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The Essence of Joy
The scents of Christmas invite our imaginations into the holiday season. What emotions flood your heart when the holiday aromas waft your way? Did you know:
• Many favorite holiday scents like cinnamon, citrus, and cinnamon are found in the Bible?
• There is a rich heart connection attached to many of the plant essences found in Scripture?
• Myrrh is such an important essence, we can follow its trail from Genesis to Revelation with many significant stops along the way?
• Women of the Bible have personal encounters with God bringing aromas of His love and joy into their lives?
• Palm branches are an important part of Biblical celebrations beginning in Genesis and ending in the ultimate beach party around the Crystal Sea? (Christmas at the beach, anyone?)
In The Essence of Joy you’ll meet women of the Bible and contemporary women like you and me who will encourage you to discover the refreshing essence of a life lived in the presence of Jesus. Let JOY fill your heart with the aromas of His nativity.
• Many favorite holiday scents like cinnamon, citrus, and cinnamon are found in the Bible?
• There is a rich heart connection attached to many of the plant essences found in Scripture?
• Myrrh is such an important essence, we can follow its trail from Genesis to Revelation with many significant stops along the way?
• Women of the Bible have personal encounters with God bringing aromas of His love and joy into their lives?
• Palm branches are an important part of Biblical celebrations beginning in Genesis and ending in the ultimate beach party around the Crystal Sea? (Christmas at the beach, anyone?)
In The Essence of Joy you’ll meet women of the Bible and contemporary women like you and me who will encourage you to discover the refreshing essence of a life lived in the presence of Jesus. Let JOY fill your heart with the aromas of His nativity.
- GenresDevotionalChristmas
194 pages, Paperback
Published October 12, 2017
About the author
Lynn U. Watson
7 books662 followersAward-winning author, Lynn U. Watson is the great-great-granddaughter of a baron from Southwest Germany. From stories whispered down generations to the vibrant threads of her own life, Lynn's journey is a testament to creativity and compassion. Nurtured by her grandmother's love of needlework, Lynn built a thriving custom clothing business, and with her husband, Steve, they created The Lynn'n Butterfly Collection (cross-stitch designs). In 2007, Lynn became a certified reflexologist, opening Footsteps in Eden, a haven where she uses touch therapy and prayer to relax her clients. She combines her passions and heritage Stepping through Time Stitching Stories of Faith. Lynn, Steve, and their feline overlord, Jasmine, call Bartlett, Tennessee home.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
March 16, 2018
This was a very unique devotional, actually it is centered on the Christmas season especially the scents of Christmas. I know that scents are powerful, enough that can cause people to have allergic reactions to bringing up a fond memory or even a taste. Christmas at my house always has a certain scent, in fact all the Christmas’s I remember have a certain scent, bringing to mind Christmas’s past and looking forward to Christmas present or future. This devotional takes aromas that we often associate with the holiday season and teaches us more about them in the following ways: a fictional story, where in scripture it is mentioned, a Biblical story about a woman’s experience with the deeper meaning, and fun facts about the aroma, and something for the reader to do.
