriptures Ellie used in her book. I find it very comforting in light of the increasing trauma people everywhere are facing. Matt. 28:20 “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
I received an ARC copy from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Besides the depth of her lyrics and her honesty with her personal struggles, she is also a very joyful person. She exudes joy, beauty, light, confidence and plain old fun. I don’t think the girl ever stops smiling. She is completely relatable. You will no doubt be inspired by her. I have also enjoyed listening to her share her heart on several podcasts. Listening to Ellie’s interviews on podcasts would be a great introduction to the fun and inspiring human being that she is.
Recently, in addition to making music, Ellie has been authoring books. She has written two children’s books and now this devotional.
I love one of Ellie’s main ideas in this book: to use God’s word as a way to fight the lies and the enemy. She calls scripture her “fighting words” and has penned a song by the same name. Jesus “wandered in the wilderness and modeled what it looks like to shut down the attempts of the enemy for us. The weapon of choice? God’s word. ‘It is written’.” This is something practical we can speak out loud, followed by whatever verse fits your circumstance. If you are struggling with something or you are feeling spiritual attack, don’t just accept it, get angry at the devil, resist him and fight with scripture.
Each of the 100 days of devotions includes a scripture, a prayer and some questions for additional contemplation or journaling. The questions are excellent.
Regardless of whether our prayers are answered quickly, or if we must continue asking and praying for our breakthrough, “The real miracle is not that he makes the painful or crazy situations different, but that He makes me different.”
The truth is, God is good, but we can simultaneously feel abandoned by God, while knowing He is good. It’s ok to coach your soul to increased faith and trust by recounting His goodness when you aren’t feeling it. It is normal to live in the tension and it’s easy to forget who God is when we focus on our circumstances. Ellie speaks to this, “I love how David is always trying to boss his soul around, reminding himself of what is true, and yet, in the same breath, he isn’t scared to be honest with God, and to direct his hurt, his fear, his doubt, and his needs to the One who’s love endures forever. In other words, David has shown me that prayer makes room for both remembrance (declaring what is true) and honesty (declaring how we are actually feeling about that truth in the moment).”
I will end with one of the scriptures Ellie used in her book. I find it very comforting in light of the increasing trauma people everywhere are facing. Matt. 28:20 “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
I received an ARC copy from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 22, 2021
I almost never read women's devotionals, because I expect them to be fluffy, vaguely uplifting books that I don't relate to. However, because Ellie Holcomb's music has been such a blessing to me over the past four years, I was interested to read a devotional from her perspective. This isn't a conventional women's devotional at all, because it focuses deeply on specific Scripture passages that Holcomb recommends memorizing, and on how the Bible can speak truth into our doubts, struggles, and fears. Although Holcomb writes in a conversational style and shares examples from her life, she ties these reflections directly into the Bible verse or passage for the day, rather than just sharing a story. She also shares life illustrations from a variety of different stages of her life, rather than just talking about marriage or parenting.
Fighting Words Devotional: 100 Days of Speaking Truth into the Darkness is a great resource for women and teenage girls, regardless of their specific background or life experiences. Because Holcomb delves into Scripture rather than just sharing life lessons through the lens of her experience, this book is full of insight for readers regardless whether they identify with Holcomb's specific illustrations, and each daily reading concludes with open-ended reflection questions and a written prayer. Also, even though Holcomb specifically addresses women, much of the content applies regardless of gender, and a man who wants guidance with Scripture memory or who is a fan of Holcomb's music shouldn't let the female-focused marketing deter him.
Also, speaking of Holcomb's music, she explains at the beginning of the book that if a reader isn't familiar with her as a recording artist, she doesn't want them to feel like she is trying to sell them her albums. She explains that when she quotes from her own song lyrics, she is essentially just sharing journal-like reflections, not trying to convince anyone that they need her songs in their life. However, if someone is interested in this because they appreciate her music, the book lives up to the kind of personal, gospel-focused, and encouraging content they would expect, and I enjoyed recognizing refrains I have sung over and over again tied in with the Scriptures that inspired them. I really appreciated this, and even though I read through it quickly for review purposes, I plan to reread the devotional over the intended one hundred days someday in the future.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Fighting Words Devotional: 100 Days of Speaking Truth into the Darkness is a great resource for women and teenage girls, regardless of their specific background or life experiences. Because Holcomb delves into Scripture rather than just sharing life lessons through the lens of her experience, this book is full of insight for readers regardless whether they identify with Holcomb's specific illustrations, and each daily reading concludes with open-ended reflection questions and a written prayer. Also, even though Holcomb specifically addresses women, much of the content applies regardless of gender, and a man who wants guidance with Scripture memory or who is a fan of Holcomb's music shouldn't let the female-focused marketing deter him.
