What do you think?
Rate this book
Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 Days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture & Draw Closer to God
How many of us find ourselves constantly busy and, deep down, constantly soul-weary? By striving to keep up our busy pace, we can easily miss out on a deeper connection with God. So many of us are overwhelmed and underfed. But there is hope.
In this inspiring and practical book, Sarah Beth Marr helps women develop a regular practice of withdrawing from busyness to realign and refresh their hearts, minds, and souls. She helps them
- discover Scripture that will lead them to peace
- connect with God on a deeper level
- run to God rather than other things that do not satisfy
- experience less stress and more contentment
- be fully present in their lives
Any woman who feels distracted, burnt out, depleted, or overwhelmed will find in Marr a gentle and uplifting guide to greater personal peace and simplicity.
In this inspiring and practical book, Sarah Beth Marr helps women develop a regular practice of withdrawing from busyness to realign and refresh their hearts, minds, and souls. She helps them
- discover Scripture that will lead them to peace
- connect with God on a deeper level
- run to God rather than other things that do not satisfy
- experience less stress and more contentment
- be fully present in their lives
Any woman who feels distracted, burnt out, depleted, or overwhelmed will find in Marr a gentle and uplifting guide to greater personal peace and simplicity.
240 pages, Paperback
Published February 5, 2019
16 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Beth Marr
4 books34 followersSarah Beth Marr is a wife and mama whose passion is to encourage women in their journeys with the Lord through her writing, speaking, and teaching the Word. Sarah danced professionally for over fifteen years as a ballerina for Ballet Austin and Mejia Ballet International (formally known as Ballet Arlington.) Her dancing inspired her to begin a blog of devotionals for ballet dancers, which over time has evolved into a ministry of encouragement to women of all ages. Sarah’s first book, Dreaming with God – A Bold Call to Step Out and Follow God’s Lead releases in February of 2018 with Baker Books.
Sarah loves to encourage women in their journeys with the Lord. She is passionate about bringing joy-filled, grace-filled, biblically-based messages to the hearts of women of all ages. Sarah teaches from her heart and her passion is to stir up women’s wonder of the Lord, to spur them on in their personal relationship with Him, to equip them with the Word, to inspire them to dream with God, and to send them out refreshed, encouraged, and inspired to lean into the grace of Jesus.
When Sarah is not encouraging women, she is hanging with her favorite people. She lives in Dallas, TX with her husband and high school sweetheart, Brian, and their three sons. Connect with Sarah at sarahbethmarr.com, on Instagram @sarahbethmarr, and Facebook: Sarah Beth Marr.
Sarah loves to encourage women in their journeys with the Lord. She is passionate about bringing joy-filled, grace-filled, biblically-based messages to the hearts of women of all ages. Sarah teaches from her heart and her passion is to stir up women’s wonder of the Lord, to spur them on in their personal relationship with Him, to equip them with the Word, to inspire them to dream with God, and to send them out refreshed, encouraged, and inspired to lean into the grace of Jesus.
When Sarah is not encouraging women, she is hanging with her favorite people. She lives in Dallas, TX with her husband and high school sweetheart, Brian, and their three sons. Connect with Sarah at sarahbethmarr.com, on Instagram @sarahbethmarr, and Facebook: Sarah Beth Marr.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 5, 2020
Oh, gracious. I loved (and needed) this book. Full five stars. RTC.
April 27, 2019
Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 Days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture, & Draw Closer to God by Sarah Beth Marr
5 stars
As the Master Gardener, He wants your life to blossom in all its beauty and flourish from a deeply planted root system of a precious relationship with Him. He wants to meet with you, encourage you, nurture you, and guide you so that the garden of your life in Him is healthy and flourishing."
Whimsical Writing Scale: 5
Plotastic Scale: 5
Cover Thoughts: I LOVE this cover. It's my weakness- illustrated flowers.
Thank you, Netgalley and Baker Books, for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars
As the Master Gardener, He wants your life to blossom in all its beauty and flourish from a deeply planted root system of a precious relationship with Him. He wants to meet with you, encourage you, nurture you, and guide you so that the garden of your life in Him is healthy and flourishing."
Whispers and Wildflowers is a gem. This little devotional book was chocked full of wonderful Scripture, great and thought-provoking questions, prayer, and encouragement. This book was exactly what I needed over the last month. I took the challenge to read this for a full thirty days and tried to not miss any days, but I missed a couple. However, the time that I spent with God each day with this extra, supplementary devotional time was so invigorating. The Holy Spirit often prompts me through flowers and vision of gardens, so this book sang to my sweet and aching soul. I felt refreshed after reading this book and it was wonderful to see how God chose to speak to me each day. I'll be real, some days He was more blunt than others, but this book refreshed my spirit and made me feel like my soul-garden was being doused with water that it had been thirsting for. This book helped me seek God out in a deeper way outside of my Bible-reading and prayer time. I want to strongly encourage you not to use this novel as a replacement for the word of God. Reading Scripture every day is SO, SO important and this can help further your time with Jesus, but it shouldn't replace the living word of God. Sarah Beth Marr has become a new favorite Christian writer and I'll definitely be seeking out some of her stuff in the future.