This is a devotional that will be sitting on my coffee table especially during the holidays to be read again, browsed through, and to be kept as a lovely keepsake. On another note, I liked the handmade looking cover.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
This is a devotional that will be sitting on my coffee table especially during the holidays to be read again, browsed through, and to be kept as a lovely keepsake. On another note, I liked the handmade looking cover.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
March 3, 2018
The Essence of Joy by Lynn Y. Watson is a remarkable devotional book. It is second in the Cinnamah-Brosia Inspirational Collection, with The Essence of Courage being first in the series. Although definitely connected to the first, The Essence of Joy can be read as a stand-alone. Included in the book are a profile of Cinnamah-Brosia (a fictional character in the book), a cast of characters with a short explanation as to who they are in relation to the story, and a fictional news article all of which help to link the books and keep the fictional parts of the book more clear. Using nine different scents and spices that are mentioned in the Bible, the author gives readers a unique way of relating these aromas to the story of the Nativity and the lives of women and situations, past and present. Within each chapter there are several sections including, a fictional story about C-B and her friends, the use of the essence in scripture, a devotion about a woman from the scripture, and some fun facts about the essence. Throughout the book as well, there are practical ways that readers can become more familiar with the scents and with the principle being discussed, for example, singing a carol at the top of your lungs to let the world know your joy is found in Christ or perhaps making a scrapbook purse with two pennies inside to remind us of the joy that comes in freely giving out of the richness we have in Christ. The stories presented are ones of redemption, restoration, and reconciliation as well as ones of answered prayer and the gift of salvation. Although this book is geared to Christmas, it is one that readers can enjoy any time of the year, as it has uplifting stories, scriptures, and devotional thoughts that remind us to find our joy in the presence of the Lord and to join with others in celebration of the King of kings, Jesus Christ. I am looking forward to the next book in the collection, The Essence of Love.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
March 8, 2018
This book was quite different from anything I have read before. I struggled at first trying to understand how the book was laid out. As I began to read more, a light bulb came on. This was going to be a book that would help bring joy back to my life. The different fragrances explained in the book was interesting and I thought it was informative. Smells can bring back memories that are wonderful to remember. In the Bible I have read lots of times about myrrh but never really thought much about it.
I did enjoy the stories that were shared about different people and their experiences with miracles, forgiveness and joy. One particular story really stood out to me. It was the story about forgiveness. I related to it because I was abused as a child. It has been the hardest thing to overcome. I loved how the story showed how the mother was desperate to receive forgiveness from her daughter. It reminds me of how much we want to be forgiven by God. He forgives quickly, but we sometimes don’t believe it and spiral out of control.
Peppermint is my favorite flavor next to lemon. Everything about peppermint gives me a sense of calm. I love its aroma and taste. It reminds me of a time I was at my Aunt Ida’s place. One Saturday she said she was going to make homemade peppermint ice cream. I had never had it before and with one taste, I knew this would be my favorite ice cream. It is hard to find except at Christmas time . But the essence of peppermint is easy to attain. It helps you to breathe when you have a cold and calms you when you need it. Each personal story ties into a fragrance that enhances a story found in the Bible. I liked how the author was able to relate different fragrances to people like the woman at the well and the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. It is a very informative book and has scriptures that you can study on to coincide with the different fragrances. Overall I liked the book and learned a great deal about fragrances and what they are used for,
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I did enjoy the stories that were shared about different people and their experiences with miracles, forgiveness and joy. One particular story really stood out to me. It was the story about forgiveness. I related to it because I was abused as a child. It has been the hardest thing to overcome. I loved how the story showed how the mother was desperate to receive forgiveness from her daughter. It reminds me of how much we want to be forgiven by God. He forgives quickly, but we sometimes don’t believe it and spiral out of control.
Peppermint is my favorite flavor next to lemon. Everything about peppermint gives me a sense of calm. I love its aroma and taste. It reminds me of a time I was at my Aunt Ida’s place. One Saturday she said she was going to make homemade peppermint ice cream. I had never had it before and with one taste, I knew this would be my favorite ice cream. It is hard to find except at Christmas time . But the essence of peppermint is easy to attain. It helps you to breathe when you have a cold and calms you when you need it. Each personal story ties into a fragrance that enhances a story found in the Bible. I liked how the author was able to relate different fragrances to people like the woman at the well and the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. It is a very informative book and has scriptures that you can study on to coincide with the different fragrances. Overall I liked the book and learned a great deal about fragrances and what they are used for,
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
March 11, 2018
GOD gave us 5 senses to enjoy what life has to offer. This book explores the aromas of Jesus nativity. Each chapter is based on one scent of Christmas. Lynn Watson used Bible passages, short stories and interesting facts to describe each scent.
I learned something about Peppermint. I wasn't aware the red on Peppermint represents the blood of Christ. It was an interesting tidbit of information.
I enjoyed each chapter and the way she presented it with suggestions to use the scents at home.
I received this free to review.
