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Savoring Single
Why savoring single? Because you were meant to enjoy it!
Finding purpose, knowing love, and experiencing adventure aren’t reserved solely for the married girls! You can enjoy a full and vibrant life even while being single. It’s also a perfect time to partner with what God wants to develop in you through this once-in-a-lifetime part of your journey! Girl, being single is okay. There is a purpose for it, and it won’t last forever. So savor it!
Finding purpose, knowing love, and experiencing adventure aren’t reserved solely for the married girls! You can enjoy a full and vibrant life even while being single. It’s also a perfect time to partner with what God wants to develop in you through this once-in-a-lifetime part of your journey! Girl, being single is okay. There is a purpose for it, and it won’t last forever. So savor it!
166 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 7, 2017
43 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Black
4 books5 followersMy name is Shelley Black.
I am in my 30’s. Never married. No kids. I just knew I’d be the girl to get married young and have kids young and…well, I’m not the “young” I thought I would be. So, I let my life settle into a holding pattern waiting on that one dream to meet Mr. Right and get married.
Even though I was raised by Christian parents and grew up involved in the local church, I became broken because I identified with my singleness and it changed my perception of God. Because of all those years that my hope was deferred, I felt rejected by Him, so lacked the ability to trust Him. My heart got cold and hard and though I was still a “good Christian girl” I was really hurting.
Through the Word, prayer, worship and discipleship He has healed my heart of so many things through the years and has brought me to a place where I am now #savoringsingle. I gotta tell you, it’s so much better from the perspective of hope and trust! There’s a way to be genuinely happy, find purpose & enjoy this wonderful life we have….in every season!
I am in my 30’s. Never married. No kids. I just knew I’d be the girl to get married young and have kids young and…well, I’m not the “young” I thought I would be. So, I let my life settle into a holding pattern waiting on that one dream to meet Mr. Right and get married.
Even though I was raised by Christian parents and grew up involved in the local church, I became broken because I identified with my singleness and it changed my perception of God. Because of all those years that my hope was deferred, I felt rejected by Him, so lacked the ability to trust Him. My heart got cold and hard and though I was still a “good Christian girl” I was really hurting.
Through the Word, prayer, worship and discipleship He has healed my heart of so many things through the years and has brought me to a place where I am now #savoringsingle. I gotta tell you, it’s so much better from the perspective of hope and trust! There’s a way to be genuinely happy, find purpose & enjoy this wonderful life we have….in every season!
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 28, 2018
A wonderfully encouraging read! I’m truly grateful that I was given the chance to read and review Savoring Single by Shelley Black. To be honest, it wasn’t the kind of book I’d usually find myself dying to read, but when I was contacted about reviewing it, the simply lovely cover enticed me. And I was curious to know if a book like this could actually help me in my season of life.
I was somewhat surprised, and delighted, to find that it did! I think some readers have referred to Savoring Single as “refreshing”, and I so agree! It encouraged me to be okay with me and thrive in life right now. It gave me hope for the future. It did not mock my desire to be married, but sweetly reminded me that marriage is not the goal and God can do beautiful and wonderful things in my life in this moment!
Each chapter started with a prayer. Shelley Black shared her personal experiences and stories; her struggles and growth. There were lots of Scripture verses and references throughout.
She talked about having an intimate relationship with God, going on adventures, pursuing your passions, friendship, idols, boundaries, and sexuality. One of the main themes of the book was God’s adoration of you and His plan that you should have a close, personal, and fulfilling relationship with Him. You are His dearly loved daughter! And though He may very well have marriage and a man in His plans for you, He longs for you to know His perfect love for you and His place as your eternal Bridegroom. The truth is, we won’t be satisfied and filled until we let Him fill us.
Shelley Black has a lot of practical and heartfelt wisdom and ideas, I feel. It was just … encouraging! Reviving. Fun. Thoughtful. Deep. Sweet. I enjoyed returning to the pages of Savoring Single each day.
Not to say I agreed with everything or found everything to be absolutely helpful. I can’t say that about any Christian Living book I’ve read! The chapter in Savoring Single on finances didn’t resound with me as much as the rest of the book, but that’s okay. It still had some helpful points. Shelley Black definitely has a different personality than me. She’s a go-getter, all about big adventures, and seems passionate about having lots of money to use for God’s kingdom. I suspect my story’s meant to play out a little differently, but I can appreciate her aspirations and zeal, and the beauty of her own powerful, unique story!