Whimsical Writing Scale: 5
Plotastic Scale: 5
Cover Thoughts: I LOVE this cover. It's my weakness- illustrated flowers.
Thank you, Netgalley and Baker Books, for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2019
Sarah Beth Marr says in the introduction of Whispers and Wildflowers that hard work is a good thing and she doesn't recommend we go back to flip phones. However, in our busy world we could all use a retreat from our hard work and technology at times.Whispers and Wildflowers was written as a thirty-day retreat to enjoy day by day. Marr encourages the reader to slow down, savor Scripture and draw closer to God each of those days. However, she says to use the book however it works best for you.
In Whispers and Wildflowers, Each day's reading begins with a a selection to read and reflect on for each day. She then has a couple of pages dedicated to journaling called Garden Moments for Your Soul. Then the reading ends with a prayer--and there is extra space to write more to the prayer or to write more thoughts about the reading.
My husband and I love to garden. In fact, I used to garden with him for dates before we got married as he lived on an acreage and I in an apartment. With that background, I especially love how Marr relates God to the Master Gardener and reflects on gardening in this book. I also do well reflecting on my reading with writing so I appreciate the journal areas in this book. It is truly gorgeous with a watercolor floral cover and that is carried through the book, although in black and white, on the reflection pages.Whispers and Wildflowers truly looks like a retreat within the pretty book cover. I know the time in the pages are well-spent as I learn and grow in my faith. You don't have to be a gardener to gain spiritual insights throughout this book but it definitely added a nice element for me.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
In Whispers and Wildflowers, Each day's reading begins with a a selection to read and reflect on for each day. She then has a couple of pages dedicated to journaling called Garden Moments for Your Soul. Then the reading ends with a prayer--and there is extra space to write more to the prayer or to write more thoughts about the reading.
My husband and I love to garden. In fact, I used to garden with him for dates before we got married as he lived on an acreage and I in an apartment. With that background, I especially love how Marr relates God to the Master Gardener and reflects on gardening in this book. I also do well reflecting on my reading with writing so I appreciate the journal areas in this book. It is truly gorgeous with a watercolor floral cover and that is carried through the book, although in black and white, on the reflection pages.Whispers and Wildflowers truly looks like a retreat within the pretty book cover. I know the time in the pages are well-spent as I learn and grow in my faith. You don't have to be a gardener to gain spiritual insights throughout this book but it definitely added a nice element for me.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
April 9, 2019
I know, isn't it crazy? A second non-fiction book. For someone who reads only fiction, this was another unusual choice for me. But with this book, first the cover caught my attention (isn't it beautiful?!) and then the description. The last few months have been so busy, between selling our house, moving in with my parents, preparing for a baby and looking for a new house, life has been overwhelming at times. Enter this book.
This book is a 30 day devotional designed to fit into a busy life. The short chapters with reflection questions at the end of each were the perfect interludes to my day. Also, she would include a short blurb at the beginning of each chapter that were beautiful. All throughout the book she compared our hearts to a garden, which I loved. It was an easy comparison to relate to even though I don't do a lot of gardening.
The front of the book says it best - "30 days to slow your pace, savor scripture and draw closer to God"
This book is a 30 day devotional designed to fit into a busy life. The short chapters with reflection questions at the end of each were the perfect interludes to my day. Also, she would include a short blurb at the beginning of each chapter that were beautiful. All throughout the book she compared our hearts to a garden, which I loved. It was an easy comparison to relate to even though I don't do a lot of gardening.
The front of the book says it best - "30 days to slow your pace, savor scripture and draw closer to God"
February 26, 2019
This 30 day devotional book is like honey for your soul. Its a great encouragement! The cover is beautiful and the words Sarah has written inside are even more beautiful. The Bible verses sprinkled inside the pages are such joy for a weary heart. I love that this book also has space to journal at the end of each devotion. In reading this book I have definitely listened more for Gods little whispers in life. This book is great for any woman in any walk of life. A breathe of fresh air!
April 16, 2019
*I received this book from Baker Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 Days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture & Draw Closer to God by Sarah Beth Marr clocks in at one of my favorite reads so far this year. It was a breath of fresh air for my busy, overburdened brain.
I am always on the lookout for a good devotional. One that is scriptural, but speaks to my soul. And also doesn’t put me to sleep. Which can sometimes be the case…
Sarah Beth Marr really points out the importance of rest in her book. And it’s something I really needed to read at this point in my life. I sometimes forget to rest. To remember that we all need it. God needed it after creating the universe and He is the creator of all things. I like what she says in this passage:
“What did Jesus do when He felt all the noise closing in on Him? Instead of pushing through it all and keeping on keeping on, He withdrew…He retreated. He put everything on hold and ran to His Father’s embrace. He set the world aside and placed Himself in the presence of the One who was in control.”
She stresses the fact that sometimes we feel like if we slow down we’ll get behind. That we keep pressing onward, but we’re so depleted and tired that we’re not doing anything to the best of our abilities. I say it ALL the time- sure we can do it all, but can we do it all well?