Also, speaking of Holcomb's music, she explains at the beginning of the book that if a reader isn't familiar with her as a recording artist, she doesn't want them to feel like she is trying to sell them her albums. She explains that when she quotes from her own song lyrics, she is essentially just sharing journal-like reflections, not trying to convince anyone that they need her songs in their life. However, if someone is interested in this because they appreciate her music, the book lives up to the kind of personal, gospel-focused, and encouraging content they would expect, and I enjoyed recognizing refrains I have sung over and over again tied in with the Scriptures that inspired them. I really appreciated this, and even though I read through it quickly for review purposes, I plan to reread the devotional over the intended one hundred days someday in the future.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2022
Did not finish. I expected it to be like a typical devotional - short and light, and it was…almost too short and light. It felt lazy. Women deserve more than just seconds of vague encouragement. These are unprecedented times we are living in and we need the Truth. I’ve been seeing it advertised for busy moms who may not have time to dig into theology…if all you have is half a minute a day to devote to the Lord, you’d be much better off spending 30 seconds in the Word than 3 days in this book. When Ellie mentioned a quote from a popular false teacher, I decided I had read enough.
I received this book from NetGalley and opinions are my own.
I received this book from NetGalley and opinions are my own.
October 21, 2023
This devotional book is perfect as far as I'm concerned. It's perfect for someone on the go as well as someone at home. You can take as little or as much time as you want/need. It's relatable and I love that Ellie includes her songs on a lot of days. I think that really added to it. I've gone through this twice with my group of Bible study ladies, and I know I'll go through it again probably by myself this time. It's one that can be gone through many times. I highly recommend this devotional. Especially for such a time as this, we need all the help we can get in speaking the truth against the darkness.
February 23, 2024
I have always been a huge Ellie Holcomb fan from the very beginning. When I learned she was writing a devotional, I was thrilled!
This devotional includes a Bible verse, a short devotional segment related to that, reflection questions, and lastly a prayer to close out each daily devotional entry. I really enjoyed this devotional, and the book itself is absolutely beautiful! The only thing was that I wished for a bit more depth in many of the entries. However, I would definitely still recommend this one and would absolutely purchase a copy for myself or a friend.
Thank you @netgalley for my gifted e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
This devotional includes a Bible verse, a short devotional segment related to that, reflection questions, and lastly a prayer to close out each daily devotional entry. I really enjoyed this devotional, and the book itself is absolutely beautiful! The only thing was that I wished for a bit more depth in many of the entries. However, I would definitely still recommend this one and would absolutely purchase a copy for myself or a friend.
Thank you @netgalley for my gifted e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2024
I bought this devotional because it seemed like the author might have something good to say via her devotional. The book slip did a good job giving a clear idea of what was inside the book.
Some quotes from the book...
Really liked this quote from Day 6 as I have been trying to reroute my brain via this same kind of thinking lately. If I am afraid of something or worried, going to that worst-case scenario in my mind and telling myself, "Okay, this could happen. But if it does, and if God is okay with it happening, then you will be okay. It will be okay because He will help you through it. You can survive hard things. And a lot of the hard things you've been through in your life have prepared you to help others in the future or empathize with them, or grow into who God called you to be."
So many of the things I hated going through formed me into what I needed to be in the future or grew something in me that was needed to help someone else. Sometimes I feel like I could weep with gratitude at the fact that God has used my pain to prepare me, to help others, to know how to pray powerfully now for those going through the same things. I don't wish that I hadn't gone through the pain anymore, for I see God's fingerprints all over the ways He led me through those things. Especially now.
Really liked Day 7, Day 9 discussing Isaiah 53.
Day 33 discussing the meditations of our hearts and the thoughts of our minds was equally encouraging and convicting!
Day 36 was really good. The prompts at the end of this day were very thought-provoking and challenged me. Funny enough, I've been on a Romans kick and this chapter was from Romans. I'd actually read the same passage in the my Bible earlier that the author included in this chapter.
Day 38 I really loved. One of those days where it got me thinking a lot!
Day 55 was really good. Day 96 came at the right time for me! Encouragement to let God lead and guide us when we don't know which way to go.
It's taken me almost two years to finish this book, but I am usually not very consisent when reading devotionals. I got it just to check it out, not really knowing if it would be for me or not. But it came at the right time for me. Every day's devotional wasn't for me, but there were so many times where I would end up reading the day's devotional and it ended up being just what I needed to hear. It carried me through some dark days. And it inspired me on the better ones.
I liked the concept of holding onto truth as an anchor when all is stormy around us. This was a big theme throughout the book. What does God say about things? What promises has He made? What can I count on about the character of God, despite the dust storms of life and the hurricanes we face? Ellie encourages readers to memorize key verses, but it isn't force-fed. I've noticed the things that I have memorized often grab my attention when my mind and heart are in a whirlwind, and they bring me back down to earth. Remind me of the things that are sure. The One who is sure.
I think this book would be a great gift for a friend who is going through a rough time. I think the expanded version came out not long ago too, and it looks beautiful as well!
4 stars.
Some quotes from the book...
"Once, when she was battling through a lot of fear, her counselor and pastor asked her this: 'Debbie, what is the worst thing that could happen in this situation?' She explained in detail what that would be, and then he said this: 'Okay, if that happens—that worst-case scenario that you just laid out—would God still love you?'
She replied, 'Yes.'
And then he asked, 'Would you still love God?'
She answered again, 'Yes.'
Then I can tell you for certain that you are going to be okay because if you have the love of God to surround and support you, you can face anything.'
That particular promise from God's Word helps me so much in the wildness of real life because, like that kind pastor pointed out to my mom, it doesn't guarantee that we won't be afraid or that scary circumstances will never come our way. It speaks a stronger truth than any fear that we might face. It reminds us that, even in the day places where fear consumes us, nothing changes the fact that God has redeemed us, that He knows us, and that no matter how the story ends, we belong to Him. We are safe in Him now and forever, for His love surrounds us and supports us. Even in the worst of scenarios.
Especially there." (DAY 6)
Really liked this quote from Day 6 as I have been trying to reroute my brain via this same kind of thinking lately. If I am afraid of something or worried, going to that worst-case scenario in my mind and telling myself, "Okay, this could happen. But if it does, and if God is okay with it happening, then you will be okay. It will be okay because He will help you through it. You can survive hard things. And a lot of the hard things you've been through in your life have prepared you to help others in the future or empathize with them, or grow into who God called you to be."
So many of the things I hated going through formed me into what I needed to be in the future or grew something in me that was needed to help someone else. Sometimes I feel like I could weep with gratitude at the fact that God has used my pain to prepare me, to help others, to know how to pray powerfully now for those going through the same things. I don't wish that I hadn't gone through the pain anymore, for I see God's fingerprints all over the ways He led me through those things. Especially now.
Really liked Day 7, Day 9 discussing Isaiah 53.
Day 33 discussing the meditations of our hearts and the thoughts of our minds was equally encouraging and convicting!
Day 36 was really good. The prompts at the end of this day were very thought-provoking and challenged me. Funny enough, I've been on a Romans kick and this chapter was from Romans. I'd actually read the same passage in the my Bible earlier that the author included in this chapter.
Day 38 I really loved. One of those days where it got me thinking a lot!
Day 55 was really good. Day 96 came at the right time for me! Encouragement to let God lead and guide us when we don't know which way to go.
It's taken me almost two years to finish this book, but I am usually not very consisent when reading devotionals. I got it just to check it out, not really knowing if it would be for me or not. But it came at the right time for me. Every day's devotional wasn't for me, but there were so many times where I would end up reading the day's devotional and it ended up being just what I needed to hear. It carried me through some dark days. And it inspired me on the better ones.
I liked the concept of holding onto truth as an anchor when all is stormy around us. This was a big theme throughout the book. What does God say about things? What promises has He made? What can I count on about the character of God, despite the dust storms of life and the hurricanes we face? Ellie encourages readers to memorize key verses, but it isn't force-fed. I've noticed the things that I have memorized often grab my attention when my mind and heart are in a whirlwind, and they bring me back down to earth. Remind me of the things that are sure. The One who is sure.
I think this book would be a great gift for a friend who is going through a rough time. I think the expanded version came out not long ago too, and it looks beautiful as well!
4 stars.
August 11, 2021
First sentence (from the introduction): There are some stories that change your life. This is one of them for me.
In Fighting Words, Ellie Holcomb invites fellow sojourners to join her on a 100 day journey of "anchoring down in the promises of God." Each entry begins with sharing a Scripture. Sometimes the Scripture is a single verse (packed with treasure); sometimes the Scripture is a longer passage of Scripture (packed with treasure). After starting with Scripture, Holcomb shares her reflection on the passage. That reflection may include: a personal story, a lyric she's written, a lesson or reminder. Entries include a couple questions designed to probe readers to make a connection of their own with the Scripture in question. Entries conclude with a prayer.
Day one's Scripture is Philippians 4:4-7. The probing questions include, "What circumstances in your life make it difficult to "rejoice always"?" and "Have you ever experienced a peace or nearness from God that was unexplainable to your friends and family? What was that like?"
She chooses promises from the Old Testament and the New Testament. A good blend of both in my opinion.
Devotionals aren't usually anything I would choose to read on my own. I do try to review devotionals for the blog (now and then) so that I can share good ones when I find them.
I do like that she shares the Scripture, the actual Scripture. As opposed to sharing just the Scripture reference. Readers may still choose to be a cheater pants and skim the Scripture, but one can't use the excuse "I was too busy to look it up" or "my Bible wasn't handy." It's right on the page, and you've got the opportunity to read it yourself.
The verses shared are good ones. These are verses that I'm familiar with and that I already have a connection with (most of the time at least).
Some entries give readers behind the scenes glimpses into her creative song writing process. Being a fan (for the most part) of her albums (I, of course, have my favorites), I liked seeing the stories behind some of my favorite songs.
I do think the book does its best to point the way to Jesus and to keep pointing the way to Jesus. If it ever fails, I don't think it's because the intent changed. I think as readers we're just human and easily distracted and full of self.
In Fighting Words, Ellie Holcomb invites fellow sojourners to join her on a 100 day journey of "anchoring down in the promises of God." Each entry begins with sharing a Scripture. Sometimes the Scripture is a single verse (packed with treasure); sometimes the Scripture is a longer passage of Scripture (packed with treasure). After starting with Scripture, Holcomb shares her reflection on the passage. That reflection may include: a personal story, a lyric she's written, a lesson or reminder. Entries include a couple questions designed to probe readers to make a connection of their own with the Scripture in question. Entries conclude with a prayer.
Day one's Scripture is Philippians 4:4-7. The probing questions include, "What circumstances in your life make it difficult to "rejoice always"?" and "Have you ever experienced a peace or nearness from God that was unexplainable to your friends and family? What was that like?"
She chooses promises from the Old Testament and the New Testament. A good blend of both in my opinion.
Devotionals aren't usually anything I would choose to read on my own. I do try to review devotionals for the blog (now and then) so that I can share good ones when I find them.
I do like that she shares the Scripture, the actual Scripture. As opposed to sharing just the Scripture reference. Readers may still choose to be a cheater pants and skim the Scripture, but one can't use the excuse "I was too busy to look it up" or "my Bible wasn't handy." It's right on the page, and you've got the opportunity to read it yourself.
The verses shared are good ones. These are verses that I'm familiar with and that I already have a connection with (most of the time at least).
Some entries give readers behind the scenes glimpses into her creative song writing process. Being a fan (for the most part) of her albums (I, of course, have my favorites), I liked seeing the stories behind some of my favorite songs.
I do think the book does its best to point the way to Jesus and to keep pointing the way to Jesus. If it ever fails, I don't think it's because the intent changed. I think as readers we're just human and easily distracted and full of self.
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