He is Enough: Living in the Fullness of Jesus, A Study in Colossians

by Asheritah Ciuciu

Discover the Secret to a Full Life

We live in a world of scarcity. We say, “I don’t have enough time… maybe when we have more money… if only I had a little more help…” But Scripture says if we have Jesus, we have enough.

In this 6-week study of Colossians, Asheritah Ciuciu leads readers to discover the life-altering importance of Jesus’ sufficiency and sovereignty. And you don’t need hours a day to enjoy this Bible Study. Each day’s study contains three paths:


Snack: a bite-size morsel of truth to chew on throughout your busy day
Feast: a dig-deep guide to maximizing the “meat” you’re getting out of your bible study
Serve: a service challenge for making theory a reality
You can enjoy this study with all three courses or pick the one that works best for you. Discover the joy and freedom that abounds when we know deep in our hearts that Jesus truly is enough.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Faith, Christian Non Fiction

272 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2018

About the author

Asheritah Ciuciu is a writer and speaker who helps women find joy in Jesus in the midst of an overwhelming life. She and her husband, Flaviu, grew up in Romania but now raise their spunky children in northeast Ohio. Connect with her at www.OneThingAlone.com.

Reviews

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good six week study of Colossians for new Christians or those relatively new to Bible study. It is not a comprehensive study of the book but does explore the main ideas for each section. The thrust of the entire study is, “Everything we need we already have in Jesus.” (Loc 30/1729)

There are several aspects of this study I like. One is that there is a brief daily study that can be done in a few minutes by those with time constraints and also a more in depth daily study for those willing to put in more time. Another is that Ciuciu asks readers to rewrite each section of Colossians as it is studied. I have recently begun doing that and really appreciate the benefits of rewriting the biblical text.

Because this study is not comprehensive, it does not extensively cover every verse nor subject in Colossians. One topic Ciuciu does not really look at is in Col. 2:15, that Jesus disarmed powers and authorities and what this means to our daily life. I thought that would have been important as one aspect of Jesus being everything we need.

I like the study method Ciuciu introduces: FEAST (focus on God, engage the text, assess the main idea, spark transformation, turn to God in worship). I really like the final worship part as it helps readers form a habit of worshiping God daily. I like that there are additional resources available on line, such as videos. The links are provided in the book. There are also additional resources at the end of the book, like a very good devotional guide for leaders.

I do recommend this study. Those who do the study will be trained in using Bible study aids and then be encouraged to do one section all on their own, without Ciuciu's questions and suggestions. It is a good way to learn how to do inductive Bible study while being reminded Jesus is everything we need.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great study on the book of Colossians! It will help you gain a deeper understanding of Paul’s writing and help to apply it directly to your life.

[Jerrye Tellmeagreatstorylove · Rating 4 out of 5]

He is Enough – Living in the fullness of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

____________________________________________________________

Asheritah Ciuciu brings Bible Study seekers another excellent study based on the book of Colossians to discover how Jesus is enough for all you want, need and desire for your Christian life.

I completed my first study by Ms. Ciuciu last Fall/Winter that was focused on the gift of Jesus during Advent and loved every page. So when I was offered this study for review, I signed up immediately. Her way of delving so deep into Bible passages inspires me to look closer and search harder to find the quiet clues to becoming more like Jesus. This study has certainly been a deep dive into Colossians and I’m still not quite finished with the last chapter. I have enjoyed the two different sections available each day and actually ended up dividing the assigned days into two and extending the study to 12 weeks rather than just 6. Each day you are able to begin with a cursory glance at the verses to be focused on called a “Snack”. From there you are able to move into a section called “Feast at the Table” that uses the same verses but dissects them to get out what Ms. Ciuciu calls the “meat of the text”. I personally enjoyed the feast section better because I was able to look beyond what was written in the verses to the meaning that Paul intended for his audience and how that still affects us today. I will say that this study is not for those who don’t set aside about 30-45 mins to study each day. I definitely couldn’t get through a full day’s assigned study section and therefore adjusted it for my time. This study is meant to teach how Jesus is the answer to all questions of Salvation and the satisfaction we all seek. Daily I was challenged to decide what I had in place of Jesus that I was seeking for satisfaction. This was not done rudely or accusingly but kindly, with encouragement to look to God for help in changing my mindset. To also be reminded that Jesus offers the light burden of following Him and His actions gives such relief in a world where you need the next big thing to be seen as successful. He never called us to do other than He has already done and will provide the strength necessary to accomplish the things He has given us to do. Each week has a separate focus on an aspect of Christ following as succeeding chapters of Colossians are examined and each circles around to the fact that in Christ we can find all we need for Salvation, knowledge, peace, prosperity and joy. The understanding is that in spite of all the lure of “shiny and new” things that try to pull our attention or focus, Jesus is the one who provides what we need to be content. We often face the same problems that the Colossians did with outsiders trying to entice us with “secret knowledge” that is only available to few. But Paul teaches that the “mysteries of God” were all revealed in Jesus and He manifests the glory of God. This is critical to our faith as it removes the requirement of belonging to a select group in order to know the things of God. If we have surrendered our lives to Christ and are actively seeking to follow Him we will not be disappointed. He will be found and He will bring us closer to Himself every day. How wonderful to be secure in the knowledge that what Jesus did on the cross was enough to answer the demands of a just and righteous God! I love the thought that I don’t need to add to what He did, rather I can seek after Him with my whole heart and grow more like Him moment by moment. If you are looking for an in-depth study that will bring you encouragement and challenge, then this is a perfect fit for you. I greatly enjoyed this study and look forward to another by Ms. Ciuciu soon. I will certainly recommend this study to others in the hope that they will find as much or more faith building as I did.

I received this book free of charge from Moody Publishers in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and all opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

[Prairie Sky Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have come to greatly respect all of the Moody Bible Studies for Women, as they never fail to be in-depth, Scripture-based books that equip women with the perfect tools to dive into God’s word and discover the truths of the Bible for themselves. “He Is Enough: Living in the Fullness of Jesus” is a 6-week Bible study of Colossians written by author Asheritah Ciuciu, and published by Moody in the summer of 2018. While this book certainly holds to the high standards of each Moody Bible Study I’ve read, it also adds some new techniques, features, and ideas to the mix that bring the book of Colossians to life while teaching us new skills to use in our study of the entire Bible.

Some of the special features included in “He Is Enough” include:

- The Snack and FEAST format, which means there are two choices for each daily reading... If you don’t have much time you can choose the Snack on the Go, a brief reading to give you something to ponder as you go about your day. If you are able to give yourself a longer period of time for study that day, you can select the FEAST portion of the daily lesson, which takes more time to complete and dives deeper into the text.

- The FEAST method of Bible study also is an acronym for Focus, Engage, Assess, Spark, and Turn; each of these words will remind you of a different step to the simple yet effective process of Scripture study that Asheritah models in the book.

- Numerous little banners sprinkled throughout the book provide links to helpful online resources that pertain to that day’s study. A few examples include video tutorials for the FEAST method, additional help for completing a Biblical word study, and a fun Worship Personality quiz.

- Creative ideas for study and worship are also woven into the daily lessons, and include coloring pages and alphabet praise lists.

All of these special features help the book of Colossians come alive, and when combined with detailed introductions, insightful historical background, and thought-provoking questions, this Bible study is a truly wonderful resource. I also love how, once you finish the study of Colossians, it is easy and natural to transfer all the study skills that Asheritah has taught us to any other book of the Bible we choose, and begin another transformative study of God’s word.

Once again, Moody Bible Studies for Women has released a book that provides so much within its pages. If you are looking for a new Bible study, or seeking ideas for new ways to hide God’s word in your heart, look no further than the exciting release of “He Is Enough”!

I received this book courtesy of Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a world where so much feels out of control, it is important to remember that God is sovereign. It's not enough to know that God is in control and that he is enough for us. We must live it out.

I jumped into Asheritah Ciuciu's new study He is Enough: Living in the Fullness of Jesus. This six-week study is a deep dive into the book of Colossians. And when I say a deep dive, I mean taking this book apart in small bitesize chunks that allowed me to connect with what Paul was saying in ways I never have before. 

Before the idea of a deep dive scares you, let me reassure you - you can do this study. Ciuciu knows that each day brings with it it's own time constraints. So she's built in two different types of study for each day! For the days when you have a smaller amount of time, you can do the "Snack on the Go." This allows you to connect with the scriptures for the day, ponder what it means and go into your day dwelling on what you've learned.

For the days that you have a longer time to study, you can do those deep dives. Ciuciu asks you to truly engage with the scripture. To do this, she applies the FEAST method -Focus on God, Engage the text, Assess the main idea, Spark transformation, and Turn to God in worship. This allows you to engage with scripture in multiple ways. It was also more helpful to carry the scripture with me throughout the day.

I can tell Ciuciu did a large amount of research for this study based on the information provided in the introductions and in the questions she asks us to ponder as we look at each days pocket of scripture. I learned a lot from doing the homework and really worshiping God through what I learned.

He is Enough gives you the freedom to dig into scripture, provides ways to stay on track even on those days when finding quiet space is tough and truly learn to lean into God on the tough days.

I wish that there had been a little more context within the questions for each day's homework. Most of the time, I was able to track along with what Ciuciu was asking us to think about. But there were moments in the study where I wasn't sure what I needed to be focusing on. It could have been because I was using a different translation to study from. But occasionally, the words in my Bible did not line up with the way a question was asked, and I wasn't able to fully answer the question or dig in as deeply.

He is enough for us. The full life comes when we live recognizing that God gives us what we need. We have to turn to him in order to get what we feel we are lacking. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my own, honest opinion.

[Bethany McIlrath · Rating 5 out of 5]

He is Enough, by Asheritah Ciuciu, is a Bible study amplifying the truth that Jesus truly is sufficient for us.

Based in Colossians, the study magnifies what God’s Word says in a way that leads to praise. It’s hard not to trust Christ more as you work through this study, floored by His character.

Ciuciu balances thoughtful study with worshipful practicality well.

For example:

She begins with the historical background to give context, but it isn’t intimidating for those unfamiliar with traditional Bible study.

-Tips and tools throughout the study help those new to Bible study or those wanting to dig deeper to do so.

-The study is set up to be done 5 days a week for 6 weeks. It features a short “snack” study for the days you don’t have enough time and when you have the time, a “feast” study that is more in depth.

-The “feast” sections teach you to make observations, note what stands out, and apply what you read in Colossians.

-You can complete this study alone, with a friend, or in a group

-Her focus is on Jesus and is both reverent and relatable.

-Topics aren’t superficial or “dumbed-down,” but are very accessible.

-You’re encouraged to apply the Word in the moment. For example, Ciuciu asks “Who is someone you can pray this passage for today? Rewrite the verse in your own words…inserting your friend’s name…”

A unique aspect of Ciuciu's writing is that most of it guides you through your own study of the Word.

She writes very little of her own experience and observation, instead relying on questions and prompts to let the Spirit teach you Himself. What she does write upbuilds, though.

Examples of quotes include:

-“We cannot change on our own, but the Spirit of Jesus is more than sufficient to transform us.”

-“United with Him, we are complete, and that reality leads to a thriving life both here and now and in the age to come.”

-“You’ve been brought to fullness in Christ. There is no other ‘if only’ that will fulfill you.”

-“True humility is rooted in our awareness of God’s greatness and our desperate neediness.”

I’d highly recommend He is Enough to anyone who loves the Lord. It will increase your love for Him, your awe of Him, and your gratitude to Him. 

Praise the Lord. He is enough!

[Joanne Viola · Rating 5 out of 5]

He Is Enough: Living in the fullness of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu is a 6 week study on the book of Colossians. Taking us verse by verse, this study gives an easy to understand and overview of the book.

The basic theme of the study is: Jesus is enough.

In a time when we are being bombarded with messages which tell us we need more, or different, or better, we can easily lose sight of what is truly needed. This study brings us back to the truth that Christ is sufficient for each need and day.

We live in a hectic world. There’s hardly a moment of silence from the moment we wake up to the moment we close our eyes to sleep. And yet, it’s in the midst of this busyness, that our heavenly Father wants to speak to us, to remind us of who He is and who we are in Him.
(from page 25 of the study)

Recognizing the busyness we all face, the author has given two options for each day of study. The “Snack On The Go” for those days when three minutes is about all the time you have to give. Here you find a short thought to keep reflecting on throughout the day.

On the days when you have time to linger, you can FEAST. Here you will find a deeper study using observation, interpretation, application, and adoration. You will get to study on your own as you learn the steps of FEAST: Focus on God; Engage the text; Assess the main idea; Spark transformation which is where you apply the main idea to your own life; and Turn to God in worship.

Some days you will snack and other days, you’ll feast. Using either option, you will grow in your knowledge of Scripture.

The study also includes a devotional guide for leaders – those serving and leading others. This section is written specifically for women in ministry to supplement the study.

Whether new to Bible study or a seasoned student, this study has much to offer. The author includes use of Bible dictionaries and commentaries, and shares links for both throughout the study.

This is an encouraging study sure to ignite and renew a hunger and desire for Jesus and God’s Word.

*I was provided a copy of this book by Moody Publishers for review. All opinions are honest and my own.

[Julie D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first thing you'll notice about this Bible study is how absolutely gorgeous it is! It is so very eye appealing from the front cover to the back. I felt like so much thought was put into this study. Of course, how it looks doesn't mean anything if it isn't Biblical or doesn't teach us anything about God. However, this study definitely does just that and is excellent in bringing you to a closer relationship with the Lord and knowing Him more intimately. Being that it's published by Moody Publishers gives me assurance that it's going to be Biblical and I can trust what I'm reading and learning about.

I am enjoying doing this study so much. It digs deep, which I like, without feeling like I don't have the time to do it. I like that the author really keeps the focus on Jesus and how important it is to focus on Him. The study titles for the weeks include:

Praying through Christ
Rejoicing in Christ
Complete in Christ
Hidden with Christ
Loving like Christ and
Ministering with Christ.

There are a lot of extras in the book including a devotional guide for leaders. This study has been excellent doing it on my own but would be fantastic for a small group or Women's Bible study in church. I have learned so much doing this study, and although I haven't quite finished it, I plan to do so because it's one of the best studies I've done. I really like that I'm learning so much about Jesus and that He truly is enough in all situations.

I recommend this study very highly as an wonderful study for all women. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Side Door Communications

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this six-week study on Colossians, Asheritah Ciuciu's "He is Enough", will help you discover that you don't need what advertisers, the media, Hollywood or the people next door are trying to sell you.  All you need is the life-giving power of Jesus.
When you realize the all-sufficiency of Christ is available to you, you won't fall for the gimmicks that never live up to their promises.  Ciuciu's study is in-depth and will show you how to dig deep into the Scripture.  You will feast on God's Word as you learn about focus on God and engage in His Word.

If you want to learn how to live in the fullness of Christ, Ciuciu's study on Colossians will guide you. Using creative ideas, such as coloring pages, you will engage with the Bible study with heart and mind.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody Publishers, as part of their Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a 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.”

[Create With Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

He Is Enough is a beautifully written, highly engaging and well-designed Bible Study that takes us on a structured yet creative walk through the Word. What I like about this Bible Study is that it has something for everyone! The book contains 6 weekly lessons filled with 5 days of activities plus a weekend reflection. Activities include verses to color and memorize – guided lessons filled with historical context, bible study tips and more – guided questions for inductive study and personal journaling. There’s even a devotional guide for leaders at the end of the book!

If you are looking for a Bible Study that will help you to transform your view of yourself and your relationship with God, He Is Enough is it!

This excerpt is part of an original review that is published on my blog. To read my review in its entirety, please visit Create With Joy.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Y'all, this book really hit home for me right now. There's always that little voice saying, "If this were this way, then I could do this..." and it's simply not true! But how do we get out of that mindset? By focusing on Jesus. He is so much more than just "Enough." This is a 6 week study on Colossians, and it focuses on Jesus, how sovereign He is. It's easy to forget that in the day to day garbage we all wade through. This study would be fantastic for anyone in any stage in life. I love how she has 2 paths, a snack on the go for when you have just a little bit of time, or a meaty option for when you can dig deep. The 6 weeks is another thing I like. Long enough to get you to re-train your brain, but short enough that it doesn't seem to require a huge chuck out of you. Love it!

**I received these books complimentary from publishers, in exchange for my HONEST review. All opinions are my own.**

[Dianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

He is enough -Asheritah Ciuciu

This is a bible study, ideally for small church groups, but will also work as a personal bible study too.
It is built on two levels, the first is called 'snack on the go' and is a light look at the scriptures. There is also a deeper level where the readers are challenged to look closer to the scriptures and there are a series of questions to help direct this.
The point of the book is to look at the Letter to the Colossians, and focus on the Supremacy of Christ.
It worked through the book and found the teaching sound. I found the study frustrating as it asked a lot of questions but failed to provide the answers within the book. I found this frustrating, if a young christian read this alone they would not necessarily work out all the answers themselves. In my opinion, this is a mistake.

[Michelle Castaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

He is Enough by Asheritah Ciuciu is a six week Bible study on Colossians. This book is set up as an easy to follow guide that will take you through a reverent examination of Colossians. I think this Bible study works well for new believers and for believers that need a fresh look at Christ's sufficiency in our lives. It also works well to do with children and a family. What I like best about this book is the author's absolute sincerity. Ms Ciuciu's heart to seek after God shines through in her writing. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to draw closer and depend more upon God. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher. These opinions are entirely my own.

[Vnunez-Ms_luv2read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great 6 week study book on Colossians. Good book for all. Very easy to follow. I recommend highly. Would love to see other study guides for other Books in the Bible.Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of this book. Although I received the book in this manner, it did not affect my opinion of this book nor my review.

[MaryAnn Bell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Living in the Fullness of Jesus (A Study in Colossians)

ASHERITAH CIUCIU


Discover the Secret to a Full Life

We live in a world of scarcity. We say, “I don't have enough time… maybe when we have more money… if only I had a little more help…” But Scripture says if we have Jesus, we have enough.

In this 6-week study of Colossians, Asheritah Ciuciu leads readers to discover the life-altering importance of Jesus' sufficiency and sovereignty. And you don't need hours a day to enjoy this Bible Study. Each day's study contains two paths:

Snack on the Go: a bite-size morsel of truth to chew on throughout your busy day
FEAST: a dig-deep guide to maximizing the “meat” you're getting out of your Bible study
PLUS! a supplemental "Serving and Leading" section that includes service challenges for making theory a reality
You can enjoy this study in whatever way works best for you. Discover the joy and freedom that abounds when we know deep in our hearts that Jesus truly is enough.



My Thoughts: I am always looking for good Bible studies. This is a great study in the book of Colossians focusing on the sufficiency and sovereignty of Jesus. This study is well done, easy to work with. It can be done alone or in a group; it's all up to the reader. There isn't a lot of overwhelming work to do, it's just right. It comes from a publisher you can trust: Moody Publishers, so you can't go wrong with this one.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"He is Enough" is a 6-week Bible study of Colossians. Each week started with a brief introduction and then five days of study. The author worked her way verse-by-verse through Colossians. For each day, she started with some commentary and has you create a prayer based off a verse, read the day's verses, and write down your observations. She then asked reading comprehension questions about what a word might mean or which words were repeated or how a passage was similar to another verse. She then asked you to think about what the verses meant to the original audience and what the main idea is. She also has you come up with a personal application that is specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time bound. She ended by prompting you to worship God with a specific song or activity.

Basically, she teaches how to do an in-depth Bible study, including teaching you to go to online sources to do word studies or look up what a commentary might say about a verse. But she did include insights and commentary in the book, so she doesn't just leave it up to you to come up with the answers. I'd recommend this study, especially to anyone who wants to learn how to do similar Bible study on their own.

I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this authors book for Christmas, and the book Full, but this study left me with some things I would have liked done differently. The study is aimed more for new Christians, but as my group agreed, even those in a different season in their walk can benefit from some things. One of the things that I did not like was having to access and research other sources in order to get what I wanted in the study. She did say in the introduction that there would be several different layers in order to do the study, but I like to have more of the history, definitions, and analysis actually in the text, not having to go to google to find it. The pace is very slow, but that helps to really understand the text, but again, I felt that I did not get much more into the text from her workbook. Depending on what you want in a study, this could be the perfect fit for you, but for me, it missed the mark for what I wanted.

[Amy Harris · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like the slow pace of the study and really unpacking the verses, but I felt like it was geared more towards a group Bible study and I was doing it independently. I stopped about half way through the questions and just finished reading Colossians and read over the introductory material for each week.

[Sydney Maxwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

At times the questions were super confusing and a bit too in depth for me, buttttt I feel like I really learned how to study scripture in a more creative way using the FEAST method. Major themes are unity in the church & renewal in Christ. Lots of good opportunities for reflection in this study.

[Sydney Maxwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

At times the questions were super confusing and a bit too in depth for me, buttttt | feel like I really learned how to study scripture in a more creative way using the FEAST method. Major themes are unity in the church & renewal in Christ. Lots of good opportunities for reflection in this study.

[AddyF · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent Bible study through the book of Colossians. Highly recommended.

[Claudia Book Lover · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very thorough Study of Colossians. Really enjoyed this in my bible study, would recommend as a group study not an individual one, i think you get more insight and help in it as a group.

[Diana Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great in-depth study of the book of Colossians. It's sectioned into a study each day, either a quick portion or the option to take more time. I learned a lot!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book study of Colossians. Highly recommend!