Another thing she mentions, that I REALLY needed to hear, was about what we’re supposed to be doing right now, to impact others spiritually. I am always questioning, am I doing enough? Should I be doing more for the kingdom of God? Am I supposed to sell everything I own and become a missionary in order to further His plan? I always feel like I’m falling short. But, she said something that was balm to my anxious heart:
“As women, we tend to want to do a major project of love or sign up for something big and missional in order to love well. And those are beautiful things if we have the capacity to take them on in our current season. But what I want us to see today is that our everyday lives present opportunities to love well.”
IF we have the capacity to take them on in our current season.
Whoa. You mean it doesn’t have to be a grand display? I can make a difference in my home? My community? I LOVE that. We can start small and reach others without it being an over the top, soul-depleting gesture. Like she says in a later chapter- “What if we did it all for the glory of God? What if we looked at doing the dishes as just as sacred as something more “spiritual”?”
Yes- it can really be that easy.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the moment each day when I cracked it open. I read it in small sips, savoring each devotion. Which is really how it’s meant to be read.
Each day’s chapters are short enough to not be overwhelming, but long enough that they fit in a lot of wisdom. Enough that I felt like I got a good soul fill up to start my day.
I’m really going to take everything to heart that she has said about rest and its importance to our spiritual as well as physical health. I feel this need to slow down my pace and really impact the lives of those immediately around me and work up from there. This book came to me at just the right time, to encourage some thoughts I’d already been having. Really stressing me that I’ve got the right idea, and am headed in the right direction for this particular season of life.
Definitely get yourself a copy of this book and sneak in a few moments to yourself to read it over the next month or so. No one will judge you if it takes a little longer, I promise.
Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 Days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture & Draw Closer to God by Sarah Beth Marr clocks in at one of my favorite reads so far this year. It was a breath of fresh air for my busy, overburdened brain.
I am always on the lookout for a good devotional. One that is scriptural, but speaks to my soul. And also doesn’t put me to sleep. Which can sometimes be the case…
Sarah Beth Marr really points out the importance of rest in her book. And it’s something I really needed to read at this point in my life. I sometimes forget to rest. To remember that we all need it. God needed it after creating the universe and He is the creator of all things. I like what she says in this passage:
“What did Jesus do when He felt all the noise closing in on Him? Instead of pushing through it all and keeping on keeping on, He withdrew…He retreated. He put everything on hold and ran to His Father’s embrace. He set the world aside and placed Himself in the presence of the One who was in control.”
She stresses the fact that sometimes we feel like if we slow down we’ll get behind. That we keep pressing onward, but we’re so depleted and tired that we’re not doing anything to the best of our abilities. I say it ALL the time- sure we can do it all, but can we do it all well?
Another thing she mentions, that I REALLY needed to hear, was about what we’re supposed to be doing right now, to impact others spiritually. I am always questioning, am I doing enough? Should I be doing more for the kingdom of God? Am I supposed to sell everything I own and become a missionary in order to further His plan? I always feel like I’m falling short. But, she said something that was balm to my anxious heart:
“As women, we tend to want to do a major project of love or sign up for something big and missional in order to love well. And those are beautiful things if we have the capacity to take them on in our current season. But what I want us to see today is that our everyday lives present opportunities to love well.”
IF we have the capacity to take them on in our current season.
Whoa. You mean it doesn’t have to be a grand display? I can make a difference in my home? My community? I LOVE that. We can start small and reach others without it being an over the top, soul-depleting gesture. Like she says in a later chapter- “What if we did it all for the glory of God? What if we looked at doing the dishes as just as sacred as something more “spiritual”?”
Yes- it can really be that easy.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the moment each day when I cracked it open. I read it in small sips, savoring each devotion. Which is really how it’s meant to be read.
Each day’s chapters are short enough to not be overwhelming, but long enough that they fit in a lot of wisdom. Enough that I felt like I got a good soul fill up to start my day.
I’m really going to take everything to heart that she has said about rest and its importance to our spiritual as well as physical health. I feel this need to slow down my pace and really impact the lives of those immediately around me and work up from there. This book came to me at just the right time, to encourage some thoughts I’d already been having. Really stressing me that I’ve got the right idea, and am headed in the right direction for this particular season of life.
Definitely get yourself a copy of this book and sneak in a few moments to yourself to read it over the next month or so. No one will judge you if it takes a little longer, I promise.
May 29, 2019
This book is a devotional for women to be read over the period of 30 days. Marr uses flower and plant allegories to explore subjects relating to faith and personal growth with each day providing food for thought and steps and actions to take.
I enjoyed reading this and found it really good for prompting reflection. It does not go too much into depth but instead is a gentle starting post to explore issues further only if the reader chooses to do so, consequently it’s an accessible read (and while there are a lot of Americanism terms and expressions) universal for many.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading this and found it really good for prompting reflection. It does not go too much into depth but instead is a gentle starting post to explore issues further only if the reader chooses to do so, consequently it’s an accessible read (and while there are a lot of Americanism terms and expressions) universal for many.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2023
Such a great devotional with prompts on slowing down.
