Hagar: Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me (Bible Study)

by Shadia Hrichi

You are "The God Who Sees Me."

Discover a close relationship with God no matter the pain or suffering in your life. Witness the depths of God's compassion through the eyes of Hagar, a runaway slave who meets the living God in a desert of despair, where she gives Him the name El Roi, "The God Who Sees Me." A largely forgotten Old Testament character, Hagar is actually one of only a few people who have ever spoken directly with the LORD.

Through this seven week study, you will find that when you surrender your life into God's hands, your trials and triumphs serve a magnificent purpose: to draw you into the arms of the faithful God who sees you.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian

262 pages, Paperback

Published October 10, 2017

About the author

Shadia Hrichi is a passionate Bible teacher who has a heart for seeing lives transformed by the power of God’s Word. She received a masters in Biblical and Theological studies from Western Seminary, as well as a masters in Criminal Justice from the State University of New York.

Shadia is the author of several Bible studies, including HAGAR, LEGION, and TAMAR, from her “Behind the Seen” series, and is often invited to speak at churches, conferences, and other events. Shadia’s Bible studies have been endorsed by Bible Study magazine (Faithlife/Logos Bible software), bestselling authors Francine Rivers, Liz Cutis-Higgs, Chris Tiegreen, Susy Flory, and many others.

Currently residing in northern California, Shadia loves to visit the ocean each week for “a date with Jesus.”

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free ARC digital copy of this book.

I was not quite expecting this book to be so in depth! It was quite a study. The book is entitled "Hagar: Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me". I was wondering when I started reading this book how the author was going to get a huge study out of a character in the Bible who only has about 3 mentions. The way she does this is by not only studying Hagar's life, but all the ones who affected her life, namely Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, and her son, Ishmael. In each character, the author reveals how God is the "God behind the Seen".

This book will build your faith as you study how God takes this motley crew into a group that trusts Him through extreme circumstances. The author gives personal insights, deep studies into the Hebrew words and cultures, and forces the reader to take deep introspective looks into his or her own life of faith.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've always felt a lot of sadness for Hagar...she was used, abused, and thrown out by the people in her life...but God still looked down on her with love. I was very excited when I found out that there was a Bible study focusing on this lonely woman in the Bible. 

The study is 7 weeks long, with 5 days of study per week. Each day took me about 45 minutes to complete. The study goes deep into scripture and causes the person who is studying to really ponder and think about many different things along the way.  Each day starts with a reading by the author, followed by a time of reflection, called "Pause to Ponder". Then it is time to dig into scripture, with many questions to answer. There is plenty of space in the margins to write answers to questions. 


Some of the questions are very straight forward and easy to answer, while others are thought provoking and cause you to look into your life and reflect on your life and experiences. 

The content of the study was excellent. I loved the lessons that I learned and the time that I spent with God. I highly recommend this in depth study!

I received this book from the author/publisher to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

[Becca Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an incredibly in-depth study despite Hagar's short presence in the Bible. It includes more than just Hagar's story though, but also shares about several other people who were involved in her story. Sarah, Abraham, Ishmael, and Isaac were all also studied. The end of the book spends time talking about Jesus and how ultimately everything leads to a need for Jesus in our lives.

My biggest complaint for the book was that the time it took on a day's study varied greatly by the day. Some days felt very long and others didn't take long at all. I understand that it's nearly impossible to make all days equal (Especially with a lot of self-examining questions), but I wish they were at least more even than they were.

I don't know about you, but before reading this study I hadn't given Hagar much thought. I remember feeling bad for her, but I honestly don't think I ever considered God's role in her life and how He sees her. Because she is part of Abraham's story and Isaac is the true promised child, Hagar's story is often lost in the background. This study helped put Hagar's life into perspective in a personal way I didn't expect.

*I won a free copy from a goodreads giveaway in hopes of an honest review.

[Emily Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've truly learned so much about the Bible , especially Hagar's story (and the surrounding persons), as well as learning about myself through this study.

I loved how many questions there were, helping you work through not only personal issues but also getting to dig deeper into the Bible!

Shadia truly puts her whole heart into this Bible study, telling personal stories and truths. She comes along to tell everyone that God Does See You.

I enjoyed this Bible Study very much and got one for my mother.

*Given to me in exchange for an honest review from Goodreads.

[Ylva · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this in-depth Bible study on the story of Hagar. I guess that a lot of people haven't really thought about Hagar before. They might know her as Sarah's servant, but Shadia shows that she was so much more than that! I learned a lot about Hagar and God's love in this study. The author completed each chapter with experiences from her own life and reflective questions for the reader.

What I really liked about this book is that the reader is not just reading, but really actively studying God's word in addition to reading the book. At the beginning of a week, you'd often have to read a complete chapter in Genesis and then focus on some verses in detail and also some references and relevant passages in other books of the Bible. So I got both a very detailed picture of Hagar's story and how it fits in with the larger message of the Bible and how it reflects and foreshadows the events told in the New Testament. Shadia uses Hagar's story to give hope to the reader and make him/her realize that God has a plan for everyone and that he is always there to comfort us. The book was easy to read and I loved the combination of studying the Bible and applying what you've learned to your own life.

Recommended for everyone that likes Bible studies or Christian self-help book and also for everyone that wants to learn more about Hagar.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Ebosereme Nwamu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an extensive and deep study for anyone who really want to study about Hagar Abrahma and Sarah, and about how their lives affected each of them and in extension all who read about them.
This study would take you on a journey on why and how you can trust in God's promises throught the thick and thins of life.

I love the way the writer draws you into an in-depth study with prompt and questions to guide you to the truth. I love how the writer included her story into the study, it helps drive the lessons home.
A part of the study "pause to ponder" helps you to really think and reflect on what you are learning. It's like taking a break from your study and really chewing what you've gleaning.
I like the "supplementary reading" that's gives you a background history of what is not recorded in the Bible to help you understand what was prevalent in those times.
The study handles each topic with depht and clarity. I like the inductive approach the writer used which will help every serious student of scripture ask the why, where, who, what, when and how questions to properly understand, interpret and apply Biblical text to their lives.
The study divided into days helps you spread out study so you don't get to rush it and miss out. It gives you what to look forward to each day.

I loved the focus of the study, God and you. From concentrating and building this relationship, one would be able to love those around them and relate like God wants one to.
Scriptural references to the new testament makes it very balanced for students of scriptures and for new believers who pick this study to have a balanced view and knowledge of scriptures.
I like the build up from one chapter to another. The topics are not disjointed but they is a continum.
For each topic of the study, there are laods of indepth study to make sure the student is able to go home with every how to.
This study shows us the point of Hagar's story in scriptures. Hagar has been bad-mouthed over the years by her role in Abraham's and Sarah's life. But from this study, one will come to know that everything in scriptures points to Jesus. So no part of scripture or story is less important than another. If we settle and study we'd get to see all parts pointing to and back to Jesus. From this study one gets to see why Hagar's story was included in scriptures.

God's love for Hagar, Ishmael and every other human he created in his image is not dependant on anything we could ever do or will do but it is dependent on Who He is. His love for us is the same yesterday, today and forever. And through the cross of Jesus that love is made available to everyone who comes to Him. God's promise to Hagar came to pass. She wasn't abandoned by God and this study clearly helps the students with extensive scriptural references to see this. God's purposes are far greater than any one person can imagine.

One of the great themes of this study is that there is no Jew or Gentile in God's presence. He accepts all those who calls out to Him like Hagar. God sees and loves us right where we are.

I recommend this study to new believers with help from an older believer and student of God's word. To those who struggle with identify, and if God knows, sees and hears them. To those who have been shunned by those around them. To those wondering like Hagar if God has a plan for their lives. To those in the wilderness period of their lives thinking what God's plans are. To those wondering if good can come out of a bad situation.

I received a copy of this study for my honest review. Every opinion expressed here are mine.

[Michelle Kidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hagar

Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me



by Shadia Hrichi

Abilene Christian University Press & Leafwood Publishers

Leafwood Publishers



Christian , Religion & Spirituality

Pub Date 10 Oct 2017

I am reviewing a copy of Hagar Through Leafwood Publishers and Netgalley:

Hagar: Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me is broken into seven weeks. In Part One we are encouraged to look for God’s Presence in the detours of our lives. The author goes on to point out that there are times we will doubt God’s presence because the world doesn’t make sense. The danger of grasping God’s presence to hold on to our perceived grasp on control is also brought up. There are times we will flee God’s presence in the midst of abuse and mistreatment. We are encouraged too, to Marvel God’s presence behind the scene.

In Week Two the author talks about encountering God. The danger of looking for love with all the wrong places are brought up. We are reminded too of how we thirst for God in times of the desert of abandonment. We are reminded too that God embraces us, even when no one else knows our name. We are reminded too that we need to Cling to God, in a world that is hostile. We are reminded too that we can rest in God’s peace for our future.

In Week Three Through the life of Hagar and drawing parallels to our own lives we are reminded that we can rest on God’s Promises. We are reminded of how we can often be humbled by God’s promises. We are reminded too that as believers our citizenship is in Heaven. We are encouraged too to surrender to God’s wise path. We are encouraged too, to count our blessings, and to believe in God’s Faithfulness. The author goes on to point out the power of intercesory prayer.

Week four talks about God’s protection. We are encouraged too to give God all the broken pieces. He can make us whole again. We are encouraged too embrace God’s calling on our lives.

In Week Five the author talks about surrendering to God’s plan. We are encouraged too prepare for our journey. In Day two thevauthor goes on to talk about facing our mountains.

Week Six the author talks about God’s Passion. We are encouraged to accept our God given assignment. We are encouraged too to stand firm against the enemy. We are encouraged too to align our will with God’s plan. We are encouraged too to prepare to enter enemy territory.

In the final week, week seven the author talks about God’s Purpose. In Day One Of week seven we are encouraged too trust God’s purpose right where we are. In day two the author talks about seeing our story redeemed for God’s Purposes. In Day Three we are encouraged to rise up to embrace God’s call. In Day four we are encouraged to set our hope in God’s Kingdom. In Day five we are encouraged to celebrate our victory in Christ.

Hagar would work great for individual study, or a group Bible study.

Five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

I chose this book due to my interest in Hagar, a sometimes forgotten character towards the beginning of the Biblical story. However, what I didn’t realise is that it was a seven-week Bible study rather than a typical book. Seven weeks later and I’ve completed the study and learnt bits and pieces along the way.

The reason I am drawn to Hagar is that she finds herself alone and abandoned yet meets with God in that lonely place. In fact, she names God ‘El Roi’ – The God Who Sees Me. Shadia Hrichi dives into this story and helps the reader understand what this meant for Hagar and what it might mean for them in the present day.

Whilst the book does centre on Hagar and her son Ishmael, it naturally has an in-depth look at Abraham and Sarah’s story to provide context. However, in the final week or two, the book does seem to shift to looking at the story of Jesus – there’s a clear ‘gospel message’, which the author wishes the reader to grasp. Personally I would have rather let the story of Hagar communicate that itself rather than explicitly spelling it out.

The Bible study is formatted in a way that is helpful for many people and Shadia Hrichi is clearly an educated author who has done her homework. The study contains different questions and activities throughout and encourages the reader to stop and ponder in places. Everything is well referenced and there are plenty of honest and open personal stories from Hrichi which enrich the experience and provide tangible examples to support her perspective.

I found the most interesting parts of the study to be the ‘word studies’ in which Hrichi gave valuable information about the original Hebrew words. This kind of information brings the Bible to life for me. Such is the variety of activities, there is surely enough here to appeal to those who learn in different ways.

To be honest, I haven’t done a specific Bible study in this way for years and persevering through this book reminded me why. I would have much preferred a ‘normal’ book on the topic. However, I can see how this study book would help many readers and was very impressed by Hrichi’s in-depth knowledge, coupled with her honesty. If you like Bible studies, I’d definitely recommend this one. It’s great to see a minor female character be examined in such a prominent and special way. Hagar is often overlooked or forgotten, but as Hrichi unpacks, she has an important revelation of who God is. Those who take time to examine her story will be enriched.

A copy of this book was provided for review by the publisher via NetGalley.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love doing Bible Studies and was very excited to receive this one to do. When I do a Bible Study I take it seriously and want to get as much as I can from it. In order to achieve this I wanted to take my time and go through each chapter and do the homework involved in it. I hate to admit it but I knew very little about Hagar before starting this workbook. The name is vaguely familiar so I was ready to learn what I could in this in-depth study.

It was a nice journey to start with Abraham and Sarah where we discover that Hagar was an Egyptian slave belonging to Sarah. I remember how much Sarah desired a child but became too impatient to wait on God. What she does questions her faith in God. She gives Hagar to her husband in order to produce a child. I wonder how Hagar felt as she realized she was being manipulated into something she had no say over? How many times have we felt trapped in our lives? Just like Hagar does, do we run away when we can't control our situation?

The study is very well written and uses insightful scriptures to tell the story through God's Word. It is divided into different sections which takes us through trials, emotions and God's unfailing love. What an encounter Hagar experienced with God. She never thought she was important, but God shows her that she was called to give birth to Abraham's child. She was important and allowed God to heal her thoughts of not belonging anywhere. How many times have you felt unimportant? I know I have all my life. I allowed the enemy to steal my innocence as a child and allowed me to feel unworthy and unloved.

I have enjoyed this study very much and appreciate the author's details of a woman who at one time felt worthless and allowed God to show her that her worth is valuable in His eyes. As women we all have faced a time when we felt unattractive, useless or lonely. Through this study God shows us by scripture that we are His treasure. We don't need to feel ashamed of our past anymore. With a loving God to guide us we can be set free from the bondage of self doubt and guilt and begin to walk with our head held high.

I appreciate how this study has helped me understand my worth and see clearer the plan that God has for my life. Hagar is a wonderful story and the author does an amazing job of writing the Bible Study with clarity and compassion. I highly recommend this book to those who want a deeper understanding of His Word and promises for our lives.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Stephanie Norton · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was surprised to have found this to be more of a Bible-Study material than a story. This book launches you into the life of Hagar, who was a servant given to Sarah, the famous one that gave birth to Abraham's first son Ishmael. We see her dealing with loneliness and feeling abandoned. Hagar was an Egyptian slave. It is broken into seven weeks. Part one of the book encourages us to look for God's Presence. Everyone has doubted God at some point in our lives.

Hrichi does a great job of getting into the scriptures and helping the reader dive into Hagar's life with her. I will be honest I had no clue about Hagar in the Bible, but now I do have a great sense of her.

I love books like "Hagar" because it reminds me that God loves me for who I am and is there for me all the time. It is always nice being reminded of that.


I found the way Hrici formatted this book was well done. It is broken up in Two Parts and is broken down to into seven-weeks.


Week Two is about encountering God. With a hostile world we live in we need to trust God knows what he is doing.

Week Three is all about God's promises and count our blessings.

Week Four talks about God's protection.

Week Five talks about surrendering to God's plan.

Week Six talk about God's Passion.

Week Seven talks about God's Purpose. You can read this book in one day or really focus on the material week by week. I read it in full.


This is a great Bible-Study material, especially for a women's Bible-Study group. There are many thought-provoking questions at the end of each week. Hirchi uses examples and stories from her own life to help readers connect with Hagar's story. I highly recommend this book for Bible-Study. I was really hoping this would be in story form until a study material, but it still one very interesting to read.

Thank you to Celebrate Lit and Net Galley for a free copy of this book. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Robin Mason · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the 21st century it’s easy to forget that not so long ago women had few rights—or none at all. At best we were beloved of a caring husband; at worst, we were nothing more than chattel, property to be traded or bought. Women didn’t question when a man told them what to do.

I never gave much thought to Hagar. Never considered her role. Never considered her beyond her mistress dismissing her. Our role as women may have changed over the course of time, but our hearts and emotions have not. No matter Hagar did only as she was told, her heart must have been crushed to be exiled to the wilderness with her child.

Ms. Hrichi brings to light Hagar’s role, and her journey. With meticulous and in-depth insight, she guides the reader to a deeper understanding of Father God’s hand on the servant girl. The author urges the reader to probe Scripture to discover meaning, making it—as all Scripture is—applicable to our lives today.

“Am I known? Am I loved? Am I home?” Ms. Hrichi opens her study with these questions. Heart searching questions. I know I’ve wondered these things in my life. And I love her answer, “God is Behind the Seen.”

She begs the reader to “Pause to Ponder,” asking deep and probing questions, and offers a “Your Turn” section to integrate the study with our own lives. She shares Bible passages with relevant questions. She links seeming unconnected Scripture, bringing to light revelations of Who Father God is, and who we are in Him.

I especially loved her reference to God’s Word as a treasure hunt, for it surely is.


ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.


#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Hagar, Shadia Hrichi, Celebrate Lit

[A. Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received this book for free to review from Celebrate Lit. All opinions expressed are my own.

I can't even begin to tell you how much of an encouragement this devotional has been to me! Although I have not finished it yet, I am close to finishing and have enjoyed this study SO much!
Hagar: Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me is a7-week devotional based on the life of Hagar (obviously, hah). I found this unique, because, honestly, the Bible doesn't spend a lot of time talking about Hagar. But from the moment I started the book, the author drew me into this woman's story, and I began to see a picture of this small snapshot into Abraham and Sarah's story that perhaps most preachers don't spend a lot of time focusing on. A picture of God's grace to a slave woman. And of God's grace to us, in being there in those times when our struggles seem so hard! When He asks us to do hard things (like telling Hagar to go back to Sarah and submit to her authority). So many aspects of this story just hold me in awe.
One of the things I liked the most was the questions the author includes throughout each day. Sometimes I get annoyed at the question parts in devotionals because it seems like they were just added to make someone feel like they were being stretched but there's not much to them. The questions in this devotional make you dive deeper into God's word. Analyzing parts of Scripture, not just moving over them and touching on how this makes you feel, or what you think you need to change in your life (which are good questions sometimes, but not necessarily what's always needed to make people think harder).
The devotional is really easy to read, it's not written in deep theological terminology. I loved how Ms. Hrichi added in little stories of her own life to show how to apply the principles she's teaching in a practical way. It would be great for both a Ladies' Bible study or just for personal reflection.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow- what an in depth look at Hagar, a character that has always taken a back seat to the story of Abraham. I honestly have read her story countless times, and never did I realize all the spiritual themes and depth of a faith journey Hagar's life exhibited in the Scripture. The truths of who God is through her story shines through brilliantly in this study and so many New Testament connections are made as well. I've never read a Bible study on Hagar, and I really found myself intrigued at the layers our author digs into. So the big question with Bible study, how does it apply to me? There is always a great application section at the end of each day's study, and the questions posed make you really think through each aspect of the teaching. There are seven weeks, and then a day for each week of some reading, both the book and Scripture, and then questions to help you digest the info, and then application points and questions. Overall, I would say this is best done for those doing a group study because it is just so meaty- which for a Bible study is a good thing, but can be a little intimidating on your own in my opinion. Of course, if you have time to dedicate about 45 mins everyday to focusing on the study, you might would be ok on your own too :) I think this study is perfect for any person looking for an intriguing, in depth Bible study on a little known Bible person, whether group or individual.



I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.

[Mary-ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you think of when you hear the name Hagar? Who was Hagar? When I was invited to do a book launch on the Bible study of Hagar, I was intrigued. This is one that I really wanted to do.
We all know that Hagar was a servant given to Sarah, the famous one that gave birth to Abraham’s first son Ishmael.
This study aptly named “The God Who Sees You”, is exactly what the study is about, God sees who we are and what we need. As you go through this study you will feel that God loves you for who you are, exactly where you are at this moment. You will see that He is with you, just as He was with Hagar during her flight into the desert.
This is a study that truly gets you into the word, one that makes you think.

Shadia Hrichi really gets into the scriptures and helps us as readers get into the scripture with her. After reading this, you will see Hagar from a deeper, different viewpoint, and discover that our God is the God Who Sees You, as well.
I did this study alone, but it would make a great study for a women’s group, one that I highly recommend.

received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and 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.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hagar is a seven-week Bible study that contains a lot of truths and worthwhile material. I feel Shadia demonstrates her enthusiam for this subject throughout the pages of this book. Each lesson contains a Scripture passage to read, background information, along with questions.

I personally loved how SHADIA HRICHI encourages her readers to use a Bible version they prefer instead of requiring the reader to utilize a particular version. This decision encourages the reader to interact with their own Bibles which I like.

The book is broken down into daily lessons which helps guide the reader to spending time in God’s Word daily, which is another feature I like. I also appreciate how the writing in this Bible Study is geared so anyone can read and understand what is being stated.

Hagar is one of those people from the Bible who I feel needs to be studied more. I love the idea of Abraham and Sarah being sent into Egypt so they could bring Hagar out of that country. I found it interesting to read the portions addressing the relationship between Sarah and Hagar.

The use of Biblical passages and Scriptural references caused me to think and draw my own conclusions rather than setting a hard line of what I had to believe.

So if you are looking for a Bible Study about Hagar, check this book out for yourself.

I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.

[Rebecca L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

HAGAR by Shadia Hirchi is an in-depth Bible study about the story of HAGAR and her place in the biblical narrative. It is clear from the author's writing that she has a deep love for God and a desire to help others by shedding light on often overlooked Bible stories.

Hirchi uses examples and stories from her own life to help readers to connect with Hagar's story. She also encourages readers to carefully consider the biblical text. She provides exercises and questions that require readers to examine the biblical text very closely in order to find the answers. I worked through this study on my own, but this study would also work well for a small group.

I really enjoy reading Bible Studies and commentaries that are written by people from diverse faith backgrounds. Hirchi's work helped me to see Hagar's story from a unique perspective. She picked up on some very interesting connections that helped me to see Hagar's story through a different lens. Her writing also helped me to draw connections to my own life and to consider how God might be speaking to me through the biblical text.

Note: Thank you to Celebrate Lit and Net Galley for a free copy of this book. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hagar is a very detailed and thought provoking Bible study on a woman who's story does not seem like a happy one, yet she is not forsaken by the God who loves her and sees her.

This is a seven week, five day study with questions to anwer and exercises to do, like looking up specific verses and answering questions. I like that type of study as a lot of times I see things I had never noticed before.

Hagar is a complicated character. I have never really thought much about her except what she was to Abraham and Sarah. Yet through Sarah's impatience with God and Abraham's compliance to Sarah, Hagar is thrust into the middle of their story not by any choice of hers.

She as a person seems used and abused and eventually she and her son are cast out. I like that there is now a study on her, because obviously God saw her, loved her, and her story has been read by many from the Bible. After this Bible study, I think you will find she is a very relatable person. Good stuff.

I received a copy of this novel from the publishers. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Hagar" by Shadia Hrichi is a Bible study divided into seven weeks. I haven't completed all of it because this study is so rich and has me really digging to really see what God is trying to teach me through this study. I brought a notebook and am writing down the questions and my answers in instead of in the book because I might want to give this book to someone else to use, or even want to do the study again because each time you read and study the Bible, you learn something new.

I am learning things about God and myself that I never thought of before. I think this book has come to me at the right time in life because I am a point in my life where I am searching more than I ever to know how God really sees me. So even if my part of the tour is over, I will continue this study.


The quotes on the sides of the pages are really inspired and make you stop ponder them as well.

I recommend this study to anyone who truly wants to draw closer to our Heavenly Father and really know that He really does see us.

I received a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hagar: Rediscovering The God Who Sees Me is the latest Study Book from Shadia Hrichi and it is eye opening. I have not had the pleasure of reading Shadia Hrichi so I am very glad I had this opportunity. This study brings into the light of Hagar, the mother of Ismael, Abraham's first son. Hagar was a slave for Abraham's wife, Sarah. I haven't seen many books about Hagar so this was an interesting read about this famous woman. I found this study to be in depth and it brought me back to realizing that God does see me. This is a study I will be rereading and it will stay with me for a long time. I found Shadia Hrichi's unique style of writing to be fantastic. She uses the Bible and her experiences make this study down to earth and real. From cover to cover this study is beautiful. I HIGHLY recommend this study and this author to anyone looking for a Bible study to do as a group or individually. I cannot wait to read more from Shadia Hrichi. I give this book 5+ Stars

I received this book from Celebrate Lit Blogger Program and the author for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.

[Jennifer Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hagar Rediscovering the God who sees me by Shadia Hrichi is a 7 week Bible study about Hagar and her role in the Bible and God’s influence in her life. Each week is divided into 5 days of personal study with each day having one or more questions to ponder or group discussion. The author states in her introduction that Hagar is a great example of someone who discovered God during a difficult time in her life. A minor character with a powerful redemptive story. What lessons can be gleaned from a woman who suffered at the hands of others? What did God do for Hagar that He can still do for us?
This study is very interesting. Unfortunately, I had no time to fully do the study before posting my review; however, after reading though the study, I am eager to do the study in its entirety. I found the format cut off in the eBook version, if you can get a physical copy and want a study, I highly recommend Hagar Rediscovering the God who sees me.

Hagar Rediscovering the God who sees me
Is available in paperback and eBook.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like this study. I was surprised at some of the insights Hrichi has on the life of Hagar. I had known Hagar was an Egyptian slave but had not even considered the possibility that Abraham's visit to Egypt might include the purpose of removing Hagar from that country. She is first mentioned after Abraham's visit there so it is certainly a possibility. Another surprising insight was the parallel of Eve and Sarai, both offering a temptation to their husbands. And both husbands went along.

I also liked the insights Hrichi had with respect to abuse and mistreatment. She shares much from her own life experiences in those areas. She also provides very good questions that relate the insights from the study to our personal lives.

I recommend this good study of a relatively unknown character in the Bible. You'll experience good teaching and thoughtful questions as you complete the daily studies.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was intrigued when I was invited to participate in a Book Review of a Bible Study of Hagar. Hagar was a servant in the Bible. Hagar is a 7 week study that is VERY in depth.

I really like the layout of the Bible Study. Each week has daily lessons. The daily lessons have a scripture to study and questions to answer for the day. I also really appreciate that writing in the book is encouraged, although I tend not to write in Bible Study books. I also was really encouraged that the author encourages those doing the 7 week study, to use the version of the Bible that they normally use and feel most comfortable using. I feel this helps the reader.

Shadia really takes an in depth look into Hagar. Those doing the 7 week Study will really be challenged as they go through the daily lessons and the Study. Hagar has always been an interesting person of the Bible and I feel I really learned a lot by reading through the Study.

The Bible Study of Hagar can be done individually or with a group. A Group study would really make for some GREAT discussions! I highly recommend this Bible Study book.

[Pam Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hagar: Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me is a study of an often forgotten character in Genesis. Hagar many times takes a back seat to Abraham and Sarah, who received a promise from God which led to the beginning of the Jewish nation. Hagar was merely a slave girl and many times felt used, abandoned, and forgotten. But God doesn't forget! Hagar's story is one of redemption, hope and meaning. Shadia presents a rich look into the life of Hagar and in doing so, gives us hope for our own future! Her insights and "nuggets" of information bring this story to life and cause the reader to look at her own desperate situations differently. If you enjoy digging deep into the scriptures and learning more about what God has to say to us, then I would highly recommend this book! The personal questions throughout will cause you to examine your own life and hopefully you will be a better person for it!

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Bible study on Hagar offers a deep, insightful exploration of the person and circumstances we read about in the Book of Genesis. We know Hagar was Sarah’s slave who bore a son to Abraham, but there is so much more to the story. You can tell the author put much study into the lessons. They cover five weeks with five days of study each week and includes lots of Scripture along with application. Slowly working through this Bible story causes a person to take time to better understand and gain new knowledge about Hagar and her life at that time, along with the other Bible characters. I appreciate the way the entire book is presented and the rich material offered. The author also brings in New Testament verses too and connects them to Old Testament truths we read. I recommend this for individuals or groups. There’s plenty to discuss. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Patricia Bryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bible study, Hagar: Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me, is a well written study that provides interaction through various methods such as open ended questions, fill in the blank, multiple choice and sliding scale, just to name a few. Opening yourself to understanding Hagar and her relationship with God will bring you to a new understanding of yourself and how, in the midst of trials, God sees you. I thoroughly enjoyed reading and responding to the study material in my pre-release edition. This study can be used by both large and small groups. However, large groups may benefit by breaking down into smaller groups to allow study members to feel less exposed when discussing personal situations. The points to ponder are great for meditation. Get this study about our loving God who sees us by Shadia Hrichi; your soul will be enriched.

[Anni Welborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I selected this book because I thought it was historical, Biblical fiction. What I got was an in-depth Bible study, which is was much more than I was expecting. While the Bible study is rigorous, it is accessible. The author breaks the concepts down over seven weeks, which seemed long at first, but went quickly. Much of the study analyzes the context in which Hagar found herself – the slave of Abraham and Sarah. And yet God sees her in her lowly estate and meets her there at her most desperate.

I found the study encouraging. While my situations in life have never been as desperate as Hagar’s, it was good to see the many ways God meets people behind the scenes, or “behind the seen.”

I gratefully received this book as an eARC from the author, publisher, and NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well-written with great detail and depth of insight. Hagar-Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me is a thorough and enjoyable Bible study designed to be personalized with the questions and implications well-pondered. The author provides a very helpful About the Study chapter to explain each section, the individual components therein, and the essential need for application of what is learned. I found the supplemental readings to be very beneficial although it was necessary to plan time for them in addition to the regular study for each day. This is an excellent study written in an accessible and engaging style. I truly enjoyed and do highly recommend this one!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

[Emily Yager · Rating 4 out of 5]

When thinking about the women of the Bible, Hagar probably wouldn’t make the top ten list. Honestly, I barely knew anything about her. I wondered how someone could write a useful study on someone who is barely even mentioned in the Bible.

I wasn’t excepting this seven week bible study to have such depth. This study not only talks about Hagar, but also the people in her life that were also affected by the choices made. Each chapter is concludes with questions, to dig deeper.

I learned a lot about Hagar and God’s love while going through this study. I did this study on my own, but it would work well with a group. I recommend this Bible Study for anyone who has ever felt invisible to God.

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through “Hagar: Rediscovering the God Who Sees Me” Sharia Hrichi leads us through a deep study of Hagar that is rich in biblical truth. Woven throughout are personal stories that help illustrate biblical truths. As you interact with the biblical truths through reading and answering questions throughout you will learn more about the God who sees. She gives ample space for answering questions and making notes in the margins and on “notes” pages. It is very well written, and I love the structure and layout. This will make a great individual, small or large group study.

NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing from Shadia Hrichi. I was not required to provide a positive review. Thoughts here are my own opinion.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hagar

This book is a very good bible study guide. It is in four different sections. Each section has so many days. The days has assignments of bible reading, pause to ponder and activities to do.

There is so much to learn from this book. I could tell the author put a lot of work in this book. Anyone looking for a Bible study guide I would recommend this one. It is well written and so easy to understand.

I love all the activities to do in the book. There is different quotes or bible verses on the side of the pages. On some of the pause to ponder sections it will bring attention to the quotes.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.