Giveaway
c89e3974-65d0-482f-9642-fb2e19743a0f
To celebrate her tour, Lynn is giving away a grand prize of a “Choose Joy” hand made necklace, a “Cups of Joy” (adult coloring book) + set of 24 prismacolor colored pencils, a “Choose Joy Today” stamped silver-plated teaspoon,
flower Seeds, raspberry tea (it’s in the Cinnamah-Brosia story in the “Mint/Giving” section), a “Choose Joy” tote bag, and a signed copy of “The Essence of Joy”!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/ca47
About the Author
LynnSmall
Lynn Watson combines many years’ experience in women’s ministry, love of essential oils, and her passion for God’s word to bring her readers freshly inspired encouragement for their walk with Jesus. Her devotional, The Essence of Courage, was recognized as a ‘must read’ by regional publishing industry leaders. Married since 1973, Lynn and Steve have filled their Bartlett, Tennessee home with handmade treasures and lots of love for family, especially their five beautiful (of course) grandchildren. Aromas of freshly baked bread often fill Lynn’s kitchen. Jasmine, her tuxedo kitty, enjoys sleeping in Lynn’s lap while she writes.
I learned something about Peppermint. I wasn't aware the red on Peppermint represents the blood of Christ. It was an interesting tidbit of information.
I enjoyed each chapter and the way she presented it with suggestions to use the scents at home.
I received this free to review.
Giveaway
c89e3974-65d0-482f-9642-fb2e19743a0f
To celebrate her tour, Lynn is giving away a grand prize of a “Choose Joy” hand made necklace, a “Cups of Joy” (adult coloring book) + set of 24 prismacolor colored pencils, a “Choose Joy Today” stamped silver-plated teaspoon,
flower Seeds, raspberry tea (it’s in the Cinnamah-Brosia story in the “Mint/Giving” section), a “Choose Joy” tote bag, and a signed copy of “The Essence of Joy”!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/ca47
About the Author
LynnSmall
Lynn Watson combines many years’ experience in women’s ministry, love of essential oils, and her passion for God’s word to bring her readers freshly inspired encouragement for their walk with Jesus. Her devotional, The Essence of Courage, was recognized as a ‘must read’ by regional publishing industry leaders. Married since 1973, Lynn and Steve have filled their Bartlett, Tennessee home with handmade treasures and lots of love for family, especially their five beautiful (of course) grandchildren. Aromas of freshly baked bread often fill Lynn’s kitchen. Jasmine, her tuxedo kitty, enjoys sleeping in Lynn’s lap while she writes.
February 27, 2018
This book is unique and I haven't read others in this format. It gives a snippet of a story and then Bible verses that talk about a particular scent associated with Christmas. I liked how it told what the scent they are going to be talking about, what oil is diffusing, what snack they are eating, what song is playing, and what the verse of the day is going to be. It also gives "fun facts" and "Your turn" at the end of each section to help apply the ideas in your own life. I felt a little lost with the story snippets as I felt like I was just dropped in and was missing vital information. If I had read the first book (Essence of Courage) I may have not felt as lost. I did read the "Cinnamah-Brosia's Friends" section at the back of the book, but it mostly just confused me more. I also found the stories to feel like bullet points about what happened and didn't feel like I was actually there experiencing it. I also wondered who was telling the stories as it referred to 'us' or 'we'. I learned some interesting things about some of these scents that I did not think about before. It would be a nice addition to your Bible study during the Christmas season.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
November 28, 2017
I don’t know much about essential oils, other than the power of peppermint oil to keep me alert. I keep a diffuser in my vehicle on road trips, and a little bottle on my desk. A few whiffs perk me up much better than caffeine.
I was excited to learn how essential oils tie into the Bible, especially the Christmas story. This book by Lynn U. Watson has a very interesting premise and a pretty design, inside and out.
What I enjoyed most were the fun facts about each essential oil, especially how they relate to biblical stories. For example, myrrh is mentioned specifically in the stories of Abraham, Moses, Esther, the lovers in the Song of Solomon, and in the Christmas story. I also learned about how to use the oil for meditative purposes.
So many interesting facts about these oils: myrrh, cedar, frankincense, rose, mint, fig, cinnamon, citron, and palm. I plan to experiment with a new diffuser and oil burner, using what I’ve learned in this book.
I like her idea of including a short, fictional account in each chapter. Her personal stories are engaging. Though the chapters could use a bit more cohesion, I learned enough new facts in each chapter to make up the difference.
I received a free review copy of this book from the author–thank you!
I was excited to learn how essential oils tie into the Bible, especially the Christmas story. This book by Lynn U. Watson has a very interesting premise and a pretty design, inside and out.
What I enjoyed most were the fun facts about each essential oil, especially how they relate to biblical stories. For example, myrrh is mentioned specifically in the stories of Abraham, Moses, Esther, the lovers in the Song of Solomon, and in the Christmas story. I also learned about how to use the oil for meditative purposes.
So many interesting facts about these oils: myrrh, cedar, frankincense, rose, mint, fig, cinnamon, citron, and palm. I plan to experiment with a new diffuser and oil burner, using what I’ve learned in this book.
I like her idea of including a short, fictional account in each chapter. Her personal stories are engaging. Though the chapters could use a bit more cohesion, I learned enough new facts in each chapter to make up the difference.
I received a free review copy of this book from the author–thank you!
March 5, 2018
I do not know a lot about essential oils, so from this aspect I learned a lot. Which aromas serve which purpose, and even a little biblical history on them. I thought this was really interesting to read, and made me consider using essential oils in the future. I know someone who uses them faithfully for multiple reasons, and swears by them. I did chuckle when reading about frankincense and mrryh. I think I just assumed they were only around when Jesus was a young tot!
I also enjoyed the bible verses, and reading suggestions for each day. It was a great way to connect with the Lord, and tied to the topic of each day. I also liked the fun facts presented about each aroma. Like I mentioned, I learned a lot! This is a very educational book. That being said, I wish some of the stories were a little different. A few of them felt a little sporadic, like they didn't flow with the topics very well. BUT...some of them were great and I enjoyed reading them.
Overall I think this is a great educational tool that serves as a good devotional. It is different, and different is good. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I also enjoyed the bible verses, and reading suggestions for each day. It was a great way to connect with the Lord, and tied to the topic of each day. I also liked the fun facts presented about each aroma. Like I mentioned, I learned a lot! This is a very educational book. That being said, I wish some of the stories were a little different. A few of them felt a little sporadic, like they didn't flow with the topics very well. BUT...some of them were great and I enjoyed reading them.
Overall I think this is a great educational tool that serves as a good devotional. It is different, and different is good. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 13, 2018
This inspirational collection is nothing like what I’ve ever read before. Each chapter integrates fictional characters and a fictional story based on true stories with a fruit or aroma of the Christmas season and its associated essence of joy (ie rose is the joy of love, mint is the joy of giving, citron is the joy of legacy), Scripture from the Old and New Testament centered around that specific fruit/aroma along with thoughts for a devotional, another devotional featuring a woman of the Bible who has had some type of experience with the essence associated with that fruit/aroma, fun facts regarding each fruit/aroma, and practical ways to incorporate the essence and fruit/aroma into daily life.
It is an interesting blend of fiction, Scripture, Biblical teaching, devotional, and how-to instructions. I’ll definitely be coming back to this book to let the words sink in deeper. I think I’ll learn a little more about His joy every time. As the author quotes at the beginning of the book from a Gaelic Prayer: “As the hand is made for holding and the eye for seeing, You have fashioned me for joy.”
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher via Celebrate Lit stout. I was not required to to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
It is an interesting blend of fiction, Scripture, Biblical teaching, devotional, and how-to instructions. I’ll definitely be coming back to this book to let the words sink in deeper. I think I’ll learn a little more about His joy every time. As the author quotes at the beginning of the book from a Gaelic Prayer: “As the hand is made for holding and the eye for seeing, You have fashioned me for joy.”
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher via Celebrate Lit stout. I was not required to to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
March 11, 2018
Christmas is my favorite season for many reasons but the most important reason is that we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Leading up to Christmas we celebrate the Advent season. I always try to do some sort of devotional or study during the Advent season to prepare myself for this wonderful time of year. Lynn Watson has written a Advent devotional for women that uses women of the Bible and everyday women like me to help prepare our hearts for this season.
I know you are probably thinking, "Why are you reviewing a Christmas book in March?" Well, is it ever to early to celebrate the birth of our Savior? I don't think it is, in fact I believe we should celebrate his birth, death and resurrection all year long. He came to earth for us, he died for us and he arose for us.
The Essence of Joy will teach us things we didn't know while preparing us for Christmas. I really enjoyed reading this devotional and plan to use it with my children this holiday season.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone."
I know you are probably thinking, "Why are you reviewing a Christmas book in March?" Well, is it ever to early to celebrate the birth of our Savior? I don't think it is, in fact I believe we should celebrate his birth, death and resurrection all year long. He came to earth for us, he died for us and he arose for us.
The Essence of Joy will teach us things we didn't know while preparing us for Christmas. I really enjoyed reading this devotional and plan to use it with my children this holiday season.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone."
March 9, 2018
It's interesting how God works. This week He has put the word joy in front of me over and over, through preaching, through personal bible study and through books.
This book is all about joy. Joy in abiding, joy in forgiveness, joy in giving, joy on integrity. Thoughts on joy wrapped in essential oils, fragrance, and the nativity. Lynn takes various oils and fragrances from bible times and expand on them s with stories, ideas for crafts, scriptures and thoughts to ponder.
I, personally, am not really a big essential oils user, but I do love natural products when possible and know there are many benefits and uses. In spite of that, I enjoyed this short story/devotional and learned some interesting new concepts.
I would certainly recommend this book, especially if you really like essential oils, or are looking for something new and different to read at Christmas to get you focused on the reason for the season.
I received this book courtesy of author and celebrate lit. Ask opinions are my own and I was not asked or required to review positively.
This book is all about joy. Joy in abiding, joy in forgiveness, joy in giving, joy on integrity. Thoughts on joy wrapped in essential oils, fragrance, and the nativity. Lynn takes various oils and fragrances from bible times and expand on them s with stories, ideas for crafts, scriptures and thoughts to ponder.
I, personally, am not really a big essential oils user, but I do love natural products when possible and know there are many benefits and uses. In spite of that, I enjoyed this short story/devotional and learned some interesting new concepts.
I would certainly recommend this book, especially if you really like essential oils, or are looking for something new and different to read at Christmas to get you focused on the reason for the season.
I received this book courtesy of author and celebrate lit. Ask opinions are my own and I was not asked or required to review positively.
March 9, 2018
"The Essence of Joy" by Lynn U. Watson is a book about the scents of Christmas. It is a book of stories that are real about miracles, forgiveness and joy. It also has fun facts about the scents. It has suggestions on what to do to enjoy Christmas more!
I haven't really thought about scents and smells at Christmas before except the smell of a real Christmas tree. Who can't smell peppermints without thinking of candy canes? These are the only two smells I associated with Christmas, but after reading "The Essence of Joy" by Lynn U. Watson I hope next Christmas I will remember to get this book out and see if I can find these scent, might be in a scentsy candle.
I am adding the first book "The Essence of Courage", in this (Inspirational Collection for Women) series to my to be read list as I think it will add to the stories in this book, as these stories are continued in "The Essence of Joy".
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
I haven't really thought about scents and smells at Christmas before except the smell of a real Christmas tree. Who can't smell peppermints without thinking of candy canes? These are the only two smells I associated with Christmas, but after reading "The Essence of Joy" by Lynn U. Watson I hope next Christmas I will remember to get this book out and see if I can find these scent, might be in a scentsy candle.
I am adding the first book "The Essence of Courage", in this (Inspirational Collection for Women) series to my to be read list as I think it will add to the stories in this book, as these stories are continued in "The Essence of Joy".
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
December 1, 2017
I enjoyed The Essence of Joy and can tell it will make a meaningful December/Advent devotional leading up to Christmas. While familiar with many of the verses and essences included in the book, I appreciated Watson's almost chain-reference style of tracing them throughout the Bible.
I haven't read The Essence of Courage, Joy's predecessor, and think it would have been helpful so I'd know the repeat characters' backstories. I read several of the stories in the book but found myself flipping past them as the writing style didn't grab me. Instead, I preferred the overviews and biblical studies of each of the essences and suggestions on how to use them around the home, especially at Christmas.
The book may also be worth revisiting in January if you're thinking of incorporating essential oils into your New Year's resolutions or changing things up around the house.
I received a free copy of the book as part of the blog tour. All opinions are my own.
I haven't read The Essence of Courage, Joy's predecessor, and think it would have been helpful so I'd know the repeat characters' backstories. I read several of the stories in the book but found myself flipping past them as the writing style didn't grab me. Instead, I preferred the overviews and biblical studies of each of the essences and suggestions on how to use them around the home, especially at Christmas.
The book may also be worth revisiting in January if you're thinking of incorporating essential oils into your New Year's resolutions or changing things up around the house.
I received a free copy of the book as part of the blog tour. All opinions are my own.
March 3, 2018
The Essence of Joy is an inspirational volume that is best slowly studied, savored, breathed-in and contemplated. Truly, this is by far one of the most unique and interesting books I have experienced in a long time. A Christian devotional that is fascinating, well-researched, rich in depth and intention; all presented in a highly-specialized format – featuring the fictional characters of Cinnamah-Brosia and her friends from The Coffee Cottage.
Included is a wealth of information about specific plants, essences and fruits which are combined in a way designed to enhance and enrich Christmas/Sukkot holidays but appropriate for year-round enjoyment. This volume would make a lovely gift!
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.
Included is a wealth of information about specific plants, essences and fruits which are combined in a way designed to enhance and enrich Christmas/Sukkot holidays but appropriate for year-round enjoyment. This volume would make a lovely gift!
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.
March 10, 2018
As a person who uses oils this book was very intriguing to me. It was neat to have characters that were more present day gathering in the Coffee Cottage. Then we move to the oils, history biblical and not. It was neat to have such a variety of ways to look at essential oils. I have many of these in my cupboard, and now have a new found appreciation for them. It is amazing to think that many in the Bible used oils that we still use today.
Oils can be beneficial to your life, I recommend reading this book if you are curious about the history of oils in the Bible, and how we can diffuse them in the present day. It is not a how-to on using oils, but will certainly give you a peek into them. I personally plan to use this around the holiday season this coming 2018 season. It will change the meaning of the season and bring a new spirit to it.
March 12, 2018
The Essence of Joy
The book gives history about of different scents, like peppermint for example, that was one thing I found interesting about it. The book would make a good study guide for a Bible class. a lot of references to different verses in the Bible and it encourages to read the Bible. Has some good stories, one I really like was the part about God’s protection. Enjoyed the story about Trevor and how circumstances had him drive a different route that save his life. It is not the kind of book I usually read but did find it interesting and I could tell the author put a lot of work and research into it. I received an complementary copy of the book from the author through Celebrate Lit.
The book gives history about of different scents, like peppermint for example, that was one thing I found interesting about it. The book would make a good study guide for a Bible class. a lot of references to different verses in the Bible and it encourages to read the Bible. Has some good stories, one I really like was the part about God’s protection. Enjoyed the story about Trevor and how circumstances had him drive a different route that save his life. It is not the kind of book I usually read but did find it interesting and I could tell the author put a lot of work and research into it. I received an complementary copy of the book from the author through Celebrate Lit.
March 8, 2018
My review
I found The Essence of Joy to be a unique read that is quite different from any other devotional I have read. There is also a book tilted The Essence of Courage and I think it might have been helpful to read it first. There are little tidbits of a fiction story in each devotional . There is alot of descriptions in this book and they seemed very thorough. Descriptions such as the song playing, the food eaten, and the smells. Very interesting how different smells tie into Scripture. Overall a good unique read. Disclaimer: I was given a complimentary copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions are my honest ones.
March 10, 2018
This is a very unique Inspirational Collection / Devotional that can be read anytime, but I plan to pull it out this Christmas and read again. It is informative on the scents of Christmas, Botanical names, where found, etc. It gives Christmas Carols to sing , scripture, stories that will bless your heart. It brings to life the joyous season. I really enjoyed this and it will grace my table this Christmas season.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
March 7, 2018
This is a nonfiction book based on stories of the Bible and the aromas and fragrances mentioned therein. This has stories told by certain women and how they relate to bible stories. Much of this is based on the nativity. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
June 2, 2018
It was hard to get into, but it's a very unique devotional.
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