September 6, 2019
We all need to simply slow down, rest and spend some time with God to soak in His wisdom. This 30 days to slow your pace and savor scripture is a true description of this wonderful devotional book. You can spend anywhere from 5 minutes to hours on each devotional. Each day is full of God's Word, prayer, and little tidbits that help to understand why we need to slow down our pace and savor Jesus.
Day 8 is titled "Prune". Sarah Beth Marr states, "I think it's an opportunity for a heart-to-heart conversation with our Master Gardener, a chance to ask Him specifically what needs pruning. This is not an easy or particularity fun process, but if we can see the beauty in it - that after pruning comes fruit-bearing - then I think we will recognize its value. " Sometimes we just need a reminder that we have a Helper that wants to help us each and every day. He wants to prune our life for His Will and not our own. God has so many ways to cultivate us and restore us but we have to be willing to spend time with the Savior daily. Yes it's hard when our life is completely booked but we have to be rooted in Jesus and start each day with Him to experience His Joy and be Well-Watered.
I was so excited when this book was released that I had to order a physical copy of the book for me to do the 30 days over. I think it is a great reminder of scriptures that I already know but that Jesus is our Shepard. He knows us and our ways. He invites us to share our life with Him so He can carry our heavy burdens! He can certainly carry them better than we will ever be able to. I want to be reminded constantly not to worry about tomorrow and to stay present in today. I want my "heart to thrive like the wildflowers".
I received this book for an honest review from NetGalley.
Day 8 is titled "Prune". Sarah Beth Marr states, "I think it's an opportunity for a heart-to-heart conversation with our Master Gardener, a chance to ask Him specifically what needs pruning. This is not an easy or particularity fun process, but if we can see the beauty in it - that after pruning comes fruit-bearing - then I think we will recognize its value. " Sometimes we just need a reminder that we have a Helper that wants to help us each and every day. He wants to prune our life for His Will and not our own. God has so many ways to cultivate us and restore us but we have to be willing to spend time with the Savior daily. Yes it's hard when our life is completely booked but we have to be rooted in Jesus and start each day with Him to experience His Joy and be Well-Watered.
I was so excited when this book was released that I had to order a physical copy of the book for me to do the 30 days over. I think it is a great reminder of scriptures that I already know but that Jesus is our Shepard. He knows us and our ways. He invites us to share our life with Him so He can carry our heavy burdens! He can certainly carry them better than we will ever be able to. I want to be reminded constantly not to worry about tomorrow and to stay present in today. I want my "heart to thrive like the wildflowers".
I received this book for an honest review from NetGalley.
April 13, 2019
Ever since the release of Sarah Beth Marr’s first book, “Dreaming With God”, I have been looking forward to discovering what her next writing project would be. . . Now, a year later, her second release from BakerBooks is available and entitled “Whispers and WIldflowers: 30 Days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture & Draw Closer to God”.
“Whispers and Wildflowers” is a lovely, daily-reading, devotional-style book that is written in Sarah Beth’s signature style of sweet, gentle, warm, and uplifting. Each chapter is mostly individual (but should still be read in order, as they do build on each other). Every day opens with a key takeaway idea (sort of the chapter boiled down into a sentence or two) and a daily Scripture verse, followed by several pages of reading on the specific topic of the day. The chapter closes with a “Garden Moments for Your Soul” section, which contains a few questions for further thought, space to write your response, and a prayer that corresponds to the daily topic (with room to add more lines to the prayer if you like).
Several of my favorite chapters are: Be Rooted; Weed Out the Doubts; Love Lavishly; Like the Birds; Like the Wildflowers; Blossom; Sanctuary; and many more! As you can see, many of the topics are related to garden analogies, and based on themes of of retreat and rest, of leaving the pressures of life behind and drawing near to God for strength, peace, hope, and renewal. Certainly this is a relevant theme in today’s busy world, and “Whispers and Wildflowers” is the perfect stepping-stone into the practice of retreating with God for a little while each day.
I am grateful to have received a copy of this book, free of charge, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
“Whispers and Wildflowers” is a lovely, daily-reading, devotional-style book that is written in Sarah Beth’s signature style of sweet, gentle, warm, and uplifting. Each chapter is mostly individual (but should still be read in order, as they do build on each other). Every day opens with a key takeaway idea (sort of the chapter boiled down into a sentence or two) and a daily Scripture verse, followed by several pages of reading on the specific topic of the day. The chapter closes with a “Garden Moments for Your Soul” section, which contains a few questions for further thought, space to write your response, and a prayer that corresponds to the daily topic (with room to add more lines to the prayer if you like).
Several of my favorite chapters are: Be Rooted; Weed Out the Doubts; Love Lavishly; Like the Birds; Like the Wildflowers; Blossom; Sanctuary; and many more! As you can see, many of the topics are related to garden analogies, and based on themes of of retreat and rest, of leaving the pressures of life behind and drawing near to God for strength, peace, hope, and renewal. Certainly this is a relevant theme in today’s busy world, and “Whispers and Wildflowers” is the perfect stepping-stone into the practice of retreating with God for a little while each day.
