What do you think?
Rate this book
Strong, Brave, Loved: Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are
Bestselling author Holley Gerth feels like your best friend, your supportive sister, and your biggest cheerleader. She understands that you want to be a woman who looks life in the face and says, "You can't beat me." A woman who knows love is a risk and reaches out anyway. A woman who understands kindness takes real courage. Who doesn't fake it or try to hide her scars. Who fights to believe she is who God says she is and helps others do the same.
Strong, Brave, Loved offers 60 short devotions to empower you to be that kind of woman. It's simple, personal, and practical, with room for you to journal your own responses and reflections. With these concise and compassionate devotions, Holley leads you on a journey of discovery as you learn to live in freedom, hope, and holy courage.
Strong, Brave, Loved offers 60 short devotions to empower you to be that kind of woman. It's simple, personal, and practical, with room for you to journal your own responses and reflections. With these concise and compassionate devotions, Holley leads you on a journey of discovery as you learn to live in freedom, hope, and holy courage.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published October 1, 2019
39 people are currently reading
1377 people want to read
About the author
Holley Gerth
65 books597 followersHolley Gerth likes humans, words, and good coffee. She's also a Wall Street Journal bestselling author with over 500,000 copies sold.
Find out more about her new release, What Your Mind Needs for Anxious Moments.
Find out more about her new release, What Your Mind Needs for Anxious Moments.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 30, 2019
Holley Gerth is one of my favorite Christian writers. I feel like she absolutely writes from the heart and gets me. She understands the struggles women are facing in the marriages, in their homes, in their careers, and in their friendships. Every single book of hers has a special spot on my shelf for quick access when I need to be uplifted.
In her newest devotional, Gerth shares 60 short, powerful, meaningful messages. At the end of each devotional, the reader is encouraged to journal in answer to a question related to that reading. With 60 messages, this could be read every day for two months, every weekday for three months, or once a week for just over a year. Or read it all in one sitting then go back and think deeper about each message, journaling when something strikes you.
So many of Gerth’s messages resonated with me, but my favorites included “Defend Your Sisters”. I just had this situation come up in my life and it broke my heart to see a friend hurting because of someone (another woman) tearing her apart. Gerth states, “…we do this without knowing, this sword that’s in our hands….let’s put our words firmly on the side of the kingdom and use them to protect, never to harm.” She then asks readers to commit “to using words to defend and heal, not to harm” as well as committing in other ways to speak encouragement and not negativity.
In another, she asks us to look for “broken pieces” in our day like “mosaics, stained glass, bits of a cookie crumbled on top of ice cream” to remind us that we too are broken and God sees us as beautiful and amazing.
I’ve frequently been chastised for being a worrier. Really, what mom isn’t??? Her devotion titled, “Wear Your Helmet” offered that Aha! moment I needed and the reminder that God can handle my worry if I just give it to him!
Gerth’s book is lovely with its simple cover and soft, non-distracting pages. There is a pretty red ribbon bookmark included to mark your pages. This book is perfect for gift-giving to ALL your girlfriends. There will be multiple devotions that will speak to your heart and every woman in your life.
In her newest devotional, Gerth shares 60 short, powerful, meaningful messages. At the end of each devotional, the reader is encouraged to journal in answer to a question related to that reading. With 60 messages, this could be read every day for two months, every weekday for three months, or once a week for just over a year. Or read it all in one sitting then go back and think deeper about each message, journaling when something strikes you.
So many of Gerth’s messages resonated with me, but my favorites included “Defend Your Sisters”. I just had this situation come up in my life and it broke my heart to see a friend hurting because of someone (another woman) tearing her apart. Gerth states, “…we do this without knowing, this sword that’s in our hands….let’s put our words firmly on the side of the kingdom and use them to protect, never to harm.” She then asks readers to commit “to using words to defend and heal, not to harm” as well as committing in other ways to speak encouragement and not negativity.
In another, she asks us to look for “broken pieces” in our day like “mosaics, stained glass, bits of a cookie crumbled on top of ice cream” to remind us that we too are broken and God sees us as beautiful and amazing.
I’ve frequently been chastised for being a worrier. Really, what mom isn’t??? Her devotion titled, “Wear Your Helmet” offered that Aha! moment I needed and the reminder that God can handle my worry if I just give it to him!
Gerth’s book is lovely with its simple cover and soft, non-distracting pages. There is a pretty red ribbon bookmark included to mark your pages. This book is perfect for gift-giving to ALL your girlfriends. There will be multiple devotions that will speak to your heart and every woman in your life.
November 2, 2019
Strong Brave Loved by Holley Gerth is another hit as far as I am concerned--such a beautiful book full of Gerth's beautiful encouragement and advice.
Strong Brave Loved has 60 chapters of interactive devotional reading. Each chapter starts with a Bible verse and then Gerth writes an uplifting short devotions written to empower you to be the kind of woman God created you to be. After each reading there is a short writing prompt with space to journal. All of the pages are also beautifully designed with 3 colors and some simple illustrations. There is also a ribbon marker to keep your place. The whole book is so pretty, as well as uplifting.
I admit I have nearly every book that Holley Gerth has released. I find that she just seems to "get me" and I relate to her writing so well. Strong Brave Loved is no exception. I feel like she is sitting across from me as a friend sharing and listening as I write in the journal. Besides the uplifting readings, I liked the design of this journal. It is beautiful and the pages are thick with plenty of space for writing in the journaling area. Strong Brave Loved would be a nice gift to encourage another woman, besides purchasing one for yourself.