Overall, Savoring Single was a fabulous book. I highly recommend to women in the season of singleness. It was inspiring and hopeful. And I just want to share it with any sisters who have struggled like I have, so perhaps they can understand more fully that waiting on God’s timing for marriage is beautiful. And learn to thrive in life right now. Know that they are not lost or behind in the journey. And there is hope and passion and joy. And they are completely loved, here and now. There is so much beauty in store for you in this season, and every season! Love being right where God has you.
Shelley Black truly is a beautiful soul and an inspiration to me. Can’t wait to share this book!
In the end of Savoring Single, it encourages you to do a study on love, and there is a list of all the Bible verses talking about love. I look forward to spending some time pondering true love! ^_^
I received a copy of Savoring Single from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Originally posted on Lady Grace: A Quiet & Gentle Spirit - https://ladygracesite.wordpress.com/2...
I was somewhat surprised, and delighted, to find that it did! I think some readers have referred to Savoring Single as “refreshing”, and I so agree! It encouraged me to be okay with me and thrive in life right now. It gave me hope for the future. It did not mock my desire to be married, but sweetly reminded me that marriage is not the goal and God can do beautiful and wonderful things in my life in this moment!
Each chapter started with a prayer. Shelley Black shared her personal experiences and stories; her struggles and growth. There were lots of Scripture verses and references throughout.
She talked about having an intimate relationship with God, going on adventures, pursuing your passions, friendship, idols, boundaries, and sexuality. One of the main themes of the book was God’s adoration of you and His plan that you should have a close, personal, and fulfilling relationship with Him. You are His dearly loved daughter! And though He may very well have marriage and a man in His plans for you, He longs for you to know His perfect love for you and His place as your eternal Bridegroom. The truth is, we won’t be satisfied and filled until we let Him fill us.
Shelley Black has a lot of practical and heartfelt wisdom and ideas, I feel. It was just … encouraging! Reviving. Fun. Thoughtful. Deep. Sweet. I enjoyed returning to the pages of Savoring Single each day.
Not to say I agreed with everything or found everything to be absolutely helpful. I can’t say that about any Christian Living book I’ve read! The chapter in Savoring Single on finances didn’t resound with me as much as the rest of the book, but that’s okay. It still had some helpful points. Shelley Black definitely has a different personality than me. She’s a go-getter, all about big adventures, and seems passionate about having lots of money to use for God’s kingdom. I suspect my story’s meant to play out a little differently, but I can appreciate her aspirations and zeal, and the beauty of her own powerful, unique story!
Overall, Savoring Single was a fabulous book. I highly recommend to women in the season of singleness. It was inspiring and hopeful. And I just want to share it with any sisters who have struggled like I have, so perhaps they can understand more fully that waiting on God’s timing for marriage is beautiful. And learn to thrive in life right now. Know that they are not lost or behind in the journey. And there is hope and passion and joy. And they are completely loved, here and now. There is so much beauty in store for you in this season, and every season! Love being right where God has you.
Shelley Black truly is a beautiful soul and an inspiration to me. Can’t wait to share this book!
In the end of Savoring Single, it encourages you to do a study on love, and there is a list of all the Bible verses talking about love. I look forward to spending some time pondering true love! ^_^
I received a copy of Savoring Single from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Originally posted on Lady Grace: A Quiet & Gentle Spirit - https://ladygracesite.wordpress.com/2...
May 9, 2022
Yes, I'm married and still reading books on singleness because I still have a heart for singles and want to help my single sisters in Christ find amazing resources for living a life for God.
This book was a girl-to-girl book. It felt like you were sitting down with a good friend who was just sharing her heart and what God had taught her. It made the whole book so enjoyable to read.
Black shares everything from lessons she learned, biblical truth, the practical advice. Some of the things seemed rather basic and simplistic, while at other times she was super insightful with her thoughts.
I will say that there was only one thing I took issue within this book. In a section dealing with sexual purity, she gave a list of practical ways to help you keep yourself on the straight and narrow. Most of it was solid advice not only from a practical standpoint but also for staying above reproach. However, the last item on the list was not even to hang out with guys. Perhaps the author meant something specific rather than general. I think that women can reap a lot of benefits from healthy, non-romantic relationships with their brothers in Christ.