I am grateful to have received a copy of this book, free of charge, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 24, 2019
Whispers and Wildflowers is a wonderful devotional book that deeply resonated with me. It’s full of rich truths straight from God’s Word that will both convict and refresh. The author’s voice is personable, encouraging, and loving. You can clearly hear her heart for the Lord and for her readers in the introduction of the book. Reading through each day’s devotional brought back to my mind SO many truths God has worked in me and shown me over the years and it was such a blessing to be reminded of those truths. At times, it almost felt as if Ms. Marr must have been sitting in on the last several years of my life, hearing the truths God has spoken to my heart and reminded me of from His Word and then compiled the truths in this book. Each day’s message is followed with good questions meant to encourage insight into your personal life as well as help in figuring out the practical application of it. Accompanying the questions are sincere and real prayers of the heart. Whispers and Wildflowers is a beautiful book, inside and out. It’s outside beauty caught my attention and the inside beauty refreshed my heart for the Lord. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to read and review this book. It spoke so much to my heart that I hope to purchase multiple copies to give as gifts to several ladies I know. I know I look forward to going back through this book again, myself, at a more leisurely pace and savoring it a bit more. I think this is a book that could be picked up again and again to remind us where to keep our focus and where our help truly comes from.
**I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
**I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
February 6, 2019
Renewal and Refreshment for Weary Souls
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture and Draw Closer to God by Sarah Beth Marr.
Whispers and Wildflowers is beautifully written, inviting readers to rest and be still before the Lord, receiving His love and peace. Each of the 30 chapters are written to guide readers to a time of retreat with the Lord, allowing Him to refresh and renew worn, weary souls. There is space in the book for journaling, responding to the prompts and questions. Whispers and Wildflowers is a book that I will read through again and again, because not only do I want to develop a habit of regular time with the Lord, but I need the renewal and refreshment that only He can give.
Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture and Draw Closer to God by Sarah Beth Marr is a must-read for any woman, especially anyone who is overwhelmed, worn out, stressed out, tired, and burned out. Sarah Beth Marr writes gently and thoughtfully, bringing healing and comfort. The cover of Whispers and Wildflowers is so pretty, inviting readers to pause and be restored.
I very highly recommend Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture and Draw Closer to God.
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture and Draw Closer to God from the publisher. The opinion stated is my own. I was not obligated to post a review. I have not been compensated in any way.*
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture and Draw Closer to God by Sarah Beth Marr.
Whispers and Wildflowers is beautifully written, inviting readers to rest and be still before the Lord, receiving His love and peace. Each of the 30 chapters are written to guide readers to a time of retreat with the Lord, allowing Him to refresh and renew worn, weary souls. There is space in the book for journaling, responding to the prompts and questions. Whispers and Wildflowers is a book that I will read through again and again, because not only do I want to develop a habit of regular time with the Lord, but I need the renewal and refreshment that only He can give.
Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture and Draw Closer to God by Sarah Beth Marr is a must-read for any woman, especially anyone who is overwhelmed, worn out, stressed out, tired, and burned out. Sarah Beth Marr writes gently and thoughtfully, bringing healing and comfort. The cover of Whispers and Wildflowers is so pretty, inviting readers to pause and be restored.
I very highly recommend Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture and Draw Closer to God.
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture and Draw Closer to God from the publisher. The opinion stated is my own. I was not obligated to post a review. I have not been compensated in any way.*
February 9, 2019
Good book but not much Scripture to savor
In her new book, “Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture & Draw Closer to God,” Sarah Beth Marr takes the reader on a journey that could be referred to as a respite for those who may be spiritually parched in their souls.
Published by Baker Book, Marr’s 239-page book covers the gamut of topics, including being rooted, pouring out, being restored and having those “porch moments” where you “soak in God’s creation,” as she states.
While Marr’s book is written primarily for women (especially since there are no male reviewers quoted in the front of the book), I would have liked to have seen at least one day devoted to us guys. We, too, need spiritual respites from time to time just as much as our sisters in the Lord – but perhaps not in the same prosy writing style.
In addition, although Marr writes about savoring Scripture, her book sorely lacks the biblical references it needs – namely the richness of the Lord found in all four Gospels; not just in a few chosen verses.
Overall, it’s a fairly good book that may very well benefit all readers.
I gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received this book free through the Baker Books Bloggers Program. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2019 by Doug S., M.A.
In her new book, “Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture & Draw Closer to God,” Sarah Beth Marr takes the reader on a journey that could be referred to as a respite for those who may be spiritually parched in their souls.
Published by Baker Book, Marr’s 239-page book covers the gamut of topics, including being rooted, pouring out, being restored and having those “porch moments” where you “soak in God’s creation,” as she states.
While Marr’s book is written primarily for women (especially since there are no male reviewers quoted in the front of the book), I would have liked to have seen at least one day devoted to us guys. We, too, need spiritual respites from time to time just as much as our sisters in the Lord – but perhaps not in the same prosy writing style.
In addition, although Marr writes about savoring Scripture, her book sorely lacks the biblical references it needs – namely the richness of the Lord found in all four Gospels; not just in a few chosen verses.
Overall, it’s a fairly good book that may very well benefit all readers.
I gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received this book free through the Baker Books Bloggers Program. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2019 by Doug S., M.A.
February 5, 2019
The very cover of Whispers and Wildflowers by Sarah Beth Marr brought a desire to my heart to slow down, open the cover, and read her words.
We long for our lives to be focused, have a clear mission, and a heart that pursues God every day. But as women, we are living busier than ever and often are distracted, overwhelmed with our schedules, and overtired.
"What did Jesus do when He felt all the noise closing in on Him? Instead of pushing through it and keeping on keeping on, He withdrew... He retreated.
Jesus's heart stayed healthy because of those retreats with God."
(from page 13)
The book is an invitation to draw close to our Lord, spending a few quiet moments each day so that our hearts can be in tune with Him.
Whispers and Wildflowers is a 30 day devotional book written to pull our hearts back into deep and continued connection with God. Each day consists of:
a main Scripture and thought
questions and space to journal called "Garden Moments for Your Soul"
a written prayer
The book was hard to put down as each day was inspirational and meant to be savored. If you are feel distracted, burnt out, depleted, or overwhelmed, this book is for you as you will find it to be a balm for your soul.
**I was provided a copy of this book by Baker Publishing Group for review. All opinions are honest and my own.
We long for our lives to be focused, have a clear mission, and a heart that pursues God every day. But as women, we are living busier than ever and often are distracted, overwhelmed with our schedules, and overtired.
"What did Jesus do when He felt all the noise closing in on Him? Instead of pushing through it and keeping on keeping on, He withdrew... He retreated.
Jesus's heart stayed healthy because of those retreats with God."
(from page 13)
The book is an invitation to draw close to our Lord, spending a few quiet moments each day so that our hearts can be in tune with Him.
Whispers and Wildflowers is a 30 day devotional book written to pull our hearts back into deep and continued connection with God. Each day consists of:
a main Scripture and thought
questions and space to journal called "Garden Moments for Your Soul"
a written prayer
The book was hard to put down as each day was inspirational and meant to be savored. If you are feel distracted, burnt out, depleted, or overwhelmed, this book is for you as you will find it to be a balm for your soul.
**I was provided a copy of this book by Baker Publishing Group for review. All opinions are honest and my own.
February 13, 2019
If you feel like you are going through a spiritual dry spell or you feel like there is just something missing in your faith walk, this is a good book to work through. It is not a feel good, three minute a day devotional. It is an intensive thirty day journey of developing a deeper connection with God. Not that a mere thirty days will do it. This is a book to be read over and over as the journey is an ongoing one.
There are many essays that particularly moved me. One was about the heart, creating space for God and guarding that space against those things that deplete it. Another was about choosing life-giving pursuits rather than our digital devices. Yet another was about connecting with the Spirit, that it takes awareness and intention.
Each essay is a combination of encouragement, teaching, and correction. Marr helps us understand how we connect with God and what we can do to hear His quiet voice. She provides questions that are thought provoking and good for journaling. She also provides a written prayer asking God to help us in the areas we've just read about.
I am impressed with the depth of teaching in this book. It is one I'll read over and over as I pursue a deeper connection with God, making room for Him in the big and small moments of life.
I received a complimentary egalley from the publisher my comments are an independent and honest review.
There are many essays that particularly moved me. One was about the heart, creating space for God and guarding that space against those things that deplete it. Another was about choosing life-giving pursuits rather than our digital devices. Yet another was about connecting with the Spirit, that it takes awareness and intention.
Each essay is a combination of encouragement, teaching, and correction. Marr helps us understand how we connect with God and what we can do to hear His quiet voice. She provides questions that are thought provoking and good for journaling. She also provides a written prayer asking God to help us in the areas we've just read about.
I am impressed with the depth of teaching in this book. It is one I'll read over and over as I pursue a deeper connection with God, making room for Him in the big and small moments of life.
I received a complimentary egalley from the publisher my comments are an independent and honest review.
January 30, 2019
"Whispers and Wildflowers" is a lovely journey to a place where we can hear God's voice and we can respond without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by the world. The author ushers in the reader with a heartfelt note at the top of each devotional and continues to draw the reader out into a time of reflection and change. Sarah Marr uses gardening metaphors to head the chapters and continues to use the imagery of wildflowers throughout the book. She is also a former ballet dancer who also uses the celebration aspect of dance to illustrate the freedom we receive as we let go of our worldly
responsibilities and seek after the greater thing that brings the most joy--God!
This book would be a lovely gift to give someone in need of a reminder to take some time alone each day to be with the Lord. The 30 day devotional is rich in detail, beautifully illustrated with bright colors that encouraged me to seek more beauty amidst the hustle and bustle of the world. I also appreciated the weight of the paper, as I am someone who likes the tactile feel of a book and often notice the quality of the pages. It's truly a lovely book.