I received this book from Revell Books. All opinions are my own.
Strong Brave Loved has 60 chapters of interactive devotional reading. Each chapter starts with a Bible verse and then Gerth writes an uplifting short devotions written to empower you to be the kind of woman God created you to be. After each reading there is a short writing prompt with space to journal. All of the pages are also beautifully designed with 3 colors and some simple illustrations. There is also a ribbon marker to keep your place. The whole book is so pretty, as well as uplifting.
I admit I have nearly every book that Holley Gerth has released. I find that she just seems to "get me" and I relate to her writing so well. Strong Brave Loved is no exception. I feel like she is sitting across from me as a friend sharing and listening as I write in the journal. Besides the uplifting readings, I liked the design of this journal. It is beautiful and the pages are thick with plenty of space for writing in the journaling area. Strong Brave Loved would be a nice gift to encourage another woman, besides purchasing one for yourself.
I received this book from Revell Books. All opinions are my own.
October 24, 2019
Gerth provides sixty short devotions with the aim of empowering readers to be women who can't be beat, who take risks, don't hide their scars, believe who God says they are and help others believe it too.
The style of Gerth's writing made me think I was reading her journal entries. An everyday event would trigger a Scripture verse and a lesson. The initial event might be a conversation, a group painting session, a walk on her street, or trying to be loved when meeting friends for lunch. There is a certain familiarity involved, like a friend sharing insights from a recent experience. She includes some humor, like suggesting translators ate too much pizza when she came across a puzzling Bible verse. (Loc 929/2628) Each devotion ends with a prayer, prompts for journaling, and a Fiercehearted quote of encouragement.
I don't mind a personal story from time to time, illustrating a biblical truth, but I feel I know more about Gerth's life than I ever wanted. Her devotions are more about her, it seems, than the spiritual lessons. Did I really need to know so much about Gerth's grandmother in devotion number Twenty-Six to understand the simple lesson of “Accept God's gifts with gladness”? Did I really need the paragraph describing the picture of her and her grandmother on the shelf in the living room, that the hem of her dress was caught by the wind? Do I really want to know about her stomach growling while she records the audio of a previous book? (Devotion Thirty)
This is a good devotional for readers who like to read about personal experiences and the lessons taken from them. It is also a good example of journal entries.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The style of Gerth's writing made me think I was reading her journal entries. An everyday event would trigger a Scripture verse and a lesson. The initial event might be a conversation, a group painting session, a walk on her street, or trying to be loved when meeting friends for lunch. There is a certain familiarity involved, like a friend sharing insights from a recent experience. She includes some humor, like suggesting translators ate too much pizza when she came across a puzzling Bible verse. (Loc 929/2628) Each devotion ends with a prayer, prompts for journaling, and a Fiercehearted quote of encouragement.
I don't mind a personal story from time to time, illustrating a biblical truth, but I feel I know more about Gerth's life than I ever wanted. Her devotions are more about her, it seems, than the spiritual lessons. Did I really need to know so much about Gerth's grandmother in devotion number Twenty-Six to understand the simple lesson of “Accept God's gifts with gladness”? Did I really need the paragraph describing the picture of her and her grandmother on the shelf in the living room, that the hem of her dress was caught by the wind? Do I really want to know about her stomach growling while she records the audio of a previous book? (Devotion Thirty)
This is a good devotional for readers who like to read about personal experiences and the lessons taken from them. It is also a good example of journal entries.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
September 18, 2021
I mean. I just love Holley. God really uses her to call people into relationship with Him by accepting you for who you are through His grace and His truth.
November 6, 2019
This is a devotional book that is perfect if you want to read something daily, but don’t have a lot of time. Each one is about two pages and includes a Bible verse, a story, and reflection/application space. This is great for you if you feel overwhelmed, struggling, or just kind of worn out by life. It’s about feeling strong and brave regardless of everything else that’s going on around you. It is filled with encouragement and reminders about your true identity. I think every woman will be able to make many connections with this one.
Thank you to Revell Booms for my free copy in exchange for honest thoughts.
Thank you to Revell Booms for my free copy in exchange for honest thoughts.
Read
October 13, 201960 days of Christian empowerment.
Author Holley Gerth’s 'Strong, Brave, Loved – Empowering Reminder of Who You Really Are' is a journey of encouragement for women. The 60 daily topics cover the struggles, bumps, and roadblocks that most women face in their daily lives. Each opens with a Scripture that relates to the topic and closes with encouragement to apply changes needed to the reader’s life.
The few-page devotionals cover heartfelt situations and struggles that are relatable to anyone who's ever felt less than strong, brave, or loved. Emerge from reading Strong, Brave with the determination of a Warrior Princess. However, Ms. Gerth’s lessons teach us that our strength and bravery don’t come from our own initiative, but from our reliance on a solid relationship with God.
With her easy and relatable writing style and topics, Ms. Gerth feels like the friend you’d love to have. This book is a follow-up to her prior book Fiercehearted. She shares tidbits from Fiercehearted at the end of each devotional.
How this book affected me:
As a book reviewer, I didn’t have the luxury of reading this book as intended, over the course of 60 days. I’m certain that spending the time to digest each topic and make a concerted effort to apply pertinent topics to my life would be worthwhile.
Who would enjoy this book:
Anyone who’s feeling less than strong, brave, or loved would benefit from this book. It would make a good gift for someone who’s going through a particularly tough time.