Black deals head-on with so many things in ways that I think will both bless and encourage the single girl's heart. She does it in such a positive and encouraging tone without being fake that I think many will come away blessed.
Content note: There are two chapters that deal with sex and sexual purity. Black covers it for both girls who are virgins and those who are no longer virgins. Being a virgin herself, I'm not sure how helpful those who aren't will find her section talking to them. However, she covers the whole topic with tact, straightforwardness, and a lot of grace.
This book was a girl-to-girl book. It felt like you were sitting down with a good friend who was just sharing her heart and what God had taught her. It made the whole book so enjoyable to read.
Black shares everything from lessons she learned, biblical truth, the practical advice. Some of the things seemed rather basic and simplistic, while at other times she was super insightful with her thoughts.
I will say that there was only one thing I took issue within this book. In a section dealing with sexual purity, she gave a list of practical ways to help you keep yourself on the straight and narrow. Most of it was solid advice not only from a practical standpoint but also for staying above reproach. However, the last item on the list was not even to hang out with guys. Perhaps the author meant something specific rather than general. I think that women can reap a lot of benefits from healthy, non-romantic relationships with their brothers in Christ.
Black deals head-on with so many things in ways that I think will both bless and encourage the single girl's heart. She does it in such a positive and encouraging tone without being fake that I think many will come away blessed.
Content note: There are two chapters that deal with sex and sexual purity. Black covers it for both girls who are virgins and those who are no longer virgins. Being a virgin herself, I'm not sure how helpful those who aren't will find her section talking to them. However, she covers the whole topic with tact, straightforwardness, and a lot of grace.
February 21, 2018
I’ll be honest here, singleness is not a topic I really dwell on much. I’m eighteen and very happily… me. I am very well aware this might change but until then, I’m pretty happy.
So why did I pick up a book on singleness? Well, honestly I just enjoy most none fiction.
And this one did not disappoint me.
For the first few chapters, Miss Black did focus mainly on singleness and how to be content. She gave practical advice on how to rededicate that time to God. She showed how to use your singleness to pull your closer to God, and how the things you learn now will apply to your whole life.
My favorite part of the whole book was the section about purity. The author did it in such a way it really was not uncomfortable, and she really showed the reasons behind it. Also, she covered mental purity, which I appreciated so much. It really got me to thinking about way's I can work on making my thought patterns purer.
Overall, this was a very thought-provoking book on singleness.
I would not recommend this for anyone under 15 due to the mature themes discussed.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
So why did I pick up a book on singleness? Well, honestly I just enjoy most none fiction.
And this one did not disappoint me.
For the first few chapters, Miss Black did focus mainly on singleness and how to be content. She gave practical advice on how to rededicate that time to God. She showed how to use your singleness to pull your closer to God, and how the things you learn now will apply to your whole life.
My favorite part of the whole book was the section about purity. The author did it in such a way it really was not uncomfortable, and she really showed the reasons behind it. Also, she covered mental purity, which I appreciated so much. It really got me to thinking about way's I can work on making my thought patterns purer.
Overall, this was a very thought-provoking book on singleness.
I would not recommend this for anyone under 15 due to the mature themes discussed.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 24, 2018
I had the privilege of reading Savoring Single by Shelley Black and participating in its blog tour. I rate my reading experience 4/5 stars meaning "I really liked it." If I was going into half-stars I might rate it 3.5.
I loved author's writing style. It's personal, conversational, and makes the pages turn fast and smooth. The book cover shows a pair of hands nursing a cozy mug of coffee while the young lady engages in deep, meaningful conversation with another young lady. Okay, that's not entirely true. I imagined the "engaging in deep, meaningful conversation with another lady" part. But it's an accurate representation of the tone of voice I imagine the author to use, and of the atmosphere she exudes through her written words.
On a more negative note, Shelley used Bible translations that I'm not particularly fond of. Some of them are very liberal in their interpretation of the original Word. They aren't necessarily bad... Let me put it this way; if I hadn't been on a schedule with a deadline, I would have read a more trusted translation alongside it and would have been more faithful to look up some of the many Bible references. At times I felt like the author was flattering the reader when it would have been more appropriate to exalt God.
At other times, I felt like she exalted the Lord very appropriately. And to its credit, the book boasts a good many articulate quotes that express truths that resonated strongly with me.
I really like the chapters about maturing your finances, pursuing adventure, developing a skill, and developing discipleship - all points about engaging in an enriched life in the season of singleness. Again, Shelley put it so well:
There you have my thoughts on Savoring Single. To summarize, I liked it and would recommend it to Christians who are exploring singleness from a biblical perspective. As with any book, please be faithful to test its ideas against the Word of God. I trust that's something Shelley herself would say "amen" to.
A NOTE ON CONTENT
Violence:
-None
Sexual Immorality:
-The book mentions masturbation briefly and only by name. The book itself is not immoral, nor are the author's views. In my opinion, she deals with it very gracefully.
-The book talks about lust with the purpose of addressing it in biblical and practical ways.
-The book mentions rape when retelling the biblical story of Joseph in Egypt.
Magic:
-None
Offensive Language:
-None
Other Concerns:
-The book talks about sex and sexual desires of the unmarried. The author addresses the awkward topic with honesty and in a clean, respectable way.
I loved author's writing style. It's personal, conversational, and makes the pages turn fast and smooth. The book cover shows a pair of hands nursing a cozy mug of coffee while the young lady engages in deep, meaningful conversation with another young lady. Okay, that's not entirely true. I imagined the "engaging in deep, meaningful conversation with another lady" part. But it's an accurate representation of the tone of voice I imagine the author to use, and of the atmosphere she exudes through her written words.
On a more negative note, Shelley used Bible translations that I'm not particularly fond of. Some of them are very liberal in their interpretation of the original Word. They aren't necessarily bad... Let me put it this way; if I hadn't been on a schedule with a deadline, I would have read a more trusted translation alongside it and would have been more faithful to look up some of the many Bible references. At times I felt like the author was flattering the reader when it would have been more appropriate to exalt God.
"Your world needs you and the gifts God is cultivating in you."
At other times, I felt like she exalted the Lord very appropriately. And to its credit, the book boasts a good many articulate quotes that express truths that resonated strongly with me.
"You can spend time without quality but you cannot spend quality without time."
I really like the chapters about maturing your finances, pursuing adventure, developing a skill, and developing discipleship - all points about engaging in an enriched life in the season of singleness. Again, Shelley put it so well:
If we think our best is ahead of us in marriage, career or success or even behind us in memories of days gone by or that time when everything seemed perfect, we will miss the treasure
of our todays. You have such a treasure in this moment, that you won’t have in the next.
There you have my thoughts on Savoring Single. To summarize, I liked it and would recommend it to Christians who are exploring singleness from a biblical perspective. As with any book, please be faithful to test its ideas against the Word of God. I trust that's something Shelley herself would say "amen" to.
A NOTE ON CONTENT
Violence:
-None
Sexual Immorality:
-The book mentions masturbation briefly and only by name. The book itself is not immoral, nor are the author's views. In my opinion, she deals with it very gracefully.
-The book talks about lust with the purpose of addressing it in biblical and practical ways.
-The book mentions rape when retelling the biblical story of Joseph in Egypt.
Magic:
-None
Offensive Language:
-None
Other Concerns:
-The book talks about sex and sexual desires of the unmarried. The author addresses the awkward topic with honesty and in a clean, respectable way.
April 25, 2018
-Had some really great tips, especially in the later, more practically-oriented chapters. I definitely want to apply what she said about seeking out adventure, getting out of the house more, and intentionally filling my calendar.
-The writing wasn't great. It kind of wandered all over the place, rambled and got repetitive.
-Overall, though, it inspired me, which is what's most important.
-The writing wasn't great. It kind of wandered all over the place, rambled and got repetitive.
-Overall, though, it inspired me, which is what's most important.
August 16, 2024
Savoring Single was a great read! It was written in an easy-to-read way and I liked how she was honest about her struggles with singleness and how her viewpoint changed. Such a wonderful message about about how no matter what season we are in, our relationship with Christ matters the most. Nothing else will ever satisfy the desires of our heart.
A slight annoyance I had was some of the translations used for quotes.
A slight annoyance I had was some of the translations used for quotes.
April 1, 2018
And I know you're thinking, "Chloe is reading a nonfiction book, what is the world coming to?"
Well, you know what? I felt a nudge to jump at the chance to read it, so here we go.
This is not one of those 'try this method to catch his eye' or 'top 5 ways to get out of the friend-zone' kind of books, and for that, I was very glad!
Savoring Single is a remarkable balance between deep and meaningful, yet still light enough for just about anyone to enjoy, no matter what their reading preference is (though, I probably wouldn't recommend it to those under 15-16, due to the mature themes that are addressed).
Shelley's style of writing is such that it feels like a letter to the reader- very down-to-earth and personable, very refreshing!
Everything is in order, starting from accepting singleness, to finding purpose in singleness, to maturing a relationship with Christ.
This was definitely not an 'on the whim' book. Each chapter is organized and deeply thought out. Chapters 4, 5, and 6 were the most thought-provoking for me.
It is not a long read, page-wise, but I needed a lot of time to mull over her words.
All in all, I give it a 4/5 stars!
I received a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review
Well, you know what? I felt a nudge to jump at the chance to read it, so here we go.
This is not one of those 'try this method to catch his eye' or 'top 5 ways to get out of the friend-zone' kind of books, and for that, I was very glad!
Savoring Single is a remarkable balance between deep and meaningful, yet still light enough for just about anyone to enjoy, no matter what their reading preference is (though, I probably wouldn't recommend it to those under 15-16, due to the mature themes that are addressed).
Shelley's style of writing is such that it feels like a letter to the reader- very down-to-earth and personable, very refreshing!
Everything is in order, starting from accepting singleness, to finding purpose in singleness, to maturing a relationship with Christ.
This was definitely not an 'on the whim' book. Each chapter is organized and deeply thought out. Chapters 4, 5, and 6 were the most thought-provoking for me.
It is not a long read, page-wise, but I needed a lot of time to mull over her words.
All in all, I give it a 4/5 stars!
I received a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review
January 17, 2018
Savoring Single is truly perfect! From front to back, the author Shelley Black gives us girls the truth that we all needed to hear. Its like reading a book from a big sister… our sister in Christ. I knew I was going to love this book when before you start anything Shelley prays for you, I mean how awesome is that!!
I’ve read books about being single before, and honestly few have measured up. I often come away feeling my whole life is about preparing for marriage, and while that’s a good goal, its not my life purpose. Shelley really lays out that our whole lives boil down to our relationship with God, anything after that is just icing on the cupcake ;) I love the fact that the author encourages us to fully live life right now!
Some quotes from this book I love :
"How you live single matters just as much as how you will live married! I'm going to say that one more time, just for effect.....How you live single matters just as much as how you will live married."
"We must identify ourselves with who we now are in Christ, so that anything that proves contrary would raise caution in our hearts not to partake."
I’ve read books about being single before, and honestly few have measured up. I often come away feeling my whole life is about preparing for marriage, and while that’s a good goal, its not my life purpose. Shelley really lays out that our whole lives boil down to our relationship with God, anything after that is just icing on the cupcake ;) I love the fact that the author encourages us to fully live life right now!
Some quotes from this book I love :
"How you live single matters just as much as how you will live married! I'm going to say that one more time, just for effect.....How you live single matters just as much as how you will live married."
"We must identify ourselves with who we now are in Christ, so that anything that proves contrary would raise caution in our hearts not to partake."
April 7, 2018
I've read other books for single girls and thank goodness, this is nothing like those! (light-years better, trust me!) This is my second time reading Savoring Single, and I continued to learn and grow even more this time around. I think it could be aptly renamed, Savoring Life. Yes, the application throughout these pages is made for single girls, but my oh my, the areas it covers are things that people deal with in all stages of life! The focus is not on being single, oh boohoo, but rather on how to grow and develop into exactly the kind of person that God wants you to be.
Finding purpose, pursing adventure, developing discipleship, maturing finances; who of you can say that you've arrived at perfection in all of these areas? And these are just 4 of the 12 rich chapters! I've had the privilege of getting to know the author, Shelley, a little bit through social media and while I was on her book launch team, and she is a gem who genuinely cares about other single girls.
I know this book won't stay on my shelf long! I'll be rereading it again for sure!
Finding purpose, pursing adventure, developing discipleship, maturing finances; who of you can say that you've arrived at perfection in all of these areas? And these are just 4 of the 12 rich chapters! I've had the privilege of getting to know the author, Shelley, a little bit through social media and while I was on her book launch team, and she is a gem who genuinely cares about other single girls.
I know this book won't stay on my shelf long! I'll be rereading it again for sure!
October 15, 2020
I don’t know how I stumbled on this book. I think I saw it on Amazon in a recommended read. I honestly loved the cover and the cheap price. The title also made me feel like I needed to pick it up.
I didn’t think I was struggling with being single, but in this season of life I have a little bit. As much I love have time for myself to spend it with God and friends in the midst of this pandemic, there is a longing in my heart to be in a relationship.
This book really comforted me in this time, helped me see where I am right now has purpose. The chapters that will stay with me the most are, managing your finances and discipling others and developing a skill. I learned so much about how best to see money and how it is to be used. As an investment for the future. Out of anything I read in this, that will stick.
I also loved the devotionals at the end of each chapter and found myself highlighting a lot. I would recommend this if you’re struggling with being single or want to learn something new.
I didn’t think I was struggling with being single, but in this season of life I have a little bit. As much I love have time for myself to spend it with God and friends in the midst of this pandemic, there is a longing in my heart to be in a relationship.
This book really comforted me in this time, helped me see where I am right now has purpose. The chapters that will stay with me the most are, managing your finances and discipling others and developing a skill. I learned so much about how best to see money and how it is to be used. As an investment for the future. Out of anything I read in this, that will stick.
I also loved the devotionals at the end of each chapter and found myself highlighting a lot. I would recommend this if you’re struggling with being single or want to learn something new.
January 28, 2021
Must Read
This book was very well laid out. I wanted a book that would help women find satisfaction in their singleness while drawing closer to God. Most books about being single are focused on how to prepare for marriage. This book was purchased for the purpose of helping other women in a group I am leading begin to find value in their lives as a single woman facing pressures of family and society to marry. This book is going to do just that!
While many of us desire marriage, there is a reason we are still single- it’s not the right time. In this book it has ways of helping each person understand what they can do now in their lives to be fulfilled. As the book implies, begin to savor the season of singleness; it’s really not a bad place to be! A bonus is that it comes with a link to a free study guide.
This book was very well laid out. I wanted a book that would help women find satisfaction in their singleness while drawing closer to God. Most books about being single are focused on how to prepare for marriage. This book was purchased for the purpose of helping other women in a group I am leading begin to find value in their lives as a single woman facing pressures of family and society to marry. This book is going to do just that!
While many of us desire marriage, there is a reason we are still single- it’s not the right time. In this book it has ways of helping each person understand what they can do now in their lives to be fulfilled. As the book implies, begin to savor the season of singleness; it’s really not a bad place to be! A bonus is that it comes with a link to a free study guide.
April 2, 2018
I really liked this book! First, the style. The author writes like she's a friend or big sister. It's so friendly and personal. :) Overall, I loved the topics covered in this book, and can definitely see myself rereading this in the future, as well as recommending it to other young ladies of all ages. This book isn't just about purity... it's so much more and touches on various important areas of life.
July 26, 2021
"Savoring Single" was such solace and comfort, in contrast to what I expected for a book about Christian singleness. This book offered great advice and was a great read. I appreciated her openness and honesty, and her ability to share her stories that made me felt encouraged and hopeful. The most important message I got from this book is that I have to place my trust and focus solely on God, not man.
July 26, 2023
This is a must-read for every single woman striving to live a life that honors God. The author uses Biblical references throughout the book that serves as a great reminder that God is the true definition of LOVE. He fills the void! I love the prayers that the author writes in the beginning of the chapters. Thank you, Shelley Blake, for allowing the Holy Spirit to use you on writing this book. I look forward to more books from you!
August 19, 2020
This was a great read for a Christian single woman. We read this in our singles bible study group and this was so encouraging to lean into our faith and trust God in our waiting season. A lot of great scripture reference as well.
April 26, 2023
I love it !
I love how it feels like talking to a good Friends. My only issue (which does means I don't recommend the Book) is I can totally see myself in the Book because she looks like a very priviledge woman. But it still a good read if you are single and struggle with it
I love how it feels like talking to a good Friends. My only issue (which does means I don't recommend the Book) is I can totally see myself in the Book because she looks like a very priviledge woman. But it still a good read if you are single and struggle with it
January 1, 2022
Encouraging
As a single mom this book really encouraged me and gave me a good perspective on enjoy the season of singleness!!
As a single mom this book really encouraged me and gave me a good perspective on enjoy the season of singleness!!
June 14, 2025
A great read and reminder of how awesome our single season can be.
May 1, 2020
Recently I had the opportunity to read Savoring Single by Shelley Black, and it as very encouraging! I was able to be a part of the blog tour for this book, and I'm glad I did. I love how encouraging this book is for all areas concerning singleness, and how Shelley encourages girls to live this season to the fullest, whether/not we ever get married!
A key point that I took away from this book, was that our desire to be loved and to have a relationship is a normal part of us as humans, but our desires will never be satisfied in anything/anyone outside of Jesus Christ. In every season of life, we’ll long for other things, but what we really need is Jesus.
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that Shelley used new versions (The MSG, NLT, TPT) in the book, which can have things that are added to / taken away from the actual Bible.
A key point that I took away from this book, was that our desire to be loved and to have a relationship is a normal part of us as humans, but our desires will never be satisfied in anything/anyone outside of Jesus Christ. In every season of life, we’ll long for other things, but what we really need is Jesus.
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that Shelley used new versions (The MSG, NLT, TPT) in the book, which can have things that are added to / taken away from the actual Bible.
February 12, 2018
I am grateful to Livy Lynn Blog for giving me a copy of this book. The fact I received this book for free does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I'm not single. In fact, I've been married for several decades. Nevertheless, my heart was touched reading this book. Not because I developed empathy for the author, but because the truths taught are relevant to everyone.
Savoring Single does have several chapters that deal with being content with being single, and yet even those chapters are so relevant to others. The importance of living a life with intimacy with God and being surrendered to God applies to every Christian. And we should never put our value and sense of worth in any except the God who loves us. The book is filled with scripture verses to back up the author's experience and advice. It is a Bible study and a testimony of God's work.
I am blessed for having read this book and have come away with some things the Lord spoke to my heart about. My recommendation for who reads this book is that every middle school girl and older should read this. And anyone who desires a closer relationship with God should read it. Just be aware that with it being written for single women, there will be parts of it that don't apply to you.
Shelley's Testimony
I used to say that I didn’t have a testimony. This seemed abundantly apparent during a mission trip I went on to Puerto Rico. Person after person, I heard these remarkable stories of how God had saved them from abandonment to abuse, drugs and alcohol to dropping out of school. My life seemed predictable at best, and my testimony, short.
I grew up in a godly home, one where both my parents were active in church ministry and later on in my childhood they both became pastors. They married young and are married still and raised my two sisters and I in a home that knew no abuse, divorce, drugs or alcohol, affair or lack. There were many years we didn’t have much, but we never went without.
For my portion of the Tour, Shelley is giving away 4 Autographed Paperback Copies of Savoring Single!
To enter, simply use the Raffelcopter form below, to follow Shelley Black, and the Tour Coordinator, Livy Lynn, on their Social Media accounts and get connected with both of their ministries.
I'm not single. In fact, I've been married for several decades. Nevertheless, my heart was touched reading this book. Not because I developed empathy for the author, but because the truths taught are relevant to everyone.
Savoring Single does have several chapters that deal with being content with being single, and yet even those chapters are so relevant to others. The importance of living a life with intimacy with God and being surrendered to God applies to every Christian. And we should never put our value and sense of worth in any except the God who loves us. The book is filled with scripture verses to back up the author's experience and advice. It is a Bible study and a testimony of God's work.
I am blessed for having read this book and have come away with some things the Lord spoke to my heart about. My recommendation for who reads this book is that every middle school girl and older should read this. And anyone who desires a closer relationship with God should read it. Just be aware that with it being written for single women, there will be parts of it that don't apply to you.
Shelley's Testimony
I used to say that I didn’t have a testimony. This seemed abundantly apparent during a mission trip I went on to Puerto Rico. Person after person, I heard these remarkable stories of how God had saved them from abandonment to abuse, drugs and alcohol to dropping out of school. My life seemed predictable at best, and my testimony, short.
I grew up in a godly home, one where both my parents were active in church ministry and later on in my childhood they both became pastors. They married young and are married still and raised my two sisters and I in a home that knew no abuse, divorce, drugs or alcohol, affair or lack. There were many years we didn’t have much, but we never went without.
I followed in-toe, as many do after their parents. I loved church since childhood, know all the Bible time stories, can quote scriptures in the NKJV and even went to private school until 8th grade. I stayed on the straight and narrow through high school, losing every friend I had except my sister. I didn’t party, drink or date really. And when I did date I stayed pure. College was the same.
Standing in front of a room full of Puerto Rican teenagers, this just didn’t seem to be relatable at all. I’m a church kid. They say “tell your story” but that didn’t seem like a “story,” it seemed like a one-liner, a brief description, or simply a tag line. Shelley Black, pastor’s kid, good girl. Boring.
It wasn’t until after that trip, that year, even that season ended that I realized… that was my testimony.
For two reasons.
One. Because I grew up in a godly home, I have never known a day without knowing God’s love, His presence and the reality that if I would simply call upon His name He would be there. My life has been built upon godly values, biblical standards and strict parenting, all which kept me from seeking life in the world because I already had one in God. That doesn’t mean that it’s always been easy, but it does mean that I’ve always had a foundation to press into when the waves crashed. And they did crash.
As the poor girl at a rich school I was bullied heavily (like most it seems) in the years before I went to public school. I was daily laughed at, ridiculed and shamed. Head held low I learned early not to base my identity on what others said about me, simply because I didn’t like what they had to say.
High school was lonely (for most again, though few will admit it openly). I held few friends as I pursued God and chose a life different from those around me. I went to school, worked hard and was already dedicated in many areas of our local church. So goes college.
Then both my sisters got engaged (2 weeks apart), married (a few months apart), and a few years later they began having babies (again, only a few months apart from each other). Life seemed to race by for them and I was… waiting. It was hard. Hard is an understatement at best. My soul ached with loneliness that drenched my life in grief and depression. For years.
So though I knew God from an early age it wasn’t until almost my thirties that I realized it was more religion than relationship, more about doing right than knowing Him and it left me empty, desperate for a different way.
Which brings us to reason number two. I was a pastor’s kid, which meant my parent’s faith was my faith almost by default. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, I’m just saying it wasn’t mine. I believed what they believed, prayed how they prayed, went where they went, but when I found myself alone I didn’t seem to have the depth I thought I should and found myself to be a shallow shell of the girl I used to be. I went to church every Sunday with a smile on my face but was dying inside. I felt completely alone as if the heavens were sealed shut and God had gone silent. I knew He was there, but it seemed He was opposite an impenetrable wall and I could only believe with fading hope that He was still there.
This is where the story of me savoring single begins, not because I was writing my story, but because my life needed an awakening and the “Savoring Single” book became the testimony after the storm cleared.
Though I didn’t have the words that day in Puerto Rico, today my testimony is now this:
Jesus Christ was born, lived, died and resurrected so that I could know Him through a more intimate relationship than I am capable of knowing outside of Him. He then sent His Holy Spirit to forever abolish loneliness and so that I would be confident that no matter the circumstance He would still be near. But like any gift that must be first received and then opened, I knew God by heritage but not from a personal walk with Him. See, I lived knowing about Him but really not knowing Him. I pursued other relationships to silence the pains of loneliness, while He was waiting to comfort me. I lived as if I were unloved and unchosen, having forgotten that I was already both even before I was born. I thought He died to wash my sins away, but He died to wash my sins away so I could walk with Him in the most important relationship of my life.
So yes, I may have the old “Hello. My name is Shelley Black, pastor’s kid” label that represents a rich heritage born into and raised from, but it has since developed into a personal faith that transcends the belief of those before me into a rich relationship with God of my own. This has made all the difference. This is where my life truly changed. And this is why I am now savoring single, no longer alone but satisfied in Him.
For my portion of the Tour, Shelley is giving away 4 Autographed Paperback Copies of Savoring Single!
To enter, simply use the Raffelcopter form below, to follow Shelley Black, and the Tour Coordinator, Livy Lynn, on their Social Media accounts and get connected with both of their ministries.
The Giveaway begins February 3rd and ends March 3rd! Have fun entering and getting connected with these lovely ladies! :D (Oh, and good luck! ;)
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Tour Coordinated By: Livy Lynn Blog! Are you a Christian author? Let me plan your next Blog Tour! Visit www.livylynnblog.com!This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
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