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Take Heart: 100 Devotions to Seeing God When Life's Not Okay
"In this world you will have trouble," Jesus said. "But take heart, I have overcome the world."
If life hasn't turned out the way you planned, you're not alone. Cancer comes. Loved ones die. Spouses leave. Dreams slip through our fingers. Anxiety and depression steal precious seasons. But what if you knew you weren't alone in your pain, and sorrow isn't in the end of the story?
In this 100-day devotional, the (in)courage community comes alongside you when your heart is grieving, your faith is shaking, or it's just one of those mundane hard days. In these vulnerable stories, you won't find tidy bows or trite quick fixes, but you will find arrows pointing you straight to Jesus. Each day includes a key Scripture, a heartening devotion, and a prayer to remind you that God is near and hope is possible.
Let this book be like a trusted friend, wrapping your heart with comfort and assurance that you are seen. Together we can find ourselves and God again in one another's stories. Together we can take heart!
If life hasn't turned out the way you planned, you're not alone. Cancer comes. Loved ones die. Spouses leave. Dreams slip through our fingers. Anxiety and depression steal precious seasons. But what if you knew you weren't alone in your pain, and sorrow isn't in the end of the story?
In this 100-day devotional, the (in)courage community comes alongside you when your heart is grieving, your faith is shaking, or it's just one of those mundane hard days. In these vulnerable stories, you won't find tidy bows or trite quick fixes, but you will find arrows pointing you straight to Jesus. Each day includes a key Scripture, a heartening devotion, and a prayer to remind you that God is near and hope is possible.
Let this book be like a trusted friend, wrapping your heart with comfort and assurance that you are seen. Together we can find ourselves and God again in one another's stories. Together we can take heart!
288 pages, Hardcover
Published October 20, 2020
64 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
Want to read
September 30, 2020This is a great devotional! I have not finished this yet, however the devotions are perfect. I feel as if this doesn't even read like a devotion. Highly recommend this book!!
October 16, 2020
I love the way this book is set up. It has devotionals written by a variety of writers on a wide array of topics. I feel this will allow it to reach more people. I also love that there are specific prayers at the end of each devotional that is based on the topic of that devotion so if you want to pray but are unsure of what to say this will help you. If you do not have a lot of time to read each day, then that is okay because each devotional can be read separate and they aren’t really long. So far I definitely recommend this book.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.
October 11, 2020
Life isn't always like you've imagined it. Take Heart is an encouraging devotional designed to help you through hard times with Scripture and relatable stories.
What I liked:
-Some devotionals can gloss over real problems and real life. This is not one of them. It does not deny God's power over our problems, but it acknowledges that sometimes we have to walk the hard road. Thankfully, God is with us through those hard times! I highlighted this passage: "He is not surprised by your weakness, nor is He turned off by it. Instead, He longs to comfort you in it." I also made a note of "God promises that even in our pain, we are seen. We count."
- The overarching theme to these devotions would be that life is hard, but God is with you. Even through the hardest times! I appreciated that the authors shared not only their problems but their hope. I found that the writings were authentic about the pain of the challenges faced, but also full of hope in God's presence and provision.
- I did read more than one a day so I could review the book. As an empathetic person, this did overwhelm me at times. However, that speaks to how well the devotions are written, as they made you identify with the trials the writers were experiencing.
Items to note:
- There is a style choice for the headings, at least in the advance reader copy I had, to keep all of the words in the heading in lower case. This isn't a choice I would have made, especially when Jesus' or God's name was used.
- Not every devotional applies to me, and not every writer approaches their Christian walk the same as I do. You may come to the same conclusions. It's always good to read with discernment, no matter what you are reading.
I do think that this could be an encouragement to the many women who will read it!
What I liked:
-Some devotionals can gloss over real problems and real life. This is not one of them. It does not deny God's power over our problems, but it acknowledges that sometimes we have to walk the hard road. Thankfully, God is with us through those hard times! I highlighted this passage: "He is not surprised by your weakness, nor is He turned off by it. Instead, He longs to comfort you in it." I also made a note of "God promises that even in our pain, we are seen. We count."
- The overarching theme to these devotions would be that life is hard, but God is with you. Even through the hardest times! I appreciated that the authors shared not only their problems but their hope. I found that the writings were authentic about the pain of the challenges faced, but also full of hope in God's presence and provision.
- I did read more than one a day so I could review the book. As an empathetic person, this did overwhelm me at times. However, that speaks to how well the devotions are written, as they made you identify with the trials the writers were experiencing.
Items to note:
- There is a style choice for the headings, at least in the advance reader copy I had, to keep all of the words in the heading in lower case. This isn't a choice I would have made, especially when Jesus' or God's name was used.
- Not every devotional applies to me, and not every writer approaches their Christian walk the same as I do. You may come to the same conclusions. It's always good to read with discernment, no matter what you are reading.
I do think that this could be an encouragement to the many women who will read it!
Read
October 15, 2020Let me start by telling you—I do not like women’s devotionals. I usually find them unchallenging and unsubstantial. I’m a pastor, so I like to see women growing and learning deeply in Scripture, and most books just don’t do this.
Take Heart is not most books. Yes, I’ll also tell you up front I’m in it—devo #99. But it takes a lot of reading to get to 99, enough to know that I’m enjoying and learning from almost every single one of the devotionals in this book. They’re written from real world experience that drew the writers into a closer relationship with God. They admit pain and doubt. They sit with women who don’t have answers. They dive into the scriptures that speak to that pain and come up with hope in their words.
I see so much depth and honest love for God in the writers, and it comes out in devotionals that will center the women who read them in faith and hope. Especially for this year—read it yourself or give someone else the gift of honesty and hope the writers of Take Heart offer. We all need it right now!
*As a contributor, I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Take Heart is not most books. Yes, I’ll also tell you up front I’m in it—devo #99. But it takes a lot of reading to get to 99, enough to know that I’m enjoying and learning from almost every single one of the devotionals in this book. They’re written from real world experience that drew the writers into a closer relationship with God. They admit pain and doubt. They sit with women who don’t have answers. They dive into the scriptures that speak to that pain and come up with hope in their words.
I see so much depth and honest love for God in the writers, and it comes out in devotionals that will center the women who read them in faith and hope. Especially for this year—read it yourself or give someone else the gift of honesty and hope the writers of Take Heart offer. We all need it right now!
*As a contributor, I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
June 6, 2021
Take heart is a devotional that was created for a person who is struggling and needs to hear from other believers. Feeling comfortable enough to participate and be honest about where they are at the moment.
I do believe that we learn and heal by hearing and seeing others tell their stories. It gives us hope. It doesn’t fix us, but we realize we aren’t alone. And sometimes that’s enough.
There are a 100 devotions in this special book. Each one starts with a scripture then a personal experience ending with a heartfelt prayer. Nothing made up here. Just real women with real struggles that love Jesus.
I highly recommend it and if you love devotionals then you’ll love this. I bought a hard copy of this blessing to share with others.
Thanks Revell via Netgalley.
I do believe that we learn and heal by hearing and seeing others tell their stories. It gives us hope. It doesn’t fix us, but we realize we aren’t alone. And sometimes that’s enough.
There are a 100 devotions in this special book. Each one starts with a scripture then a personal experience ending with a heartfelt prayer. Nothing made up here. Just real women with real struggles that love Jesus.
I highly recommend it and if you love devotionals then you’ll love this. I bought a hard copy of this blessing to share with others.
Thanks Revell via Netgalley.
Want to read
September 27, 2020I have been reading this wonderful devotional and I have to say if you are going through any trials in your life this book is definitely a source of encouragement. There are many different women sharing, difficulties they have experienced in their lives. They share the trial in a short story and then offer a prayer for you to pray to help you if you have gone through the same trial. You may also read and know a friend who is going through something similar and it will encourage you to share the story with them and how to pray for them. These are women just like us, they are not preaching, some of the stories will break your heart. I recommend this book to anyone Christian or not. We are all women and we all have problems and it is encouraging to know you are not alone.
I received a free download of this book from Netgalley. This review is totally my own honest opinion.
I received a free download of this book from Netgalley. This review is totally my own honest opinion.
September 24, 2020
This book is a deep and profound look into the very depths of precious hearts. We have all felt anxiety, pain, trauma, feeling left out, lost, angry....you name it, we have felt it. This book gives us glimpses into those moments in real lives and (in)courages us to feel seen in our own moments. I am currently walking through my husband being left side paralyzed and we are struggling for restored limb movement and pushing back the doubt and darkness while we try to hold on to joy in the moment. It's tough. The past few days have been dark and lonely in my own thoughts and then I remembered I was previewing this book. While reading through the pages, I couldn't put it down. I know I am supposed to read one a day but I felt like I had the chip bag open and I couldn't close it. I had to have more. One or two just did not satisfy...it was that good! Do you know someone walking through a hard time, or going to walk through a hard time or has walked through a hard time? This book is for that "someone" (pretty much every person on the face of this planet). Be blessed - be seen - be known and be loved.
Read
October 16, 2020I’m really enjoying Take Heart by the team at (in)courage. They are short devotionals that pack a punch. They are especially good for the year we are having and the emotions many are feeling right now.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
October 16, 2020
I was privileged enough to be a part of the Take Heart launch team and was provided with a complimentary digital copy of this devotional. Can I just say, wow!?! Every entry was like sitting down to have a chat with a friend - straight-shooting, everyday issues, honest, heartfelt, and soul-soothing. Some readings made me sit up straight and think. Others were a balm that left me feeling seen and heard. Some made me laugh or cry - or even both at the same time in that awkward snort-sob kind of way. Written by women going through the same things you and I experience every day, the quality of the topics and the writing is spot on. Quantitively, the entries are quick and easy to read, with a short Scripture (or two or three) and each passage closes with a prayer of reflection. With titles such as "Rest and Be the Beautiful You" by Bonnie Gray, "In the Waiting" by Jen Schmidt, and "The Worthy Cost of Being an Ally" by Michelle Reyes, you'll find relevant topics with soul-searing truth and beautiful voices sharing encouragement straight from the heart. I highly recommend for anyone who finds themselves struggling with the mundane or the not-so-ordinary hiccups that come along the path of life.
October 22, 2020
This is an excellent collection of short devotions that is supremely appropriate for the times we are in. I really identified with many of the devotions and and was impressed with the content the authors compiled for this book. These women have been where I am and expressed words of hope that is always needed especially in these troubled times. Highly recommend!!
I received this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my honest opinion.
I received this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my honest opinion.
October 21, 2020
The perfect book to have on your nightstand during a difficult year, Take Heart will literally encourage your heart and point you to the one who holds the future. Filled with personal stories and devotionals, this collection reminds us to have faith even on the darkest nights and hope for peace in Christ when anxiety is overwhelming. So grateful to have received an advanced reader copy and highly recommend you pick up a copy today!
October 7, 2020
When your heart and soul connects with words and stories that have seemingly been written with you in mind, you know you’re on to something rare and special.
I’m so moved by this devotional . . . it’s thoughtfully composed and crafted!
Matchless in oratory and authentic presentation, the tone of this devotional is the most beautiful thing about it. It brims with hope, drips with rawness, and point us to Christ who is the ultimate comforter in every spiritual, emotional, and physical discomfort that we go through. I absolutely love the intimate prayers that are offered at the end of each story...they speak to the beauty of being vulnerable in what we feel, yet confident in the Father’s nonjudgmental ability to hear us when we call on Him. How precious!
Get. This. Devotional.
Healing, comfort, peace, acceptance and love awaits among the pages.
I’m so moved by this devotional . . . it’s thoughtfully composed and crafted!
Matchless in oratory and authentic presentation, the tone of this devotional is the most beautiful thing about it. It brims with hope, drips with rawness, and point us to Christ who is the ultimate comforter in every spiritual, emotional, and physical discomfort that we go through. I absolutely love the intimate prayers that are offered at the end of each story...they speak to the beauty of being vulnerable in what we feel, yet confident in the Father’s nonjudgmental ability to hear us when we call on Him. How precious!
Get. This. Devotional.
Healing, comfort, peace, acceptance and love awaits among the pages.
October 24, 2020
The devo you didn’t know you needed. I am so grateful to be reading a complimentary copy of this devotional. Everyone has been going through such a rough season and the stories these women share are so encouraging and remind us of Gods goodness. Normally I pass along a lot of books but I think this one is a keeper and I’ll just have to buy it for others because it is so great.
October 5, 2020
Take Heart is the devotional for every woman. With personal real world stories of hope, challenge, despair and joy. Every day gave me a chance to look at God's work in each of these circumstances. Each writer gave me a glimpse into their lives and shared their stories as a way to glorify God. The connection to the bible verse each day and the prayer at the end of each devotion created a sacred time with God. A way to start my day with the Lord focused on His teaching. I appreciate the transparency of each contributor noting that life is not perfect and some days aren't easy but we always have Jesus.
September 18, 2020
This week I have had the blessing of reading and studying (yes, studying) the first 29 devotions. The honesty and issues are real. Each devotion reveals our humanness and our desperate need for God. Each devotion shows our weaknesses and God’s strength. Each devotion lays out our deep hurts and wounds, but praises God as our Healer. Each devotion admonishes me to stay in God’s Word and to hear His voice above and through it all.
Today, my heart and mind are healthier because this book has reminded me where my trust should be and where my mind must reside if I am to live with joy and peace.
I am grateful for each contributor and for their wonderful writing. I know much wisdom and encouragement is ahead as I continue to drench myself in the remaining stories and God’s steadfast love for each of us.
Today, my heart and mind are healthier because this book has reminded me where my trust should be and where my mind must reside if I am to live with joy and peace.
I am grateful for each contributor and for their wonderful writing. I know much wisdom and encouragement is ahead as I continue to drench myself in the remaining stories and God’s steadfast love for each of us.
July 24, 2021
As a Christian woman, sometimes it is easy to feel like we should have everything together and be trusting God. Anxiety? Depression? What? Don’t you have trust in God? Oh, you must just not have enough faith. However, this message can be damaging. We all struggle, and sometimes are just not okay. Yes, we should turn to God and rely on him, but we are going to have trouble in this world, and sometimes, it is hard to juggle it all. For this reason, I really appreciate Take Heart: 100 Devotions to Seeing God When Life’s Not Okay. This devotional is filled with personal stories of Christian women who are willing to be vulnerable, and uplift other women who may be struggling through a similar situation.
Each devotion begins with the title, a scripture, and then goes into a personal story. The book shares the name of the author of each devotional as well. After the story, the author shares some encouragement, and then a prayer. The authors do not try to give you the perfect answer, or tell you how to solve your problems, but they direct you to the only One who can. I like that the devotionals are each a page or two, so they are easy to read if you do not have a lot of time that day, but still are looking for some devotional time. It is also easy to read for a busy mom with children who may not let focus on reading for long periods of time!
A few quotes that stood out to me (and there were so many more) were:
“Just as a candle captures our attention when it’s lit, a woman whose eyes shine with Christ’s love stands out in a crowd.”
“Rest, knowing you were chosen and ‘loved by God’ (1 Thess. 1:4) – the One who calls you beautiful and means it.”
“Sometimes in the flailing, we just need to know someone sees us and understands. God sees you, friend. Always.”
“As your day gets underway, there will be many people and projects that will ask something of you. You will be tempted to strive and hustle. With all the demands that will surely come your way, remember Jesus’s command to ‘strive for his kingdom.’ “
“Deep inside us, God created an inner spirit that needs nurturing. We’re made to be loved, cared for, and given attention. We all need permission to take better care of ourselves. We all need a friend to help us remember we are like beautiful flowers blossoming in the fields.”
I have enjoyed reading these testimonies and was encouraged by the reminder that God is in control, no matter what is happening in our lives. If you are looking for an easy to read and comforting devotional that will point you to God during tough times, I highly recommend Take Heart!
I received a copy of this book from Revell, through Net Galley, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Each devotion begins with the title, a scripture, and then goes into a personal story. The book shares the name of the author of each devotional as well. After the story, the author shares some encouragement, and then a prayer. The authors do not try to give you the perfect answer, or tell you how to solve your problems, but they direct you to the only One who can. I like that the devotionals are each a page or two, so they are easy to read if you do not have a lot of time that day, but still are looking for some devotional time. It is also easy to read for a busy mom with children who may not let focus on reading for long periods of time!
A few quotes that stood out to me (and there were so many more) were:
“Just as a candle captures our attention when it’s lit, a woman whose eyes shine with Christ’s love stands out in a crowd.”
“Rest, knowing you were chosen and ‘loved by God’ (1 Thess. 1:4) – the One who calls you beautiful and means it.”
“Sometimes in the flailing, we just need to know someone sees us and understands. God sees you, friend. Always.”
“As your day gets underway, there will be many people and projects that will ask something of you. You will be tempted to strive and hustle. With all the demands that will surely come your way, remember Jesus’s command to ‘strive for his kingdom.’ “
“Deep inside us, God created an inner spirit that needs nurturing. We’re made to be loved, cared for, and given attention. We all need permission to take better care of ourselves. We all need a friend to help us remember we are like beautiful flowers blossoming in the fields.”
I have enjoyed reading these testimonies and was encouraged by the reminder that God is in control, no matter what is happening in our lives. If you are looking for an easy to read and comforting devotional that will point you to God during tough times, I highly recommend Take Heart!
I received a copy of this book from Revell, through Net Galley, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 29, 2020
“We have a God who sits with us in the dark so we can bear witness to the light. A God who will never leave us or forsake us and who continues to speak the language of hope into our sorrow. When my mind or body or life fails me, Jesus never will.” (Alia Joy—page 63 in the book.)
This book is not the “typical” devotional book for women. The subtitle of the book is “100 devotions to Seeing God When Life’s Not Okay” and that theme is carried out in every one of the personal stories included in this book. Some stories are filled with real hardships and uncertainty ; difficult relationships; raw emotions; and even sorrow. But these ladies have found the remarkable victory, freedom, and hope to be found in faith in Jesus as they’ve walked these difficult roads. As I read this book, I felt as if I had sat down with these ladies and had personal conversations with them.
The scripture verses and prayers included with each devotion share faith and encouragement for those days when worry and concern seem to be overtaking us. This book is going to stay on a bookshelf where I can easily find it for encouragement on days “when life’s not ok”. It’s a remarkable testimony to the comfort that can come only from God.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This book is not the “typical” devotional book for women. The subtitle of the book is “100 devotions to Seeing God When Life’s Not Okay” and that theme is carried out in every one of the personal stories included in this book. Some stories are filled with real hardships and uncertainty ; difficult relationships; raw emotions; and even sorrow. But these ladies have found the remarkable victory, freedom, and hope to be found in faith in Jesus as they’ve walked these difficult roads. As I read this book, I felt as if I had sat down with these ladies and had personal conversations with them.
The scripture verses and prayers included with each devotion share faith and encouragement for those days when worry and concern seem to be overtaking us. This book is going to stay on a bookshelf where I can easily find it for encouragement on days “when life’s not ok”. It’s a remarkable testimony to the comfort that can come only from God.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
December 29, 2020
The two words “take heart,” coming from John 16:133 (along with C.S. Lewis’s own rendering of them, “Courage, dear heart”), have been near and dear to my own heart since I first clung to them over a decade ago when a string of losses left me emptied and hopeless. When I saw this new devotional being released by (in)courage (a community whose words have encouraged me in my faith through the years), I knew I had to read it.
Life is full of trouble, but we can take heart because of God. But what does this really mean? What does this look like?
I was enamored with this devotional because each devotion invites you into a person’s experience that shows us the answers to these questions.
If you’re living through a hard season, this devotional is one to keep by your side to encourage you to press on and persevere. It will meet you right where you are, acknowledging emotions, struggles, doubts, and all the things we experience when you are anything but okay.
But more than being a well-written compilation of devotionals from numerous women sharing stories and words inviting you in, each devotion draws you straight to the heart of God.
I am so grateful for yet another devotional from (in)courage that I know will be an encouragement to so many of us sifting through broken pieces with broken hearts.
Life is full of trouble, but we can take heart because of God. But what does this really mean? What does this look like?
I was enamored with this devotional because each devotion invites you into a person’s experience that shows us the answers to these questions.
If you’re living through a hard season, this devotional is one to keep by your side to encourage you to press on and persevere. It will meet you right where you are, acknowledging emotions, struggles, doubts, and all the things we experience when you are anything but okay.
But more than being a well-written compilation of devotionals from numerous women sharing stories and words inviting you in, each devotion draws you straight to the heart of God.
I am so grateful for yet another devotional from (in)courage that I know will be an encouragement to so many of us sifting through broken pieces with broken hearts.
June 8, 2021
Take Heart
100 Devotions to Seeing God When Life's Not Okay
by (in)courage
Revell
Christian
Pub Date 20 Oct 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Take Heart: 100 Devotions to Seeing Good When Life’s Not Okay:
If you are finding that you have experienced the difficult things in life you are not alone. Spouses leave. Dreams slip through our fingers, Cancer comes. Anxiety and depression steal precious seasons. But what if you knew you weren't alone in your pain, and sorrow isn't in the end of the story?
In Take Heart, 100 Devotions to Seeing God When Life’s Not Okay community comes alongside you when your heart is grieving, your faith is shaking, or it's just one of those mundane hard days. In these vulnerable stories, you won't find tidy bows or trite quick fixes, but you will find arrows pointing you straight to Jesus. Each day includes a key Scripture, a heartening devotion, and a prayer to remind you that God is near and hope is possible.
In this book Let this book be like a trusted friend, wrapping your heart with comfort and assurance that you are seen. Together we can find ourselves and God again in one another's stories. Together we can take heart!
I give Take Heart five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
100 Devotions to Seeing God When Life's Not Okay
by (in)courage
Revell
Christian
Pub Date 20 Oct 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Take Heart: 100 Devotions to Seeing Good When Life’s Not Okay:
If you are finding that you have experienced the difficult things in life you are not alone. Spouses leave. Dreams slip through our fingers, Cancer comes. Anxiety and depression steal precious seasons. But what if you knew you weren't alone in your pain, and sorrow isn't in the end of the story?
In Take Heart, 100 Devotions to Seeing God When Life’s Not Okay community comes alongside you when your heart is grieving, your faith is shaking, or it's just one of those mundane hard days. In these vulnerable stories, you won't find tidy bows or trite quick fixes, but you will find arrows pointing you straight to Jesus. Each day includes a key Scripture, a heartening devotion, and a prayer to remind you that God is near and hope is possible.
In this book Let this book be like a trusted friend, wrapping your heart with comfort and assurance that you are seen. Together we can find ourselves and God again in one another's stories. Together we can take heart!
I give Take Heart five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
October 20, 2020
Need some encouraging words to start your day, or keep you going when the times are tough? Take Heart is the perfect devotional to read in 2020 when so much of our lives seem far from normal. Many women, often in challenging circumstances, have openly shared their heart in these fairly brief entries in order to be an encouragement to someone else. This isn’t an answer book; it won’t solve your problems. But it lets you know that you are not alone in spite of feelings of uncertainty, loneliness, inadequacy, physical challenges and many other emotions which can drag us down if we don’t remember the true source of comfort for us all. This devotional has consistent reminders that we are cherished and loved with an everlasting love. I highly recommend this book, which will be released on October 20.
“… remember that God promises to be with the brokenhearted. Period. No restrictions or expiration dates.” Mary Carver, Take Heart
I received an advance copy of this book from Netgally thanks to the publisher in return for an honest review.
“… remember that God promises to be with the brokenhearted. Period. No restrictions or expiration dates.” Mary Carver, Take Heart
I received an advance copy of this book from Netgally thanks to the publisher in return for an honest review.
October 24, 2020
Take Heart: 100 Devotions to Seeing God When Life's Not Okay is a book full of blessings. An intentional outreach of stories from the lives of women who have walked through them. What a timely book that speaks to so many right where they are in life's journey. I'm thankful these women shared their lives with us through their devotions and heart-felt words. Being transparent and vulnerable and honest. Letting us know we are not alone as we walk through tough relationships, a difficult diagnosis, fear and anxiety, or just hearing from and relying on God.
Each devotion includes a scripture that speaks to the woman's heart and brings the story alive through God's word. The devotions provide encouragement and support through the diverse and unique ways we walk through life. You can find all of this and so much more during these next 100 days - although I found myself reading several days at a time as many of the devotions spoke to my specific situations.
I encourage you to pick up a copy for yourself or a friend, or someone you know who needs to be uplifted.
Each devotion includes a scripture that speaks to the woman's heart and brings the story alive through God's word. The devotions provide encouragement and support through the diverse and unique ways we walk through life. You can find all of this and so much more during these next 100 days - although I found myself reading several days at a time as many of the devotions spoke to my specific situations.
I encourage you to pick up a copy for yourself or a friend, or someone you know who needs to be uplifted.
October 25, 2020
I was given an advanced digital copy of this devotional as part of a book launch team. If you are a woman (sorry men!) living in 2020, then this book is for you! These women pour out stories from their lives, of hard times they have been through and the lesson learned from it. They tie in a bible verse and at the end of every devotional is a prayer as well. These are short devotionals that do not require a huge amount of time. In fact, I usually read at least 5 at a time for the book launch. After reading the first few, I pre-ordered a hard copy for myself and will be going through them again one at a time. Some of the topics covered are: community, loneliness, struggle, grief, identity, shame, injustice, mental health, motherhood, relationships, singleness, self-care and spiritual struggle. I highly recommend this book. If you are buying a hard copy, buy 2, because once you are in a few pages, I guarantee you will think of at least one friend who also needs this book. This is definitely a devotional that you will be able to, and want to, read over and over again.
December 14, 2020
Are you dealing with a situation that’s got you feeling isolated, anxious and depressed? Do you feel that you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders with no one to help bear the burden? If so, then you need to know that you’re not alone – that the things you are feeling are natural – but they are only here for a season and that they will pass.
You need hope – and that is exactly what Take Heart, the new devotional from (in)Courage offers.
Take Heart provides women with 100 devotions from the amazing women and writers within the (in)Courage community. These devotions have a way of providing you with the right scriptures, the most relatable stories and the perfect prayers just when you need them the most.
If you own the (in)Courage Bible (which is one of my favorites), then this devotional makes the perfect companion to keep nearby during your quiet times.
It also makes a great gift for a friend.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. My comments reflect my personal experience with this book!
You need hope – and that is exactly what Take Heart, the new devotional from (in)Courage offers.
Take Heart provides women with 100 devotions from the amazing women and writers within the (in)Courage community. These devotions have a way of providing you with the right scriptures, the most relatable stories and the perfect prayers just when you need them the most.
If you own the (in)Courage Bible (which is one of my favorites), then this devotional makes the perfect companion to keep nearby during your quiet times.
It also makes a great gift for a friend.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. My comments reflect my personal experience with this book!
Currently reading
October 18, 2020I'm still reading this book, but I wanted to share an update before it officially launches on Tuesday!
I'm always so skeptical of devotionals because they tend to be saccharine and completely unrelatable. Don't even get me started on the way they often push the reader to practice spiritual bypass and toxic positivity. I often feel worse after reading than I did before.
Take Heart is different.
Each time I pick up my Kindle to read it, I'm blown away by the incredible women who choose to be vulnerable and share real life stories about everything from the struggles with body image to living with anxiety. The stories resonate with me because they are so relatable, and no one is advocating that our struggles will be totally fixed if we just fixate on Jesus. The message is more like, "Yep, struggles are a part of life. Faith doesn't fix them all, but it helps you live with them." The stories are real, and raw - but so is the intense faith presented here.
I'm always so skeptical of devotionals because they tend to be saccharine and completely unrelatable. Don't even get me started on the way they often push the reader to practice spiritual bypass and toxic positivity. I often feel worse after reading than I did before.
Take Heart is different.
Each time I pick up my Kindle to read it, I'm blown away by the incredible women who choose to be vulnerable and share real life stories about everything from the struggles with body image to living with anxiety. The stories resonate with me because they are so relatable, and no one is advocating that our struggles will be totally fixed if we just fixate on Jesus. The message is more like, "Yep, struggles are a part of life. Faith doesn't fix them all, but it helps you live with them." The stories are real, and raw - but so is the intense faith presented here.
October 22, 2020
I LOVE this book of devotionals! There are very few devotional books that I've read that seem to be spiritually guided to the exact thing that is going on in my life. Day after day the messages hit home and helped me work through a daily struggle or mental issue that I was dealing with. Even just randomly opening the book, the words on the page seemed to leap out and shake me to the core. I know this will be a book that I will keep in both my physical and electronic libraries, to be able to reach out to it at any point when a word, message, or prayer is needed.
The prayers at the end of each day are perfect in every way. I've found that sometimes my prayers seem forced or I use the standard prayers over and over, therefore to be able to hear prayers from different people really inspired me to approach my prayers in all-new ways.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this amazing book! Can't wait to see what might come next!
The prayers at the end of each day are perfect in every way. I've found that sometimes my prayers seem forced or I use the standard prayers over and over, therefore to be able to hear prayers from different people really inspired me to approach my prayers in all-new ways.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this amazing book! Can't wait to see what might come next!
October 14, 2020
This devotional isn't your average. It flows well. It doesn't feel limited or separated, so if you forget a day you will not have to worry about catching up as you can go at a pace that feels right for you. I found it difficult to put down. On most occasions, I felt as though I was sitting with my best friend chatting about life. Every woman has a story in this book that could touch them. I've laughed, I've cried, I've had my heart and mind opened. The prayers at the end of each devotional are organic and profound. This book exceeded every expectation I had and every woman in my family will soon have a copy. My sincere hope is that this book touches your soul as it did mine. I received this book in digital format as part of a promotion from NetGalley yet my review is my own honest thoughts.
October 22, 2020
This devotional couldn’t have come at a better time. I have been blessed to be a part of a launch team for this devotional,
I have not finished this devotional, but I will say that I really like the way it’s been written. It is very relatable, and will be for many, as it has a variety of written stories of real women and their real life personal experiences. In this devotional with each story there is a Bible verse to be read, as well as a prayer to be said. I am really enjoying reading Take Heart, growing stronger in faith, and closer to God. I am signing off now, so I can get back to it, but before I do, I’d like to take this opportunity to Thank the (in)courage team, writers, and Publisher, Revel, for producing this amazing and wonderfully put together devotional.
Go buy your copy. You won’t be sorry. God Bless...
I have not finished this devotional, but I will say that I really like the way it’s been written. It is very relatable, and will be for many, as it has a variety of written stories of real women and their real life personal experiences. In this devotional with each story there is a Bible verse to be read, as well as a prayer to be said. I am really enjoying reading Take Heart, growing stronger in faith, and closer to God. I am signing off now, so I can get back to it, but before I do, I’d like to take this opportunity to Thank the (in)courage team, writers, and Publisher, Revel, for producing this amazing and wonderfully put together devotional.
Go buy your copy. You won’t be sorry. God Bless...
January 9, 2022
Take heart started out slow to me, I didn’t connect right away. But once I did, I was glad I continued reading.
This book is what you want to be reading if your struggling! It’s a group of Sisters in Christ coming beside you with a chorus of “You are not alone!“ and “I’ve felt that way too.”
This book is filled with all the real human emotions and thoughts we are sometimes afraid to talk about; and then they show you all the ways God has said these things are ok . My biggest take away from this book is something I knew but needed reminded of - God is not intimidated by our feelings or our thoughts! He desires we bring it all to Him and lay it at His feet.
If your searching for some encouragement but not the kind that just says fake it till you make it , then Take Heart is a book for you!
Thank you Netgalley for the review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book is what you want to be reading if your struggling! It’s a group of Sisters in Christ coming beside you with a chorus of “You are not alone!“ and “I’ve felt that way too.”
This book is filled with all the real human emotions and thoughts we are sometimes afraid to talk about; and then they show you all the ways God has said these things are ok . My biggest take away from this book is something I knew but needed reminded of - God is not intimidated by our feelings or our thoughts! He desires we bring it all to Him and lay it at His feet.
If your searching for some encouragement but not the kind that just says fake it till you make it , then Take Heart is a book for you!
Thank you Netgalley for the review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 14, 2020
This devotional couldn't have come at a better time not just in my life but also for 2020! So many of us are walking through some difficult days. When we go through these trying times, we need authenticity, honesty and someone to come alongside of us who understands. These devotionals provide exactly that. I could relate to almost every devotional in this book because they seek to meet you right where you are not where we think we "should" be in times of stress. Seeking Christ in our trials while allowing ourselves to experience the emotions that come along with it is so freeing and I highly recommend this devotional if you need grace, lack of judgement and encouraging support!
*I was able to do an early review thanks to an early copy of the book from the launch team and Net Galley.
*I was able to do an early review thanks to an early copy of the book from the launch team and Net Galley.
October 15, 2020
Finding hope in places where there shouldn't be any is the overwhelming theme of this devotional by (in)Courage ministries. The variety of authors and experiences are vast in this book and it can be enjoyed by women of all ages and different walks of life.
I especially enjoyed the personal testimonies of those who've walked through the fire and not been consumed...to face many of the issues discussed within this devotional is to see a short glimpse into the lives of the devo's writers.
If you've faced struggles and wondered how you can keep moving forward in spite of those struggles, this is a great place to start.
I was an early reader, thanks to the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I especially enjoyed the personal testimonies of those who've walked through the fire and not been consumed...to face many of the issues discussed within this devotional is to see a short glimpse into the lives of the devo's writers.
If you've faced struggles and wondered how you can keep moving forward in spite of those struggles, this is a great place to start.
I was an early reader, thanks to the publisher. All opinions are my own.
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