Our Christian Book Reviews:
The BOOK REVIEWS at Finding God Among Us focus on Christian books - adult and children, fiction and nonfiction. We're proud to be included in the Top 50 Christian Book Review Bloggers. I chose to read an ARC from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review is my honest opinion. I have given this book a rating of 4.5 stars on my blog, and rounded up to 5 stars when half stars are not allowed.
Author Holley Gerth’s 'Strong, Brave, Loved – Empowering Reminder of Who You Really Are' is a journey of encouragement for women. The 60 daily topics cover the struggles, bumps, and roadblocks that most women face in their daily lives. Each opens with a Scripture that relates to the topic and closes with encouragement to apply changes needed to the reader’s life.
The few-page devotionals cover heartfelt situations and struggles that are relatable to anyone who's ever felt less than strong, brave, or loved. Emerge from reading Strong, Brave with the determination of a Warrior Princess. However, Ms. Gerth’s lessons teach us that our strength and bravery don’t come from our own initiative, but from our reliance on a solid relationship with God.
With her easy and relatable writing style and topics, Ms. Gerth feels like the friend you’d love to have. This book is a follow-up to her prior book Fiercehearted. She shares tidbits from Fiercehearted at the end of each devotional.
How this book affected me:
As a book reviewer, I didn’t have the luxury of reading this book as intended, over the course of 60 days. I’m certain that spending the time to digest each topic and make a concerted effort to apply pertinent topics to my life would be worthwhile.
Who would enjoy this book:
Anyone who’s feeling less than strong, brave, or loved would benefit from this book. It would make a good gift for someone who’s going through a particularly tough time.
Our Christian Book Reviews:
The BOOK REVIEWS at Finding God Among Us focus on Christian books - adult and children, fiction and nonfiction. We're proud to be included in the Top 50 Christian Book Review Bloggers. I chose to read an ARC from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review is my honest opinion. I have given this book a rating of 4.5 stars on my blog, and rounded up to 5 stars when half stars are not allowed.
October 31, 2019
Strong, Brave, Loved: Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are by Holley Gerth rates as one of the best devotionals I’ve read this year. There are sixty short devotional thoughts and each is supported by a prayer, a reflection prompt with space to respond, and a quote from Fiercehearted, Holley Gerth’s previous book. As I understand it, Stong, Brave, Loved expands off of Fiercehearted, but it is not necessary to read Fiercehearted before Strong, Brave, Loved.
I hesitated to crack open Strong, Brave, Loved by Holley Gerth for two reasons. First, I’ve got some difficult situations in my life and I feared it might be heart-rending. Second, some Christian devotionals for women promote mentally unhealthy mindsets. Fortunately, I had a really good experience with Strong, Brave, Loved. For sure, there were pages that brought tears, but each devotional topic was full of personal honesty from the author, truth to grasp, and thoughts to empower. I underlined frequently and sometimes my response to the prompt overflowed the provided lines.
I liked that each devotional had statements taken from the text and printed in red ink that can be used as affirmations to remember or to speak over yourself if you desire to. A few examples: “I am God’s daughter. I am beloved. I have everything I need for whatever I may face. (Pg. 63)” “Joy comes when we accept who we are, when we’re true to who God made us. (Pg. 74)” “The love of God for us and the grace of God toward us will never, ever change. (Pg. 92)”
I recommend Strong, Brave, Loved: Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are by Holley Gerth to any Christian woman. It’s the second book I’ve read by Holley Gerth and I want to go back and read them all!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
I hesitated to crack open Strong, Brave, Loved by Holley Gerth for two reasons. First, I’ve got some difficult situations in my life and I feared it might be heart-rending. Second, some Christian devotionals for women promote mentally unhealthy mindsets. Fortunately, I had a really good experience with Strong, Brave, Loved. For sure, there were pages that brought tears, but each devotional topic was full of personal honesty from the author, truth to grasp, and thoughts to empower. I underlined frequently and sometimes my response to the prompt overflowed the provided lines.
I liked that each devotional had statements taken from the text and printed in red ink that can be used as affirmations to remember or to speak over yourself if you desire to. A few examples: “I am God’s daughter. I am beloved. I have everything I need for whatever I may face. (Pg. 63)” “Joy comes when we accept who we are, when we’re true to who God made us. (Pg. 74)” “The love of God for us and the grace of God toward us will never, ever change. (Pg. 92)”
I recommend Strong, Brave, Loved: Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are by Holley Gerth to any Christian woman. It’s the second book I’ve read by Holley Gerth and I want to go back and read them all!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
September 28, 2019
THIS BOOK IS BEAUTIFUL!!! The gold is just gorgeous with the red flowers. I know we shouldn't judge books by their cover but how can you not when it's that gorgeous. It's simple and feminine and just excellently designed. Then you open the book and the "devotionals" are so good too! Now I put devotionals in quotes because they're not full devotionals in my mind. They're more encouragement with a little scripture and a prayer thrown in with each passage. I don't know if I would type this book as a devotional. That said, I love the writing. It's encouraging. It's motivating. It's empowering. I love it. It's very practical, which is awesome. And it's relevant. The topics covered are ones women today are hit with from all sides. The questions at the end of each passage are great for reflection and processing where you can apply what you just read to your own life. I found many things I wanted to underline. Many moments where I found myself saying, "YES!" "I need this!" One of my favorite lines came in passage Sixteen. It says, "What we really need from each other is not a pared-down version of ourselves that's been polished and carefully presented. We need to be true to who we are, to show up as is, because that's the only way we actually feel less alone." I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars. It's great. Pick it up and read it often. Your life will be better for it. I received a copy of this book from Revell. I was in no way required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
September 30, 2019
“I am God’s daughter. I am beloved. I have everything I need for whatever I may face.”