I enjoyed the opportunity to be an early reader and am thankful I got the chance to review with an early copy. All honest opinions are my own.
responsibilities and seek after the greater thing that brings the most joy--God!
This book would be a lovely gift to give someone in need of a reminder to take some time alone each day to be with the Lord. The 30 day devotional is rich in detail, beautifully illustrated with bright colors that encouraged me to seek more beauty amidst the hustle and bustle of the world. I also appreciated the weight of the paper, as I am someone who likes the tactile feel of a book and often notice the quality of the pages. It's truly a lovely book.
I enjoyed the opportunity to be an early reader and am thankful I got the chance to review with an early copy. All honest opinions are my own.
February 14, 2019
My very first thought was, "This book is gorgeous!" Isn't the cover just beautiful. I was so attracted to the book because of the cover. Then I opened it and found beautiful biblically based devotionals that were both encouraging and challenging. Sarah Beth draws from scripture, her personal life experiences, others' experiences etc to weave a beautiful text that is easy to read and understand. I found myself wanting to spend time quietly with the Lord and let him into the garden of my heart. The prayers are great and the reflection questions are perfectly paired with the devotionals. They help the reader connect with the Lord on an intimate level. I did feel the devotionals were a little long. They could have been shortened a bit and not lose any effectiveness. Other than that I loved this book.
I received a copy from the publisher. I was in no way required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a copy from the publisher. I was in no way required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
February 23, 2019
Although Sarah Beth says that you could read this daily or in one or two sittings, I would definitely recommend reading this daily instead of moving through multiple days at a time. If you intentionally linger over the questions and take time to record (or think through) your response, you’ll take much more away from the book than if you only read the daily entries.
Each day includes a “thought for the day,” a key Scripture, a short entry from Sarah Beth, a prayer, and three or four questions to answer.
The daily themes/topics build upon one another, so you’ll want to work through the book in order. Personally, I found it to be too general/broad, lacking depth in the short entries. However, I agree with this sentence from the Amazon description because if you don’t have time to go deeper, this is better than nothing:
“Any woman who feels distracted, burnt out, depleted, or overwhelmed will find in Marr a gentle and uplifting guide to greater personal peace and simplicity.”
Each day includes a “thought for the day,” a key Scripture, a short entry from Sarah Beth, a prayer, and three or four questions to answer.
The daily themes/topics build upon one another, so you’ll want to work through the book in order. Personally, I found it to be too general/broad, lacking depth in the short entries. However, I agree with this sentence from the Amazon description because if you don’t have time to go deeper, this is better than nothing:
“Any woman who feels distracted, burnt out, depleted, or overwhelmed will find in Marr a gentle and uplifting guide to greater personal peace and simplicity.”
February 5, 2019
For someone who may struggle with the concept of being still and finding time to practice the art of stillness and solitude during the day, I feel like this book was so helpful. This book has 30 days worth of devotions and each is short enough that it doesn’t require a large time commitment, but also filled with a lovely amount of hand picked Bible verses and quotes that it allows the reader to really dig into the Word of God and hear what God needs to speak over them. The author has a refreshing style of writing that draws in the reader and sets their heart and mind at peace as they read. Such a fantastic read as the year begins or as the reader approaches Easter and lent. So thankful for this author and how she shares these thoughts with her reader.
I was gratefully given an early copy to read so that I could post my honest thoughts.
I was gratefully given an early copy to read so that I could post my honest thoughts.
February 7, 2019
Whispers and Wildflowers helps us retreat to the very heart of God. Sarah Beth Marr’s writing is immensely special to me, as she speaks and lives as God’s precious vessel. Her new book helps us draw ever closer to Jesus, encouraging us and teaching us to live in His heavenly peace amidst life’s chaos. Stemming from that is the joy unspeakable we long for, which can only come from being ever present with God. This daily retreat to God helps us to dig deeper and grow closer to Him. Sarah’s book not only helps us to become who God created us to uniquely be, but as such it helps us to become better reflections of our dear Savior.
Decked with wildflowers… is there a lovelier beginning to a life-changing journey closer to God? Sarah once again helps us lean into the heartbeat of the One who loves beyond measure. This book is a gift with eternal impact, written with beauty and grace.
Decked with wildflowers… is there a lovelier beginning to a life-changing journey closer to God? Sarah once again helps us lean into the heartbeat of the One who loves beyond measure. This book is a gift with eternal impact, written with beauty and grace.
February 13, 2019
Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 Days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture, & Draw Closer to God is a Christian devotional by Sarah Beth Marr. The book delivers many important lessons, including those on topics such as listening, finding strength, being restored, and growing in grace. It is a 30-day journal, and each day features a Scripture-based lesson, reflection questions with space for you to write and answer the questions, and a prayer. One of my favorite days was Day 11, “Still Waters,” which focuses on the theme of stillness throughout Scripture. Another favorite day was Day 28, “Simplify,” which talks about simplifying our lives in this busy world. The book has a very peaceful tone, and it is a comforting devotional that women can use during their quiet times.
I received this book for review.
I received this book for review.
February 15, 2019
Sarah Beth Marr’s new book Whispers and Wildflowers has a subtitle, 30 Days to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture & Draw Closer to God. She intertwines two major analogies in her book: one of dance and the other of gardening. Marr was a professional ballerina for more than fifteen years, so the dancing analogy comes easily to her, but works well in communicating what it means for people to dance through life with Jesus. The gardening analogy also works for her as she leads her readers to allow God to tend to their soul, weed out the issues that stunt growth, and help them to flourish. She sets up her book as a devotional journal, with Scripture and meditation on a theme for each chapter, and then “Garden Moments for your soul” at the end of the chapter that help the reader apply the theme of that chapter.
5 stars
Mary Lou Codman-Wilson, Ph.D, 2/15/19
5 stars
Mary Lou Codman-Wilson, Ph.D, 2/15/19
June 3, 2019
Whispers and Wildflowers is a 30 day devotional, but it can easily be read straight through. Each devotion has a section for reflection and prayer, which makes it the perfect book to use during daily Bible reading. This beautiful book offers up peace and inspiration as the author strives to help the reader have a closer relationship with God. The devotions are nature themed and perfect for the spring and summer seasons. The author's approach is soothing and calming and she speaks to her readers as friends. I really enjoyed this book and couldn't wait to read more so I read it straight through instead of using it as a daily devotional. Thank you so much to BakerBooks for the chance to read and review this book!
June 25, 2019
It's a rare day when I add a book to the shelf entitled books that changed my life. This is one of those books. I didn't realize how spiritually dry and afraid of the next season I was until I read "Whispers and Wildflowers: 30 Day to Slow Your Pace, Savor Scripture & Draw Closer to God" by Sarah Beth Marr. I'm glad I savored the book and didn't read it 30 days in a row. In fact, it took me MONTHS, but it was well worth the deepening that took place within my heart, mind, body, and soul as I went along on a journey to discover what was holding me back from hearing God's voice.
*I received a free copy from Baker Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
*I received a free copy from Baker Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2019
If you are looking for a devotional to enhance your quiet time, this is it. Whispers and Wildflowers is filled with thoughtful reflections for daily life. It is an invitation to look inward and take notice of what God is doing. Each devotional ends with thoughtful reflection questions that encourage the reader to take inventory of their hearts and lives. Sarah also includes a prayer for each day and space for journaling your own personal reflections and prayers. Her daily devotions have been a balm for my soul, reminding me to take the time to breathe deeply and savor my time with the Lord.
February 6, 2019
This was a beautiful book writing, encouraging and inspiring to read with that also challenge for all of us, take a break or a moment to strategically set aside something, anything, that will give your soul a break while you work, finding yourself a quite space in the deep of yours heart listening and following to God’s whispers and experience his love and grace in a fresh way. I highly recommend to everyone must to read this book. “ I received complimentary a copy of this book from Baker Book Blogger for this review”.
February 10, 2019
(I received a free copy from the publisher for review) This is a book that is set up for you to complete in 30 days you can of course finish it quicker than that.I like how each chapter was pretty short so it would not take long to get through one,I think it is nice that she gave you questions,prayers I did not read the prayers but I think that is great.I like how she used experiences from her own life in some of the chapters.I think that this is a great book for women I think the cover its pretty and the materiel of the cover is different.
February 15, 2019
First, the cover is beautiful. Second, the content is soul quenching. I love devotionals that allow you to go at your own pace and are pressure free. Whispers and Wildflowers allows you the freedom to really drink in the words and scripture. There are question prompts after each devotion where space is provided to write your thoughts. Then a thoughtful prayer which leads us into our own time with the Lord. It is a perfect set up to dig deeper with Jesus. I'm grateful to the publisher for providing me a copy of this book for my honest review. It's honestly a great devotional.
April 8, 2019
This book of daily thoughts is self care for your heart, mind, and soul. It really does help you to savor scripture and strengthen your relationship with God.
Sarah Beth Marr's writing style is soothing and appealing, as well as heart tugging at times, motivating you to stop and process, interact, and improve your spiritual life and grow.
The book uses many gardening and floral images to help whisper the concepts in meaningful ways. I enjoyed it and will re-read it to savor again. I found it compelling and encouraging.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to review.
Sarah Beth Marr's writing style is soothing and appealing, as well as heart tugging at times, motivating you to stop and process, interact, and improve your spiritual life and grow.
The book uses many gardening and floral images to help whisper the concepts in meaningful ways. I enjoyed it and will re-read it to savor again. I found it compelling and encouraging.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to review.
May 5, 2019
Whispers and Wildflowers calls you to a life of intimacy with Jesus...by slowing you down enough to remember that's what you need the most. Although it seemed a bit repetitive in parts, I truly appreciated the author's authenticity about her own faith and use of real life examples. The parts that spoke to me the most were the times she intentionally drew our attention back to the basics of God's presence with us in every day mother-hood, laundry-filled, distracted life. Beautifully designed and structured well (with space to journal and pray).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews