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A Moment to Breathe: 365 Devotions that Meet You in Your Everyday Mess

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When the rush of regular life leaves you breathless by day’s end, this collection of everyday stories becomes the place where you can come as you are, and find yourself among friends. Friends who have been there. Friends who’ll lean in close and say, “Me too!” Through our stories the bonds of friendship deepen as we listen to each other, laugh with each other, and learn from each other. Because we’re better when we’re living this one beautiful life together.
 With stories from 80 writers, these pages become the very place your soul can exhale, where you can: · Connect with the hearts of women through stories that echo your own.· Find beauty in the ordinary and sometimes messy moments of your everyday life.· See your own stories as an offering of hope to those around you.· Treasure the unseen ways God moves through even your most regular days. With 365 readings, each day begins with a passage of Scripture, tells a story of everyday faith, and encourages you to take a moment to breathe with a simple but fun way to complete your day. So kick off your shoes and join us for a relaxing but special time, where friends come together and share the real stuff of everyday faith.

392 pages, Hardcover

Published October 3, 2017

74 people are currently reading
196 people want to read

About the author

Denise J. Hughes

10 books40 followers
Denise J. Hughes is the author of the Word Writers series and a passionate student of the Bible. A popular conference speaker, she is also an adjunct professor at Azusa Pacific University and the editorial coordinator for (in)courage. She lives with her husband and three kids in the Los Angeles area. Follow her at www.wordwriters.us and on Twitter @DeniseJHughes.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah Esmae Wolfe.
229 reviews107 followers
January 7, 2019
This year-long daily devotional has a very narrow target demographic: married Christian women who are mothers to small children. And if this applies to you, I think you would really enjoy this. However, I am neither married or have children, so I didn't relate to many of the devotionals. There were some that were pretty good but most were just okay and/or unrelatable.
Profile Image for Brandi (Rambles of a SAHM).
817 reviews34 followers
December 7, 2017
I've said before that I'm not really a short daily devotional fan. I tend to prefer a more in-depth morning Bible study. But I'm always encouraged by the (in)courage community so I just couldn't resist taking a look at this new book.

The set up is simple. There's a short Scripture reading followed by an applicable story from one of the many (in)courage writers. Then it ends with a section called A Moment to Breathe.

I've read through most of the readings and have enjoyed them. The women that contributed to this project shared from their hearts and their normal everyday lives. The stories could have been written by any one of us and that's part of the beauty of it. We all have more in common than not and it was nice to read about fellow sojourners and how they were able to face what was in front of them with grace while following Christ.

My favorite part was the ending section. Each day gave simple ways to put into action the core concept of the reading. When I say simple I mean simple. You don't need to run to the store for ingredients or supplies you just need to implement in small ways what you've just read.

This was an encouraging book for me personally but I also think it would be a nice gift for a young mother or a sweet woman that's going through a hard patch. The book itself is beautiful. It's a hardback but has a cloth-like cover and a ribbon to mark your place. I think I'm going to have to pick up a couple more to give as gifts.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
Profile Image for Sandy.
140 reviews
May 14, 2019
I have thoroughly enjoyed this daily devotional. Clearly since it took me over a year to finish, I missed a few days here and there. These devotions began with a verse or two of Scripture followed by a short devotion and concluded with a brief application. It was the perfect way to start my day by focusing on God. I often found just what I needed to hear in the pages of this book and have shared with several friends. Makes a great gift!
Profile Image for Kristin Vanderlip.
Author 6 books18 followers
October 3, 2017
This devotional from (in)courage is perfect for women of all stages of life, all ages, all races, for women who want to meet with God and need a moment to breathe. But specifically, I think it's perfect for the women who feel like they don't even have a moment to breath, who are busy and tired and overwhelmed, who work from home, who work outside the home, who stay at home nursing babies and losing sleep, who love Jesus and are looking to do life with Him and see that they NEED a moment to breathe.

The style of this devotional is my favorite. It's not written from one respective or in one voice. It's a community of women committed to following and living for Jesus sharing personal stories that are short but powerful. The contributors include women like Holley Gerth, Emily P. Freeman, Lisa Jo Baker, Kristen Strong, Alia Joy, Kristen Welch, Jennifer Dukes Lee, Renee Swope, and so many more familiar names in Christian women's ministry and books these days.

I am sure that each devotional, each story, will resonate with you, challenge you, captivate you, and stir your heart as they did mine... and most of all, leave you with a moment to breathe deep and rest in God's love... and encourage you to live out His love in your life.

Each devotion offers a scripture before each personal anecdote and ends with my favorite thing, "a moment to breathe." These moments are creative and unexpected and unique. Some are prayers, some are reflection questions, some are practical challenges and ideas. They are by far my favorite part.

Ultimately, as you read, you will be drawn to God's truth, find connections to His truth through the sharing of honest stories from real women that might be unexpected or surprising or tug at your heart and you will be able to connect with them and say "me too" to. You will feel lighter and encouraged and focused more on Jesus.

Some favorite excerpts/ quotes:

"We may come from different places, but when we come together, we find one thing very true: Our heartaches may be different, but our hearts are the same."

"I once thought of courage as a single color - always fire engine red - blazing and bold. But I am finding it is more like a kaleidoscope. It changes with the seasons of our lives, with who we are becoming, with what God is asking our hearts to do. Just when we think we know it, the form alters and we find ourselves seeing anew. And through all the shifting this remains...in every color, every life...courage is breathtaking." -Holley Gerth

"A Moment to Breathe... What does rest look like to you? What's restful for one person might look differently for another. Write down seven different ways you can rest. Yep. Seven. Then try one today."

"A Moment to Breathe... Look outside. Or look up. Notice a bird nearby, sitting on a branch or wire, and find a seat yourself. Take a deep breath and exhale, thanking God for the gift of rest."

To the (in)courage community and women who poured their stories into these pages, thank you for help us see Jesus in our lives as we see evidence of Him in yours. Whoever thought to compile this style devotional - genius! :)
Profile Image for Beauty in the Binding.
626 reviews55 followers
January 27, 2018
A Moment to Breathe: 365 Devotions That Meet You in Your Everyday Mess by the (in)courage community aims to nurture, strengthen, and encourage women. I almost cried when I started reading the introduction because it just felt so welcoming. There are no assumptions or pretense that my life is at a certain level of cohesiveness. This book doesn't expect me to have it all together. It isn't trying to tell me how to do it just right so I can be the perfect wife, perfect mom, perfect girl, perfect Christian. This devotional about acceptance, starting where you are, and focusing on what matters most in your own life.

I have really, really liked A Moment to Breathe so far. Since the publisher probably doesn't want me waiting a full year to write my review, I'm going to admit that I haven't finished reading the book. Therefore, here is what I have found so far. The devotions are written by eighty different writers and cover many topics. The devotions invite you to come as you are, to think about what the writer is saying, and give a small call to action that is sometimes as simple as smiling at stranger and saying hello. The devotions cover a range of topics. I liked that the writers are all about meeting you where you are and not wearing a mask of perfection, but they also don't encourage wallowing in mediocrity and feeling constantly sorry for yourself. The devotions take only a few minutes to read, though reflecting on the topic or call to action adds a little time. I recommend A Moment to Breathe: 365 Devotions That Meet You in Your Everyday Mess by the (in)courage community to any woman looking for a daily devotional book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Profile Image for Jennie.
351 reviews32 followers
July 20, 2018
What's not to like about this book ~ A Moment To Breathe ~ 365 Devotions That Meet You In Your Everyday Mess, the color, the feel, the title, because there are many times a day, where I say, oh I just need a moment! This little book is packed full of encouragement, beautiful truths, real messes, stories from relatable women, whom many I know through their books or blogging!


I have been reading one a day during my Bible study time. It only takes a few minutes to read one of the devotionals, but the readings are deep and will carry on through the day. I like that each day provides a verse to meditate on and "A Moment To Breathe" application for the day to live out sharing hope and encouragement. Here are a couple snippets from the book that have spoken to me:




Day 11~ verse Isaiah 26:3

Becky Keife "Her rest may be seldom. Hidden. But she is not unseen. And I claim the truth again: It is worth putting aside my desire to be productive in order to take up the pen of paying attention."


Day 24 ~ verse Psalm 91:1

Kris Camealy "We are called to tell of HIS goodness and grace to all who will listen. But also we are called to the quiet, tucked-away place alone with HIM, where the uncomfortable-but-necessary healing and growing can happen, away from the chatter and peering eyes of the waiting room."

A Moment To Breathe ~ Step into that secret place with God, to a season of hushed fellowship with God. Later, you can tell others of the goodness HE has done for you there.
2 reviews
March 19, 2018
I recently ordered a devotional, from the BH publishing group. This book was a great read. It is hard to describe this book, but below I put a summary of what was on the back of the book. 

When the rush of regular life leaves you breathless by day’s end, this collection of everyday stories becomes the place where you can come as you are, and find yourself among friends. Friends who have been there. Friends who’ll lean in close and say, “Me too!” Through our stories, the bonds of friendship deepen as we listen to each other, laugh with each other, and learn from each other. Because we’re better when we’re living this one beautiful life together.
With stories from 80 writers, these pages become the very place your soul can exhale, where you can: · Connect with the hearts of women through stories that echo your own.· Find beauty in the ordinary and sometimes messy moments of your everyday life.· See your own stories as an offering of hope to those around you.· Treasure the unseen ways God moves through even your most regular days. With 365 readings, each day begins with a passage of Scripture, tells a story of everyday faith, and encourages you to take a moment to breathe with a simple but fun way to complete your day. So kick off your shoes and join us for a relaxing but special time, where friends come together and share the real stuff of everyday faith.

I enjoyed being able to read these stories of different people, some were very relatable.
Profile Image for Julie McComas.
97 reviews13 followers
March 23, 2018
This book was a treasure trove for me. While I fangirled over many of the contributors like my friend, Robin Dance, Suzanne Eller, Lisa-Jo Baker, Jennifer Dukes Lee, Renee Swope, Holley Gerth, Annie F. Downs, and Emily P. Freeman just to name a few, I also found a bunch of the other contributors to be just as swoon worthy. They speak my language! They take everyday life and speak (or write) Jesus into those spaces that many of us seem to overlook.

One of the coolest things in this book is "A Moment to Breathe" at the bottom of each day's devotional. There are many days that I don't know what to do, or I just need a little spiritual shove. These are perfect for those days when I am at a standstill. There are little ideas for you to either act on (pray for someone that seems to have it all, or just be present with someone). The actions and ideas are simple, don't take much time, and will surely bless you and someone else, too.

Fair warning:

This is a 365-day devotional, but it you are anything like me, you will catch yourself reading more than one day's devo at a time. It's a nice feeling that someone out there has the same situation or feelings that you do. It is nice to know that we are not the only ones that need A Moment to Breathe.

Thank you to B&H Publishing for providing me a copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Jordan.
17 reviews7 followers
October 3, 2017
A Moment to Breathe is a great devotional! Its small size makes it easy to carry with me to read when I travel for a quick moment to-- well, breathe! I like that it's undated so I don't feel guilty if I miss a day, and can read at my own pace. So far I've really enjoyed a lot of the devotionals in the book-- all well-written and sweet. There were a few that didn't feel relatable to me, but that's always going to happen. I liked the little "moment to breathe" section at the bottom of each devotion-- I wished they had all been more action-y and some way to apply a lesson or thought from the story.

My only 'complaint' (not really a complaint, just a thought) is that I wish the devotions centered around the theme of the book-- I was hoping for the stories to be more streamlined and less random. Or perhaps have them organized by section would have been a little bit better? I was hoping this would be a devotional more focused on rest/Sabbath/peace, not just a conglomerate of devotions like other devotionals.

This is a great devotional-- well-written, beautifully designed, easy to pick up and read for a few minutes of time with Jesus. Would 100% share this as a gift.

I received a copy of this devotional in exchange for an honest review.
51 reviews7 followers
October 5, 2017
Just Breathe

"A Moment to Breathe: 365 Devotions that meet you in your everyday mess" is a true blessing. I am a very busy mom of 4 who goes non-stop from sun up to sun down and rarely ever have time to slow down to rest and just breathe. These devotions have been a breath of fresh air and filled with encouragement for my weary soul. They are short so that you can really just take a moment out of your busy day to "breathe" and reset your day and mind. The devotions are written by 80 (in)courage authors and each shares their own stories, struggles and give suggestions on ways to try to create space in your day to focus on different areas we tend to get too busy to take time to reflect on. The devotions are written in such a way that you feel like you are listening to a dear friend share her story and struggles with you intimately and in a quiet space. It is such a relief to know that there are other people out there that experience the same struggles as you--other women to say "me too" so you don't feel as if you are alone.

This book would make a beautiful gift for any woman.

I was blessed to receive an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review.
12 reviews1 follower
December 16, 2017
The title alone is enough to sell the book.

What person, specifically woman, doesn't crave a moment to breathe–an overwhelming desire for someone, anyone, to meet them in their everyday mess?

I'll raise my hand. Me, me, me! Yes, please, and thank you.

Delightfully, in this particular case, the content delivers what the title promises.

Yay!

From the (in)courage community, eighty authors come together and offer a glimpse into their stories. Stories that are very similar to yours and mine. The players and circumstances might vary, but the heart behind the sentences—spot on.

Each day begins with a Scripture, followed by a story of transparent faith in the midst of the real, and ends with A Moment to Breathe—a call to action or thought.

382 pages, with a section for author bios and scripture references, make this book the complete package. Perfect for gift-giving during the 2017 holiday season.

You will know doubt find the content relatable. Tears of joy and sorrow are sure to accompany the reading. I would encourage (pun intended) to journal along with the devotionals.
Profile Image for Leslie McKee.
Author 8 books72 followers
November 14, 2017
3.5 stars

I love devotionals, so I was excited to have the chance to review this one. The topic immediately caught my eye: 365 devotions that meet you in your everyday mess.

This book would be a wonderful addition to daily Bible study for women of all ages who looking for a moment to breathe. (In fact, the devotions provide you with that moment to just take a breath and listen to what God has to say.) The devotions are written by numerous women. The format is: title, Bible verse, message, and prayer/reflection question. Many of the women are familiar names in the Christian industry, such as Renee Swope, Emily P. Freeman, Kristen Strong, Ann Swindell, and Lisa-Jo Baker. The personal stories will likely be relatable for many women.

You can read the full review on my blog: https://lmckeeediting.blogspot.com/20...

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the B&H/Lifeway blogger program. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Profile Image for Lavonne Beale.
6 reviews
October 5, 2017
This is not only a very pretty book, it also has beautiful, heartfelt devotionals. This is wonderful. It is a devotional for women, by women. It is women sharing real life in our good times and bad times, in our lovely times and in our messes, and everything in between.

I love how each page starts with a scripture, followed by a story from the author’s perspective, and ends with “A Moment to Breathe”. They are honest, truthful, sometimes raw. But always go straight to the heart of women.

The book is put out by the (in)courage community, a division of Dayspring. I first found (in)courage when I was recovering from cancer surgery and treatment six years ago. The website came into my life at just the right time. I was alone a lot and the words that I would read were such an encouragement to me. The book is a wonderful collection of many of the words written on the (in)courage site.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
8 reviews1 follower
October 6, 2017
GET THIS BOOK!!
Can I say that from the moment that I picked up this devotional book it truly spoke to me. We all are so busy and sometimes have to squeeze in time for ourselves. This is the perfect devotional book for those times. It will touch your heart and get you thinking! It always seems to relate to something I am going through or have been through. I highly suggest this book to give your friends or family members. The holidays are coming up and we all look for something special to give our loved ones. This...it it!
I feel so honored and special to have been given this book by the publisher to review. It's made me think about everyday life and how to share God's love and perspective with others who may be going through tough times. It's one of those books that you actually can't put down when you start reading...and it's a devotional book! I couldn't stop reading with just one day!!
Get this one!! FIVE STARS!!!
Profile Image for Julie D..
585 reviews20 followers
December 5, 2017
This is such a wonderful devotional. It's visually beautiful with a lovely cloth cover and blue lettering inside. I love beautiful things and this definitely is beautiful.

Better than the pretty look of the book are the amazing devotions for each day that will really bless your heart and draw you closer to the Lord. These are written by several different women so there is a devotion that will touch you right where you are.

There are 365 devotions in this book and they start with a Scripture and then a wonderful heart-felt devotion. They are short but they will so impact your life. My favorite part is at the end of the devotion. There is a question for you to ponder or an idea for you to implement into your life that day.

I really like this devotional and I think you will, too. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

*This book was provided to me for my honest review by B&H/Lifeway Blogger Program
Profile Image for Sarah.
Author 12 books152 followers
December 17, 2017
So many talented women share their real-life stories with humility and grace in this wonderful book.

If you regularly read the (in)courage blog, you’ll recognize the style. Thoughtful, sensitive, and quietly contemplative. I’m so excited that I will be featured there on Dec. 23, and I hope you’ll put it on your calendar to read my post!

This book would make a great gift for a blogger and aspiring author, a mom in the trenches, an empty nester, or a woman who simply needs a break from the fast-paced life. An imperfect woman seeking God’s grace and rest would treasure this gift. It comes with an index of all the writers, links to their blogs, and a handy scriptural reference too.

Netgalley generously provided me a free online copy, and I also purchased a print copy for myself! One of my favorite reads from 2017.
Profile Image for Michelle .
1,104 reviews35 followers
November 8, 2017
`A Moment To Breathe` is a Devotional written by the women of the (in)courage community to women of all ages. Some of the featured women are Holley Gerth, Lisa-Jo Baker and Annie F. Downs.

There are 365 devotions in this book. Each day's devotion includes scripture, a note of faith for that day, and an easy activity. At the back of the book is a Scripture index so you can find a devotion by verse. I like the subdued cover and the book's ribbon marker that matches it. The scripture verses come from the Holman Christian Standard Bible.

This book would make a great gift for yourself or someone else. Devotions are a great way to begin your day and meditate on the Lord. I enjoy the simple activities such as smile at the cashier, say `Hi` and learn their name, let them know they matter.

Disclaimer: "I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own."
Profile Image for Lynn.
559 reviews3 followers
October 23, 2017
This isn't a book about being perfect woman or about being a perfect Christian. It's a book about real women with real struggles finding God in their everyday mess. It's real, it's honest and it connects with you on a level and confirms that God is there for you every step of the way. It's a book about healing and finding joy in the little things. Each day starts with a Scripture and then a story from one of the amazing writers followed by "A Moment To Breathe" with a little something for you to ponder on. This is about women connecting with women. Keeping it real and creating a community of women who can find the good and God in every situation. I was graciously gifted this book from NetGalley for a honest review.
Profile Image for Mandi.
105 reviews6 followers
October 18, 2017
A lovely book full of really nicely thought out and written daily devotionals.
I was thrilled as I read through it to keep running across some of my favorite authors. The even nicer surprise was how much I enjoyed the devotions written by people I wasn't familiar with.
Each day is quick to read and to the point. They are not light and fluffy reads though. I really enjoyed using them as journaling prompts each morning. The day is laid out where you get a scripture to focus on, a devotional and then a Moment to Breath which gives you a idea of something to do related to the devotion. I have been using those moments to breath as a prompt for my journaling.
Profile Image for Jessie Young.
416 reviews12 followers
November 11, 2017
Lovely collection of short devotional written by a variety of people. Each day has a scripture to focus on followed by a personal story from the author and concludes with “a moment to breathe” focus element to connect your personal journey with the verse and the story given. There is also a scripture index which is very helpful. The stories are personable and relatable, concise but full of pertinent details. Very nice collection. I️ enjoyed this book. While it won’t be my go to devotional because I️ think it is quite light in terms of substance it is nice to focus your mind.
I️ received a digital copy from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Deborah Flora.
72 reviews3 followers
November 21, 2017
The subtitle says "365 Devotions That Meet You in Your Everyday Mess."

Combine that with the title, A Moment to Breathe, and release a huge sigh of relaxation. Don't you think?! :)

This book hails from the (In)Courage community and is filled with relatable stories from the pens and hearts of a lot of lovely ladies! Here’s a few names ~ Denise J. Hughes is the editor and also shares stories in it. You’ll find Holley Gerth, Rachel Anne Ridge, Emily P. Freeman, Annie F. Downs, Mary Carver, Jacque Watkins, Lysa Whittle, Jessica Turner, Sarah Mae and Alia Joy.

I've loved the stories and the simple daily readings.
Profile Image for Laura.
42 reviews
July 6, 2018
This little blue devotional is a true treasure! I often find it difficult to find just the right devotional, especially when intended for a gift. However, look no more because THIS book is it! Filled with personal experiences from everyday women that are relatable and pertinent to life, one finds validation, encouragement and strength in these pages. Search the topics to meet your present need in life and be comforted; just like talking with a true friend. This book will be referred to over and over again as one of my favorites!
Profile Image for Sheliea.
1 review
October 6, 2017
There is a lot of insight and wisdom, lessons learned, and lives lived out on the pages of this beautiful little book. A Moment to Breathe is a wonderful daily devotional written by women for women and one, I believe, every woman should have in her life. Our lives can get so busy that we often put ourselves last and forget to take time for us and sometimes put God and our spiritual life on the back burner. A Moment to Breathe helps us to focus on just that...taking a moment to breathe, to refocus, renew, and refresh our hearts and souls.
Profile Image for Isabella Morganthal.
7 reviews3 followers
October 4, 2017
Wonderful devotional that meets you right where you are! Would totally recommend to anyone regardless of age. Whether you're a busy teen or a mom trying to balance everything, you're going to find this book encouraging. As a crazy busy young adult, I was excited to see that the devotions are short, sweet, and right to the point. Super easy to read, even when I'm having a busy day. Love it!

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
40 reviews
October 4, 2017
I love the textured cover and peaceful vibe of the cover that draws me to pick up this devotional. This compilation of thoughts by so many different ladies is pulled together seamlessly to encourage women in all we face daily. I feel each gave a glimpse into their own imperfect life in a short story and tied it well to a thoughtful application for us. It's just the right length to fit in before work each morning and a pleasure to look forward to as a great start to my day!
Profile Image for Cindy Davis- Cindy's Book Corner.
1,515 reviews90 followers
November 11, 2020
This was a great devotional. I love that each day you would hear from different authors/writers. It really added to the variety of topics that were covered. It also helped you to see things from many different perspectives. It made the devotional more interesting, instead of hearing from the same voice for an entire year, which can get monotonous and boring! The topics were relevant and engaging and I would highly recommend this devotional =)
Profile Image for Ireland.
117 reviews
December 25, 2020
This devotional is intended to be read in a year. I’ll be honest, it took me over two years to read this because I kept forgetting that I was reading it. 😂
There was a small handful of devotionals in this book that I thought I got something out of. But a majority of the devotionals seemed to use the Bible verses out of context. I prefer to have the devotionals I read to use the Bible verses in the correct context. Because of this, I gave this devotional 2 ⭐️.
Profile Image for Vnunez-Ms_luv2read.
899 reviews27 followers
December 17, 2017
As a fan of devotionals., I put this book right at the top. What an oustanding devotional. Very easy to read and follow. I love the scripture and the devotional that accompanies it and then the moment to breathe. I often gift devotionals to my loved ones during the holidays, and this one will be one that I will present to people for gifts.
Profile Image for Lori Whitaker.
12 reviews
October 4, 2017
This book is just wrecking me in a fresh and wonderful way. Each day is literally an inhale of beautiful truth that ANYBODY has time for. And the book itself is so gorgeous you will want to leave it out for you to grab whenever you need a moment to breathe.
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