Strong Brave Loved is a powerful sixty day devotional. Each day includes a scripture verse, a two page devotional, a prayer, space to journal, and a quote from Holley Gerth’s previous book, Fiercehearted. This devotional has a central message that all women need to hear and embrace! We as women need to reach out and take hold of who God says we are, and use this knowledge to empower us daily though the struggles of life. This would be the perfect book to start out the day because each reading is short, encouraging, and helps you to reflect on God’s word.
It was very difficult to choose just a few quotes to share, because there were so many nuggets of truth that stood out to me. But some of my favorite quotes included:
“Sometimes the bravest move is to stay where you are and simply see what God will do.”
“We are warriors disguised in tennis shoes and yoga pants.”
“Bravery is just faith dancing the two-step with doubt.”
“In our highest highs and lowest lows, God and those around us remember we are human. We’re wise to do the same.”
“We are not worriers, we are warriors.”
“Life is hard, but our hearts do not have to be…because of Jesus.”
I would recommend this book for any woman who needs to be reminded of their value in God’s eyes. You are worthy, free, courageous, loved, and filled with the Holy Spirit!
I received a copy of this book from the Revell Reads Blogger program, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Strong Brave Loved is a powerful sixty day devotional. Each day includes a scripture verse, a two page devotional, a prayer, space to journal, and a quote from Holley Gerth’s previous book, Fiercehearted. This devotional has a central message that all women need to hear and embrace! We as women need to reach out and take hold of who God says we are, and use this knowledge to empower us daily though the struggles of life. This would be the perfect book to start out the day because each reading is short, encouraging, and helps you to reflect on God’s word.
It was very difficult to choose just a few quotes to share, because there were so many nuggets of truth that stood out to me. But some of my favorite quotes included:
“Sometimes the bravest move is to stay where you are and simply see what God will do.”
“We are warriors disguised in tennis shoes and yoga pants.”
“Bravery is just faith dancing the two-step with doubt.”
“In our highest highs and lowest lows, God and those around us remember we are human. We’re wise to do the same.”
“We are not worriers, we are warriors.”
“Life is hard, but our hearts do not have to be…because of Jesus.”
I would recommend this book for any woman who needs to be reminded of their value in God’s eyes. You are worthy, free, courageous, loved, and filled with the Holy Spirit!
I received a copy of this book from the Revell Reads Blogger program, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 10, 2019
I have not read any other book that did more to encourage me in my daily life and my walk with the Lord than this one.! The cover is beautiful and enticing, but it’s the contents that spoke directly to my heart. The words spoke to the woman in me who needed to know that I am a strong woman of God, not to be defeated by any of the enemy’s darts that come against me. With sixty themed devotionals, Holley Gerth has reached out to each of us and confirmed the truth that God has already put into our hearts. We are “Strong, Brave and Loved.” At the end of each devotion is a time to reflect and to write how you are feeling about the truths you have encountered there. There are also quotations from the author’s previous book, FIERCEHEARTED. I think that this book is meant to be a companion to the other one, but I read it without reading the first one and was totally touched by the author’s honest tackling of real struggles in our lives. I did not identify with each part of the book, but I identified with enough of them that I can highly recommend this book to all Christian women, as a book to encourage and reflect on defeats, victories and how to continually be victorious.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from #Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from #Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
October 6, 2019
60 days of encouragement your heart deserves
“If you ever get a little tired of life’s battles, this is for you.”
What perfect timing for the release of this beautiful devotional. Spend just a few minutes each day soaking up God’s Word, and the author’s encouragement, and head into the Christmas season and new year feeling strong, brave and loved.
I’ve just started this devotional and here’s a snippet from “Joy Guarding”, my favorite day so far. As a special-needs momma, my heart was eager to hear these words of encouragement:
“We’ve all probably had well-meaning people say “just be joyful!”…As if the moment we decided to follow Jesus our lives would be cotton-candy happy forever, so we should just get with the program. But here’s the truth: Joy requires all-out war. Every day. For the rest of our lives.….“God is with us, for us, and on our side. He is even more committed to our victory than we are”.
I love the journaling pages that are included in this devotional. It’s the perfect size book to carry in your purse or set on your bedside table. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to give copies away for Christmas. It would also be a sweet surprise for a friend any day of the year.
“If you ever get a little tired of life’s battles, this is for you.”
What perfect timing for the release of this beautiful devotional. Spend just a few minutes each day soaking up God’s Word, and the author’s encouragement, and head into the Christmas season and new year feeling strong, brave and loved.
I’ve just started this devotional and here’s a snippet from “Joy Guarding”, my favorite day so far. As a special-needs momma, my heart was eager to hear these words of encouragement:
“We’ve all probably had well-meaning people say “just be joyful!”…As if the moment we decided to follow Jesus our lives would be cotton-candy happy forever, so we should just get with the program. But here’s the truth: Joy requires all-out war. Every day. For the rest of our lives.….“God is with us, for us, and on our side. He is even more committed to our victory than we are”.
I love the journaling pages that are included in this devotional. It’s the perfect size book to carry in your purse or set on your bedside table. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to give copies away for Christmas. It would also be a sweet surprise for a friend any day of the year.
October 19, 2019
Holley Gerth is on of my favorite authors who I can count on to be sound in her Biblical teachings and she always seems to come out with a new book at the precise time that I need encouragement.
This is a wonderful devotional that ties into her book, Fiercehearted, another book I loved and would highly recommend. She shares from her heart on each page and then has journaling space for us to do the same. If you've read my reviews before, you know that I love when an author thinks of her reader and provides the space to jot down our own thoughts.
Each devotional is full of Scripture and encouragement. There are also prayers that touched my heart and gave me a start to my own prayers. There are beautiful graphics inside this beautiful book making it a wonderful gift for someone or yourself. It's just a beautiful book to hold and look at. When you add all the beautiful words inside that encourage a closer walk with the Lord, it's the perfect book, in my opinion.
This book will bring you joy and I highly recommend it. I give it 5 stars!
*This book was provided to me by Revell. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.
This is a wonderful devotional that ties into her book, Fiercehearted, another book I loved and would highly recommend. She shares from her heart on each page and then has journaling space for us to do the same. If you've read my reviews before, you know that I love when an author thinks of her reader and provides the space to jot down our own thoughts.
Each devotional is full of Scripture and encouragement. There are also prayers that touched my heart and gave me a start to my own prayers. There are beautiful graphics inside this beautiful book making it a wonderful gift for someone or yourself. It's just a beautiful book to hold and look at. When you add all the beautiful words inside that encourage a closer walk with the Lord, it's the perfect book, in my opinion.
This book will bring you joy and I highly recommend it. I give it 5 stars!
*This book was provided to me by Revell. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.
October 20, 2019
At first glance Strong Brave Loved looks like many other devotionals currently on the shelves. Each chapter consists of an opening focus verse, 2-3 pages of personal story and explanation of the verse, a short prayer, and a reflective section consisting of story and room for notes. Wrapped up in a hard cover with attached bookmark (seriously one of my favourite inventions ever), it's a familiar presentation.
However, it's Holley's presentation and communication that make this devotional stand out. Holley presents bold truths wrapped up in a grace so fierce you can feel the care she holds for her message and her readers. Holley's not afraid to get into the messiness of identity and societal lies carefully drawing her readers back to scripture and pointing out the unflinching mercy and love spoken out again and again.
This feels a little like a basic truths theme, things we should know but often forget in the face of life. Holley's clear writing style and open vulnerability make the lessons accessible as she presents each reading as a partnership something not to be done alone but with other women in faith.
4.5 out of 5 stars
I received this book through the Revell Reads Book Tour in exchange for my honest opinion.
However, it's Holley's presentation and communication that make this devotional stand out. Holley presents bold truths wrapped up in a grace so fierce you can feel the care she holds for her message and her readers. Holley's not afraid to get into the messiness of identity and societal lies carefully drawing her readers back to scripture and pointing out the unflinching mercy and love spoken out again and again.
This feels a little like a basic truths theme, things we should know but often forget in the face of life. Holley's clear writing style and open vulnerability make the lessons accessible as she presents each reading as a partnership something not to be done alone but with other women in faith.
4.5 out of 5 stars
I received this book through the Revell Reads Book Tour in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 1, 2019
Holley Gerth is a speaker and author but it is apparent that she is, first of all, a child of God. In the last devotion of this new book, she tells us that we '...all are living a story today. A story crafted and told by the Author of heaven. The star-scatterer. The mountain mover. The water walker. It is a story of being braved and strong and loved. A story of, most of all, love.' (p. 224)
Don't these words make you want to read more? I hope so because it is such a wonderful book! It is very attractive with beautifully illustrated pages, a hardback cover, and a bookmark ribbon but more importantly, the words inside will feed your soul with their encouragement and inspiration. Strong Brave Loved has sixty short devotions that speak to women of all ages and I especially like that each devotion includes God's Word, a short prayer, and space for me to write my personal thoughts and observations.
This book is a perfect addition to your personal devotion time but it would also make a wonderful gift! I highly recommend Strong Brave Loved.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. A positive review was not required and I received no financial compensation. These are my own opinions.
Don't these words make you want to read more? I hope so because it is such a wonderful book! It is very attractive with beautifully illustrated pages, a hardback cover, and a bookmark ribbon but more importantly, the words inside will feed your soul with their encouragement and inspiration. Strong Brave Loved has sixty short devotions that speak to women of all ages and I especially like that each devotion includes God's Word, a short prayer, and space for me to write my personal thoughts and observations.
This book is a perfect addition to your personal devotion time but it would also make a wonderful gift! I highly recommend Strong Brave Loved.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. A positive review was not required and I received no financial compensation. These are my own opinions.
October 26, 2019
Read my full review at: https://grzybee.weebly.com/book-revie...
Oh my word! You guys, this book is gorgeous. I opened the package and gasped. This book is first of all hardcover, but doesn't have a dust jacket (thank you! they are annoying) and the image on the front is textured. Then I opened the cover, and oh my word, it was this beautiful paper with flowers *sigh* Also, if this isn't the icing on the cake, I don't know what is! It has a red silky ribbon bookmark. Whoever put this book together did a wonderful job of making it feel feminine and beautiful as well as well thought out...I mean I am always looking for a bookmark and this has one included...genius.
So, enough about the book and onto the content. What a read. This book is a 60 day journey to becoming more confident, not only as a woman, but as a Jesus follower. Each chapter is a sweet, short, engaging read. At the end there is a prayer and then a question to reflect on as well as space to write those reflections. The writing was relatable, down to earth, very easy to understand and easy to apply it to one's own life.
Oh my word! You guys, this book is gorgeous. I opened the package and gasped. This book is first of all hardcover, but doesn't have a dust jacket (thank you! they are annoying) and the image on the front is textured. Then I opened the cover, and oh my word, it was this beautiful paper with flowers *sigh* Also, if this isn't the icing on the cake, I don't know what is! It has a red silky ribbon bookmark. Whoever put this book together did a wonderful job of making it feel feminine and beautiful as well as well thought out...I mean I am always looking for a bookmark and this has one included...genius.
So, enough about the book and onto the content. What a read. This book is a 60 day journey to becoming more confident, not only as a woman, but as a Jesus follower. Each chapter is a sweet, short, engaging read. At the end there is a prayer and then a question to reflect on as well as space to write those reflections. The writing was relatable, down to earth, very easy to understand and easy to apply it to one's own life.
November 5, 2019
When I was given a chance to review this book, I thought to myself, "Oh wow! A book by Holly Gerth! Well this is a no-brainer." Then when I received it, I was speechless. This book is so beautiful! It is called Strong Brave Loved" by Holly Gerth.
She speaks of how we can be just as the title says; strong, brave and loved. The words written by Holly, the author, are so empowering and great to remind us that we don't need to be down in the dumps because we are God's daughters. There is something I've needed to hear for the longest time and the author seems to have a way of pointing that out to me.
I know it may seem weird but I feel like she had me in mind when she wrote this book. There are so many truths that need to be heard from God. I feel that through her words, God is going to speak a lot of truths to many women out there. If you are reading this, just know that I think this book would benefit you as it has done for me. It is also definitely worth going through again.
Please note: I was given a copy of this book for review by the Revell Reads Book Review Program. All thoughts in this review are my own
She speaks of how we can be just as the title says; strong, brave and loved. The words written by Holly, the author, are so empowering and great to remind us that we don't need to be down in the dumps because we are God's daughters. There is something I've needed to hear for the longest time and the author seems to have a way of pointing that out to me.
I know it may seem weird but I feel like she had me in mind when she wrote this book. There are so many truths that need to be heard from God. I feel that through her words, God is going to speak a lot of truths to many women out there. If you are reading this, just know that I think this book would benefit you as it has done for me. It is also definitely worth going through again.
Please note: I was given a copy of this book for review by the Revell Reads Book Review Program. All thoughts in this review are my own
November 6, 2019
Do you ever feel like you are on the battlefield and it's not going the way you hoped? I know I have! When you need words of encouragement, strength and hope, open the pages of Strong Brave Loved. You will find 60 devotionals that will empower you to keep going, fight hard and be courageous. Each devotional has scripture behind it and ends with a prayer and thought provoking question. It's a book that reveals your scars, acknowledges your wounds and gives you the battle cry to fight back and keep going.
Holley reveals the "behind the scenes" of real life which we often try to mask. Instead of cover it up, she gives us scripture to get back up and fight for who God says we are! Reading this in the morning to start my day has given me the tools to take on whatever the day brings at me. As I'm reading I think "how did she know what was going through my head" or "there are others who feel the same as I do". I strongly encourage you to join me in reading this daily devotional and together we can stand Strong, be Brave and feel Loved.
Get ready to be the Strong Brave Loved woman that God created you to be!
Holley reveals the "behind the scenes" of real life which we often try to mask. Instead of cover it up, she gives us scripture to get back up and fight for who God says we are! Reading this in the morning to start my day has given me the tools to take on whatever the day brings at me. As I'm reading I think "how did she know what was going through my head" or "there are others who feel the same as I do". I strongly encourage you to join me in reading this daily devotional and together we can stand Strong, be Brave and feel Loved.
Get ready to be the Strong Brave Loved woman that God created you to be!
January 12, 2020
Empowering Devotional
Strong Brave Loved by Holly Gerth
—Empowering reminders of who you really are
Women need women and that’s exactly what this devotional provides. Support, encouragement, and a cheerleader. Holley Gerth has written 60 short devotions ranging on a variety of topics to help today’s women empower themselves to rise above scars, hurts, and fears.
Strong Brave Loved is a delight. I enjoyed reading the devotions in this book. There are a great range of different themes that gave me encouragement each day. Every devotion includes a verse, prayer, and an inspiring ending from excerpts from her other book, Fiercehearted.
There are also lines to write your own thoughts on what you’ve just read. This is a great way for the reader to express what they’re feeling as they go through challenges in life or also a place to write praises.
Another encouraging book of encouragement from this amazing author.
I give Strong Brave Loved five stars. Readers will want to start or end their day with these devotions!
**E-book has been provided courtesy of Revell, NetGalley, and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. in exchange for my honest review.
Strong Brave Loved by Holly Gerth
—Empowering reminders of who you really are
Women need women and that’s exactly what this devotional provides. Support, encouragement, and a cheerleader. Holley Gerth has written 60 short devotions ranging on a variety of topics to help today’s women empower themselves to rise above scars, hurts, and fears.
Strong Brave Loved is a delight. I enjoyed reading the devotions in this book. There are a great range of different themes that gave me encouragement each day. Every devotion includes a verse, prayer, and an inspiring ending from excerpts from her other book, Fiercehearted.
There are also lines to write your own thoughts on what you’ve just read. This is a great way for the reader to express what they’re feeling as they go through challenges in life or also a place to write praises.
Another encouraging book of encouragement from this amazing author.
I give Strong Brave Loved five stars. Readers will want to start or end their day with these devotions!
**E-book has been provided courtesy of Revell, NetGalley, and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. in exchange for my honest review.
November 3, 2019
First Reviewed here: http://belovedgraceful-carissasbooksh...
Title: Strong, Brave, Loved: Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are
Author: Holly Gerth
Pages:240
Genre: Non fiction
Rating: 4 stars
Publisher: Revell
Strong, Brave, Loved is a collection of short devotions by Holly Gerth to be used to remind you as a woman that you are who God says you are. That as a believer you are a child of His and He loves you. You don’t have to hide you scars He sees them and He still loves you.
Again this is a book that I didn’t know that I needed until I started reading it. I loved the journaling spots at the end of each devotional that gives you space to write your own thoughts and reflections on what you just read. But more importantly Holly uses a Bible to base each day’s devotion on. It seems to me like that is book is designed to read one devotion a day not read it all the way through like I did so it would a two-month devotional. But also you could just read certain ones when you needed a reminder.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher a part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Title: Strong, Brave, Loved: Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are
Author: Holly Gerth
Pages:240
Genre: Non fiction
Rating: 4 stars
Publisher: Revell
Strong, Brave, Loved is a collection of short devotions by Holly Gerth to be used to remind you as a woman that you are who God says you are. That as a believer you are a child of His and He loves you. You don’t have to hide you scars He sees them and He still loves you.
Again this is a book that I didn’t know that I needed until I started reading it. I loved the journaling spots at the end of each devotional that gives you space to write your own thoughts and reflections on what you just read. But more importantly Holly uses a Bible to base each day’s devotion on. It seems to me like that is book is designed to read one devotion a day not read it all the way through like I did so it would a two-month devotional. But also you could just read certain ones when you needed a reminder.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher a part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
November 5, 2019
Holley Gerth is one of my favorite writers and when I saw she was coming out with a devotional book, I was so excited! Strong, Braved, Loved - Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are is one of the best devotionals I have read this year. Not only is it just a beautiful book to look at/through, but the content will be such an encouragement to so many women! There are 60 short devotions in this book and each one contains a verse, a short personal story and application of verse, a prayer and then my favorite…an encouraging reflective section with ample journaling space to record your thoughts on the truths you just read. The truths in this book teach us that being strong, braved, and loved do not come from our own strength, but from having a solid relationship with Christ and relying on Him. I am planning on reading through this again in the coming year and will be gifting this to friends and family throughout the holidays!
I received a free copy of this book from Revell Reads for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from Revell Reads for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 13, 2019
This is a wonderful hardback book with 60! short devotions to empower and remind you of you are in Christ.
I love devotional books! Devotions that uplift, heal and help one to understand God's heart.
God loves us SO, SO much and Holley Gerth brings tat message in this book Strong Brave Loved.
I loved chapter Fourteen. I Am An Awkward Runner. This is totally true in my "real" life. I run at an awkward angle, I tired easily and I may not run like a true runner but, you know what? I keep at the race. I run though I am tired. I run though I am not the first place winner. I run to the prize of the high calling of Christ!
This is one of those devotional books that makes a wonderful gift. Not just because it's a beautiful cover but because of the words that are presented in the inside of the book.
This is truly an uplifting read!
*This book was provided for review by Revell Nonfiction Publications*
I love devotional books! Devotions that uplift, heal and help one to understand God's heart.
God loves us SO, SO much and Holley Gerth brings tat message in this book Strong Brave Loved.
I loved chapter Fourteen. I Am An Awkward Runner. This is totally true in my "real" life. I run at an awkward angle, I tired easily and I may not run like a true runner but, you know what? I keep at the race. I run though I am tired. I run though I am not the first place winner. I run to the prize of the high calling of Christ!
This is one of those devotional books that makes a wonderful gift. Not just because it's a beautiful cover but because of the words that are presented in the inside of the book.
This is truly an uplifting read!
*This book was provided for review by Revell Nonfiction Publications*
October 13, 2019
Strong, Brave, Loved: Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are by Holley Gerth is a beautiful book! This gorgeous book is amazing not only on the outside, but the inside too. The devotionals in this book are too good not to miss. I love how each of these devotions are filled with encouragement through scripture and prayer. I feel empowered and love by each and every single devotion. Holley Gerth is the real deal. I had the opportunity to do a live chat with her a couple of years ago. Her heart is pure gold. What you read is what you hear from her in person. Her heart spills into her writing and she is just real/ honest. This book came at a perfect season in life where I was looking for real encouragement to help me in a season where I have felt deep shame and hurt. This devotional is the perfect book in helping the reader feel loved and real. I highly recommend this devotional for any woman or even as a gift.
October 2, 2019
This devotional pairs really well with Holley Gerth's book Fiercehearted. The beginning page before the introduction has a declaration of a fiercehearted woman.
There are sixty devotionals in this hardcover book. I truly like the format. Each devotional has about two pages of script followed by a short prayer. Each also begins with a Scripture. It wraps up with a question or thoughtful declaration and lined pages for journaling your heart or thoughts. Throughout the book are pages with a flower and a quote from Fiercehearted on them. This artwork adds beauty and a gentle sigh of savoring to the pages of the book!
If you're searching for a new devotional or encouraging words to help you when life feels big and overwhelming, hurtful or hard, Strong Brave Loved will cheer you on!
I received a copy to review and all opinions are completely my own.
There are sixty devotionals in this hardcover book. I truly like the format. Each devotional has about two pages of script followed by a short prayer. Each also begins with a Scripture. It wraps up with a question or thoughtful declaration and lined pages for journaling your heart or thoughts. Throughout the book are pages with a flower and a quote from Fiercehearted on them. This artwork adds beauty and a gentle sigh of savoring to the pages of the book!
If you're searching for a new devotional or encouraging words to help you when life feels big and overwhelming, hurtful or hard, Strong Brave Loved will cheer you on!
I received a copy to review and all opinions are completely my own.
October 17, 2019
I was so excited to receive a copy of “Strong Brave Loved: Empowering Reminders of Who You Really Are” by Holley Gerth. I just knew that this was going to be a great devotional. And I am not disappointed at all. The devotional is hardcover and consists of 60 devotions. In the devotions, Holley uses personal stories to help her readers relate to her and to make it feel like you are reading a letter from a friend. She also puts a scripture at the beginning of the devotions. At the end of the devotions there is space to journal. Above this space, Holley puts prompts to guide you in your journaling but you can always write whatever it is on your heart to write in that space. This devotional would make a great gift to yourself or a friend that you know needs some encouragement.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.
February 6, 2020
Although Holley Gerth is clear from the beginning of Strong, Brave, Loved that the devotional is inspired by her book Fiercehearted, as someone who has read (and obviously enjoyed) Fiercehearted multiple times, I very much appreciated that the content between the two differs. Gerth does not rework the same content or stories here but instead builds on the themes of Fiercehearted with new stories and insights.
There's something unique in the way that Gerth writes, as she comes across as a friend, mentor, and coach all at the same time. Her stories are relatable, easy to remember, and yet make you think or perhaps bring to light ideas that you've never considered before. This is a devotional I can easily see myself passing along or gifting to several women in my life, all in various life stages. If you enjoyed Fiercehearted, you'll definitely want to pick this title up.
There's something unique in the way that Gerth writes, as she comes across as a friend, mentor, and coach all at the same time. Her stories are relatable, easy to remember, and yet make you think or perhaps bring to light ideas that you've never considered before. This is a devotional I can easily see myself passing along or gifting to several women in my life, all in various life stages. If you enjoyed Fiercehearted, you'll definitely want to pick this title up.
October 8, 2019
Thank you to Revell for the free review copy. All opinions are my own.
Gerth has quickly became one of the authors books that I highly anticipate their arrival of. She is honest and vulnerable in all of her works – even through the devotionals in this book. Not only does she share her heart, but she leaves a question at the end of the devotion to help the reader examine what is in their heart.
This book also ties into her book Fiercehearted. She has reminders from this book sprinkled throughout, which I enjoy. I like that the devotion has a purpose and path. It helps the reader dig deeper into that book and take more away from it. She always writes with encouragement to become the woman that God wants you to be.
Gerth has quickly became one of the authors books that I highly anticipate their arrival of. She is honest and vulnerable in all of her works – even through the devotionals in this book. Not only does she share her heart, but she leaves a question at the end of the devotion to help the reader examine what is in their heart.
This book also ties into her book Fiercehearted. She has reminders from this book sprinkled throughout, which I enjoy. I like that the devotion has a purpose and path. It helps the reader dig deeper into that book and take more away from it. She always writes with encouragement to become the woman that God wants you to be.
November 5, 2019
Disclaimer : I LOVE Holley Gerth!! I have loved and devoured every book by her and really felt inspired and loved.
This adorable devotion style book has 60 chapters. Each chapter has a central truth that Holley teaches on, then there is an area to record thoughts or answers to her questions.
I honestly have loved reading through this book, I love how Holley writes and the passion of her words. I also love how beautiful this book is. If you have read other books by her like Fiercehearted or Hope Your Heart Needs or What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days or You are Already Amazing.
This would make a wonderful Christmas gift for a friend, sister, mother or really any woman you love!!
NOTE: I received a copy of Strong Brave Loved in exchange for an honest review.
This adorable devotion style book has 60 chapters. Each chapter has a central truth that Holley teaches on, then there is an area to record thoughts or answers to her questions.
I honestly have loved reading through this book, I love how Holley writes and the passion of her words. I also love how beautiful this book is. If you have read other books by her like Fiercehearted or Hope Your Heart Needs or What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days or You are Already Amazing.
This would make a wonderful Christmas gift for a friend, sister, mother or really any woman you love!!
NOTE: I received a copy of Strong Brave Loved in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2019
This is a FANTASTIC devotional/journal. I really identified with Holley and this book. With an easy to read format and a charming design, this is half devotional and half journal with a question for each day and space to write your answers down. I really love having the space to write my answers/thoughts down. Considering I read this over a couple days, I will be planning a reread of reading it the "proper" way very soon. My favorite chapters were days 31 and 34. They really spoke to my heart specifically. This is headed straight to my keeper shelf!
I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
November 6, 2019
I love books that are as beautiful as they are meaningful. The feminine charm of the book would make it tempting to pick up even if you missed the tagline on the back.” Encouragement to live as a woman of confidence and victory.”
The 60 devotions help you to see yourself as strong in the face of obstacles, brave in uncertainty, and loved by God. None of the readings are super long and some end with a place for journaling in response to the topics discussed. If you can bring yourself to part with it, this would be a great book for a gift.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
The 60 devotions help you to see yourself as strong in the face of obstacles, brave in uncertainty, and loved by God. None of the readings are super long and some end with a place for journaling in response to the topics discussed. If you can bring yourself to part with it, this would be a great book for a gift.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Currently reading
December 4, 2020If I read this title I think she is talking about "empowerment" and all the feminist bluff that is around, but no, this is a lovely little short book that focuses on who you are in Christ. I saw videos with this author and they were very sweet and encouraging. I enjoy her style and voice, and also that she keeps it real. I loved the therm holy courage... she also has a podcast if you want to listen too. I was in the online bible study with the author and loved her videos and insight, it was very good. I invite you to get this book with short readings every day, for 60 days!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews