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Satisfied: Finding Hope, Joy, and Contentment Right Where You Are
Stop focusing on what you lack and start feeling grateful and satisfied with what you have!
Touching on topics like fear, worry, dissatisfaction, anxiety, and body image, Alyssa Bethke walks you through issues that rob you of your joy and helps you recognize them for what they distractions.
With all of its expectations and contradictions, this world can take a major toll on us. Be skinny, but not too skinny. Work and hustle but stay home and be a good mom. Be wild and free while tidy and pure. Love your husband but be independent.
In Satisfied , Alyssa Bethke shares a compelling collection of relatable essays that will help you embrace and cultivate beauty in your life. Along with healthy recipes and cozy home images, Satisfied will provide you with the knowledge that you are not alone in your fight to be fulfilled. Alyssa shows you the ways in which you are enough—not only for those around you, but for yourself.
Touching on topics like fear, worry, dissatisfaction, anxiety, and body image, Alyssa Bethke walks you through issues that rob you of your joy and helps you recognize them for what they distractions.
With all of its expectations and contradictions, this world can take a major toll on us. Be skinny, but not too skinny. Work and hustle but stay home and be a good mom. Be wild and free while tidy and pure. Love your husband but be independent.
In Satisfied , Alyssa Bethke shares a compelling collection of relatable essays that will help you embrace and cultivate beauty in your life. Along with healthy recipes and cozy home images, Satisfied will provide you with the knowledge that you are not alone in your fight to be fulfilled. Alyssa shows you the ways in which you are enough—not only for those around you, but for yourself.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published June 15, 2021
131 people are currently reading
2711 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Bethke
24 books144 followersAlyssa Bethke is a mother of three children, Kinsley, Kannon, and Lucy, and a dog named Aslan. She and her husband, Jeff Bethke, live in Maui, and are bloggers, YouTubers, and hosts of The Real-Life podcast. Jeff and Alyssa are the New York Times bestselling authors of Jesus > Religion and It’s Not What You Think and Love That Lasts. They are passionate about encouraging and strengthening families at familyteams.com a program that brings families together with the idea of becoming a team.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 227 reviews
June 30, 2021
I came in to this book not knowing anything about the author. And honestly, that was the most jarring and difficult part of getting in to the book, because the author doesn't introduce herself or her family or if she has a ministry or ANYTHING. It was so strange. She just jumped in to teaching points and advice and spiritual "guidance" without building any credibility with the reader at the forefront. It took chapters before I realized she homeschooled. Even longer before I realize I had actually heard of her husband, but honestly, I still even after reading the book, don't know what they do. Are they business owners (I think so)? Are you they in ministry (I think so)? I don't know. I didn't feel like the author put in that effort to create credibility or to create "relationship" through her writing. She just jumped in headfirst as though we all knew her.
The book felt like essays in things that she learned in her own life, which would potentially have hit differently had I been given insight into who she was and why the reader should care about her lessons learned (you know, other than her being a human being that God loves and we should all care for each other as humans....but I mean as an author teaching people through their book). So that all set the tone of the book for me. And I just felt kind of off with it. I mean, throughout the book there are pictures ( a LOT of them) of their family and events and home. And then I was like, is she an interior designer? Is she a photographer? Is she a lifestyle blogger?! I DON'T KNOW!!!!!!!! And still don't. Because, I didn't even care enough to look her up on social media.
Okay, I sound really critical right now. And I don't mean to. But I just felt like it was weirdly done.
Other than that, her writing was nice and straight forward. The pictures are pretty. There were some beautiful moments capture in her words. I certainly felt the depth her heartache as she wrote about her miscarriage, as I experienced one similarly. I just don't think I connected with the book or author as a whole. And that kind of disappoints me because I get the feeling that we had a lot in common as I homeschool too and my husband is a business owner in ministry as well. So I think I'm her ideal demographic. But it missed the mark for me.
The book felt like essays in things that she learned in her own life, which would potentially have hit differently had I been given insight into who she was and why the reader should care about her lessons learned (you know, other than her being a human being that God loves and we should all care for each other as humans....but I mean as an author teaching people through their book). So that all set the tone of the book for me. And I just felt kind of off with it. I mean, throughout the book there are pictures ( a LOT of them) of their family and events and home. And then I was like, is she an interior designer? Is she a photographer? Is she a lifestyle blogger?! I DON'T KNOW!!!!!!!! And still don't. Because, I didn't even care enough to look her up on social media.
Okay, I sound really critical right now. And I don't mean to. But I just felt like it was weirdly done.
Other than that, her writing was nice and straight forward. The pictures are pretty. There were some beautiful moments capture in her words. I certainly felt the depth her heartache as she wrote about her miscarriage, as I experienced one similarly. I just don't think I connected with the book or author as a whole. And that kind of disappoints me because I get the feeling that we had a lot in common as I homeschool too and my husband is a business owner in ministry as well. So I think I'm her ideal demographic. But it missed the mark for me.
May 14, 2024
“There is so much joy in life if we trust in Jesus. Because it's not about the end result.
It's not about having it all pulled together beautifully. Rather, it's about declaring his goodness and his faithfulness through our weaknesses. It's not about the finish line, or how our lives look to others. It's about the process of living through the hardships. It does something to change us. It makes us stronger. Forces us to keep going. To ask God to help and give us his eyes to see the joy instead of white-knuckling it and trying to force life to be as it is in our minds. To let go, to trust the process, and lean into him.”
This book was a gift from a friend. It has been such a sweet and encouraging read.
It's not about having it all pulled together beautifully. Rather, it's about declaring his goodness and his faithfulness through our weaknesses. It's not about the finish line, or how our lives look to others. It's about the process of living through the hardships. It does something to change us. It makes us stronger. Forces us to keep going. To ask God to help and give us his eyes to see the joy instead of white-knuckling it and trying to force life to be as it is in our minds. To let go, to trust the process, and lean into him.”
This book was a gift from a friend. It has been such a sweet and encouraging read.
December 17, 2021
I was dissatisfied with Satisfied. It is a lovely book and the message is not wrong. It seems to be helpful for many young upper class women who rate it so highly. It is filled with pictures of a young mom with a supportive husband, healthy children, a beautifully decorated home in Hawaii, with friends and family and food. She talks about a time of loneliness and a miscarriage, but she has so much more than most people, it’s hard to see how anyone with that life would not be content. I don’t think it’s her intention, but it feels like the thrust of it is that if you wait patiently you’ll get what you want to be satisfied. For many of us, this does not prove true. It is much more about learning to be satisfied in God alone, without the spouse, or kids, or health, or house, etc.
June 15, 2021
Do you feel content with where you are in life? Maybe you do or maybe you are feeling stuck in a difficult season? Satisfied by Alyssa Joy Bethke is a simply gorgeous book full of encouragement, faithful Bible verses and colorful pictures--all put together to remind you that wherever you are, you are loved by God.
Satisfied is divided in to three sections. In each one, Bethke shares stories from her heart and soul about how God has met her where she is to help her through various challenges such as moving and a miscarriage. She also reminds us that if we are searching for a community, that we should not give up. She shares how it took her time to build that community after they moved. She also shares many encouraging stories about mothering and being a marriage partner. There are a lot of good Bible verses and quotes from other books woven in. All in all, with the pictures of the Bethke family, their house and gatherings of friends, it just feels like the reader is welcomed in and sharing with a friend. At the same time, if you just looked at the gorgeous pictures, it would seem like her life is perfect. I think it might have been helpful to see a few pictures in "real time" as they would better show the real life and challenges that she talks about-- instead, everything, including the kids, is clean, white, and spotless in the book. At the back of the book, Bethke includes several recipes that truly look delicious--chicken pot pie, pesto, guacamole, salad and soups. This book could be a real encouragement, especially to another young married woman, but to a woman of any age. I have faced some similar challenges as this author in my life and I was truly inspired through her words in Satisfied.
I received a copy of this book from Worthy Publishing. All opinions within this review are my own.
Satisfied is divided in to three sections. In each one, Bethke shares stories from her heart and soul about how God has met her where she is to help her through various challenges such as moving and a miscarriage. She also reminds us that if we are searching for a community, that we should not give up. She shares how it took her time to build that community after they moved. She also shares many encouraging stories about mothering and being a marriage partner. There are a lot of good Bible verses and quotes from other books woven in. All in all, with the pictures of the Bethke family, their house and gatherings of friends, it just feels like the reader is welcomed in and sharing with a friend. At the same time, if you just looked at the gorgeous pictures, it would seem like her life is perfect. I think it might have been helpful to see a few pictures in "real time" as they would better show the real life and challenges that she talks about-- instead, everything, including the kids, is clean, white, and spotless in the book. At the back of the book, Bethke includes several recipes that truly look delicious--chicken pot pie, pesto, guacamole, salad and soups. This book could be a real encouragement, especially to another young married woman, but to a woman of any age. I have faced some similar challenges as this author in my life and I was truly inspired through her words in Satisfied.
I received a copy of this book from Worthy Publishing. All opinions within this review are my own.
May 21, 2021
This is a beautiful book. It's one you could place on your coffee table or a shelf convenient for frequent perusal. The photos by Jenna Strubhar are stunning. There are beautiful landscape photos and fun scenes of the Bethke family and friends. But the photos are only there to support insightful comments.
Bethke explores a number of themes in this book. Moving to Hawaii, for example, she writes of the struggle to find new women friends. She realized, “God is the only One who will ever fully satisfy our longing souls.” (10) She has a touching account of her miscarriage and the work of grief on her healing journey. She shares her thoughts on the power of music, the trap of comparison, dealing with fear, body image and identity, holy moments, consumerism and more.
This is a beautiful and insightful book for the young Christian. It provides an opportunity to stop and take a few moments to gaze at wonderful scenes and read encouraging comments on living life for Jesus. It would be especially attractive to women who love garden tea parties and luncheons where all the women wear dresses. Bethke has included some of her favorite recipes too.
Don't be intimidated by the family photos with beds all made and pillows strategically places, shelves and play areas tidy, kids with absolutely clean clothes, cleverly decorated rooms with no dust bunnies or dirty kitchen counters. While Bethke sometimes writes about the messes of life, none of them were allowed to be seen in the perfectly crafted photos.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Bethke explores a number of themes in this book. Moving to Hawaii, for example, she writes of the struggle to find new women friends. She realized, “God is the only One who will ever fully satisfy our longing souls.” (10) She has a touching account of her miscarriage and the work of grief on her healing journey. She shares her thoughts on the power of music, the trap of comparison, dealing with fear, body image and identity, holy moments, consumerism and more.
This is a beautiful and insightful book for the young Christian. It provides an opportunity to stop and take a few moments to gaze at wonderful scenes and read encouraging comments on living life for Jesus. It would be especially attractive to women who love garden tea parties and luncheons where all the women wear dresses. Bethke has included some of her favorite recipes too.
Don't be intimidated by the family photos with beds all made and pillows strategically places, shelves and play areas tidy, kids with absolutely clean clothes, cleverly decorated rooms with no dust bunnies or dirty kitchen counters. While Bethke sometimes writes about the messes of life, none of them were allowed to be seen in the perfectly crafted photos.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Read
November 15, 2025DNF at chapter 5.
Already just okay, but the story of the lost and found ~$10k diamond ring was too much xD
Already just okay, but the story of the lost and found ~$10k diamond ring was too much xD
May 10, 2022
okkkkk I was 100% expecting this book to be majorly cheesy BUT I really enjoyed it. Felt like I was sitting in Alyssa’s living room having a cup of coffee with her :’) if you’re expecting ground-breaking/heavy theology,,, this book ain’t it. it’s great if you’re looking for an encouraging + easy read. thanks Alyssa!!!!
January 19, 2022
This book is so full of truth! Reminders that I needed to hear. It was an easy read but packed full of good stuff. I know I’ll be rereading this one!
July 14, 2023
4.5 stars
This was such an enjoyable, pleasant, and relaxing read. It also is a beautiful book that would make for a great 'coffee table book' due to the lovely design and pictures inside.
The content is both encouraging and reflective while also not coming across as condescending or hypocritical. I really loved how relatable and personal Alyssa Joy Bethke was when sharing her experiences.
Whether it be another lifestyle book or something different, I do hope this author writes more as I found this a wonderful read that I could easily see myself coming back to.
This was such an enjoyable, pleasant, and relaxing read. It also is a beautiful book that would make for a great 'coffee table book' due to the lovely design and pictures inside.
The content is both encouraging and reflective while also not coming across as condescending or hypocritical. I really loved how relatable and personal Alyssa Joy Bethke was when sharing her experiences.
Whether it be another lifestyle book or something different, I do hope this author writes more as I found this a wonderful read that I could easily see myself coming back to.
February 23, 2024
My problems with this book are largely superficial. I did not know this was a coffee table book when I stumbled across it in my library’s online catalog. I never would have put it on hold for that reason alone. I am a nursing mother of two small children. I like my books to only require one hand. It took me a month to read because I couldn’t carve out the time required to manage its unwieldy size.
Secondly, why is it a coffee table book? Who writes a devotional and peppers it with family photos? Am I the only one who finds that super distracting? I’m getting the vibe that the Bethkes are one of those Christian celebrity couples, but I had never heard of them and didn’t care to be bombarded with snapshots of their lives while trying to read.
Thirdly, if you are going to include pictures of your life, at least make them relatable. There were way too many references to the comparison trap of social media right next to Pinterest worthy photos. Like, I’m sorry, what?
Overall I found this book to be a collection of disjointed thoughts printed alongside a stranger’s family photo album.
Secondly, why is it a coffee table book? Who writes a devotional and peppers it with family photos? Am I the only one who finds that super distracting? I’m getting the vibe that the Bethkes are one of those Christian celebrity couples, but I had never heard of them and didn’t care to be bombarded with snapshots of their lives while trying to read.
Thirdly, if you are going to include pictures of your life, at least make them relatable. There were way too many references to the comparison trap of social media right next to Pinterest worthy photos. Like, I’m sorry, what?
Overall I found this book to be a collection of disjointed thoughts printed alongside a stranger’s family photo album.
June 14, 2021
This book has been just what I’ve needed. This book does not disappoint. When you read this book you will feel like Alyssa is sitting across from you giving you the encouragement and truth that you desperately need. A lot of us may know God’s word, but when we go through life, especially hard situations, we often need a friend to come alongside us to tell us they have been there, to press on, and to trust the One who is shaping our story. Alyssa’s book does all of that and more. This book is beautiful and unique. I would describe it as a collection of essays that build on the same theme. This style makes it something you can pick back up at any time. Alyssa takes the book to another level by adding in beautiful pictures and her favorite recipes. I really feel that she created an experience through this book that I want to partake of again and again. Thank you, Alyssa, for sharing your heart and leading us to Jesus!
June 18, 2021
*I received a NetGalley copy of this book for review, before my preordered copy arrived.*
This book held so many good reminders and contained so much truth... so refreshing for a tired soul. Reading Alyssa’s heart about being satisfied in Jesus alone felt like I was talking with a friend. I am about to dive in with my hard copy for another read to soak it all in! A couple parts that stood out to me:
“I’m not God. I have limitations. And God knows my frame. He has made me to need him. He is constantly telling us in Scripture to rest in him, to abide in him; that we can’t do anything apart from him. That in our weakness, he is powerful.”
“Even in the yeses we still need God, and the good news is that he always gives all of himself, always. He is the same God in the waiting as in the receiving.”
This book held so many good reminders and contained so much truth... so refreshing for a tired soul. Reading Alyssa’s heart about being satisfied in Jesus alone felt like I was talking with a friend. I am about to dive in with my hard copy for another read to soak it all in! A couple parts that stood out to me:
“I’m not God. I have limitations. And God knows my frame. He has made me to need him. He is constantly telling us in Scripture to rest in him, to abide in him; that we can’t do anything apart from him. That in our weakness, he is powerful.”
“Even in the yeses we still need God, and the good news is that he always gives all of himself, always. He is the same God in the waiting as in the receiving.”
January 14, 2025
This book wasn’t helpful because it introduced me to new ideas or philosophies. It was helpful because it challenged me to actually live in the truths I already know. Bethke talks about constantly centering our lives on Jesus. Whether it’s our emotions, our unmet dreams, our fears, our struggles, our sorrows— bringing every thing to Him.
Nothing was really a new thought to me, but I was challenged to actually live these truths. To pray when I’m feeling dissatisfied instead of scrolling. To bring every untrue thought into his presence instead of believing it. To be in awe of all the gifts I’ve been given by God and to not worry about the things I don’t have. It was a good reminder!
Nothing was really a new thought to me, but I was challenged to actually live these truths. To pray when I’m feeling dissatisfied instead of scrolling. To bring every untrue thought into his presence instead of believing it. To be in awe of all the gifts I’ve been given by God and to not worry about the things I don’t have. It was a good reminder!
May 20, 2021
This is a really light, quick, encouraging read. When I picked it up, I was a little worried it was going to be highly aimed at young mothers (and not being a mother yet myself, was worried it wouldn't be applicable to me) or those with children. However, I was surprised at how universal all the messages in the book were to those of any age or stage of life. It wasn't particularly theologically heavy or full of any sorts of deep messages I (a person who grew up in and lives in a deeply engaged faith) hadn't heard before. But it was nonetheless encouraging. I was particularly moved by the sections on loneliness and making friends in new places. I love the author and her husband's ministries and this book definitely falls in line with the rest of their work. The only thing I could say negatively about this book is that if you listen to their podcast or follow them on social media, you kind of already know where this book is going/the lessons contained in it.
*I received this book in advance from NetGalley*
*I received this book in advance from NetGalley*
June 22, 2021
This book is everything I needed and more. Alyssa reminds us to be thankful and satisfied in who God is, who he made us to be and what he has gifted us with. She reminds us to slow down and pray in the midst of anxiety and the everyday tasks of life. If we are satisfied in our creator we are so much more able to enjoy the life we have been gifted.
October 10, 2021
Great read on focusing on contentment and trusting God in each season of life. I’m inspired by how Alyssa and her family live intentionally in all aspects of life. Alyssa seems to have a sweet, gentle spirit that pours through in her writing.
March 19, 2024
This book was soothing and fulfilling in many ways- filled with great reminders that God loves us in the many different seasons we walk through as women, reminds us to find joy in the mundane and hard days and to be content where God has us, even when we don’t understand the lesson He is trying to teach us in that moment. It was a sweet book that helped lift me and pointed me back to scripture. The reason for the three stars, was I had never heard of the author before and would have liked some background about her, her life and family in the beginning of the book to better understand who she was and her purpose for writing this book. Also, I had to take a star off because even though the photos of her family are beautiful, I felt like I was flipping through a family photo album of someone I had no idea who they were, it just felt a bit odd to me. Some of the photos match the context of the chapter, but many of them do not so it felt a bit like photos were added in to fill space? These are just my thoughts. I do recommend this book though! It was uplifting 😊
October 31, 2025
This book felt like a sweet conversation with a good friend or big sister. It was an encouragement and a blessing to me. Simple, yet deep truths that we need to hear often. I loved that it includes pictures and recipes!
July 24, 2021
I’m not a religious person. At all. For some reason this book called to me. I’m so glad I took the chance and read this even though it’s not my usual genre. This line spoke to my soul “Here I was doing something so mundane, so simple, AND YET I WAS SATISFIED” I craved that. This book is a wonderful glimpse at a faith lead life. The pictures are beautiful and the recipes in the back of the book are easy and delicious looking.
January 22, 2022
I enjoyed this book of encouragement for women and moms. She shares her real life struggles and the things she's learned through those times. It's a beautiful book!
November 12, 2024
What a great book. Spiritually edifying and contains beautiful photos. A coffee table book with substance. Can't wait to pick up more copies and share them as gifts.
June 11, 2021
I found this memoir-esqe book to be relatable, vulnerable, and thought provoking. It is helpful to see how other Christian women process their life and grow in their relationship with Jesus in the real nitty gritty parts of life. It is not a "how to in 10 steps" type of book, but the stories of the author's life and faith shared for the encouragement of others through the theme of hope, joy and contentment.
July 1, 2021
So many good words here, a worthwhile read no matter if you feel satisfied or not.
July 23, 2021
Thank you so much to the publisher for sending me this Book.
This beautiful book is composed of photographs of the author, authors family, and all the wonders that is around her. Each chapter makes you want to seek Christ even more. I would highly recommend this big hardback to anyone.
This beautiful book is composed of photographs of the author, authors family, and all the wonders that is around her. Each chapter makes you want to seek Christ even more. I would highly recommend this big hardback to anyone.
June 30, 2022
While this book is beautiful and contains plenty of great stories, I felt it lacked substance. It's a great coffee table book with some cool recipes, but overall I just wanted more from it.
June 8, 2021
Satisfied
Finding Hope, Joy, and Contentment Right Where You Are
by Alyssa Joy Bethke
Back of the Book: “Stop focusing on what you lack and start feeling grateful and satisfied with what you have! Touching on topics like fear, worry, dissatisfaction, anxiety, and body image, Alyssa Bethke walks you through issues that rob you of your joy and help you recognize them for what they are: distractions. With all of its expectations and contradictions, this world can take a major toll on us. Be skinny, but not too skinny. Work and hustle but stay home and be a good mom. Be wild and free while tidy and pure. Love your husband but be independent. In Satisfied, Alyssa Bethke shares a compelling collection of relatable essays that will help you embrace and cultivate beauty in your life. Along with healthy recipes and cozy home images, Satisfied will provide you with the knowledge that you are not alone in your fight to be fulfilled. Alyssa shows you the ways in which you are enough—not only for those around you but for yourself.”
Impressions: Reading this book was like having a pep talk with myself. I related so much to the author's personality and struggles. This book is a great example of how to respond to anxiety as a woman of faith.
Liked: I liked that each day’s devotional had a relevant verse that I could work on memorizing. The devotional for each day was also not super short but it was not long either, as Goldilocks would say, “it was just right.”
Disliked: I didn’t care for all the pictures in the book. A few would be ok to get to make the author more personable but there were too many and they were all picture perfect which was annoying to look at.
Quotes: “Most likely we will still have to face the things we dread regardless of our prayers, but laying those things down before him allows us to feel hope.”
“Sometimes, it can be easy for me to doubt God’s love for me. Sometimes, I don’t think he likes me. He doesn’t enjoy me much. I wear him out. He’s tired of my mistakes and weaknesses. He doesn’t like how I handled a situation. He can’t believe I’m at this same weak spot, again. It’s easy to believe these things because that’s how my heart responds sometimes to others.”
“We don’t usually notice slow miracles. We want sudden change, prayers answered within a day; we want to know what the plan is, avoid the pain, be in control, enjoy the fruit. But just because we don’t see the fruit right away, have the victory, know the outcome, have full restoration, or see the longing fulfilled doesn’t mean there’s not progress. Doesn’t mean God isn’t actively at work on achieving a miracle at that very moment.”
“I think little habits we do free us to be the people we long to be...But the more we do them, choosing to do the hard things, little by little, one, five, ten minutes at a time, is what will transform our souls. And that’s the miracle.”
“But it takes intentionality. Getting away and asking ourselves who we want to become, who we want our families to become, and then backtracking and choosing one little step that is doable, to implement.”
“Being a woman of faith doesn’t mean we won’t feel fearful; it means that we won’t be defined by fear.”
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.
Finding Hope, Joy, and Contentment Right Where You Are
by Alyssa Joy Bethke
Back of the Book: “Stop focusing on what you lack and start feeling grateful and satisfied with what you have! Touching on topics like fear, worry, dissatisfaction, anxiety, and body image, Alyssa Bethke walks you through issues that rob you of your joy and help you recognize them for what they are: distractions. With all of its expectations and contradictions, this world can take a major toll on us. Be skinny, but not too skinny. Work and hustle but stay home and be a good mom. Be wild and free while tidy and pure. Love your husband but be independent. In Satisfied, Alyssa Bethke shares a compelling collection of relatable essays that will help you embrace and cultivate beauty in your life. Along with healthy recipes and cozy home images, Satisfied will provide you with the knowledge that you are not alone in your fight to be fulfilled. Alyssa shows you the ways in which you are enough—not only for those around you but for yourself.”
Impressions: Reading this book was like having a pep talk with myself. I related so much to the author's personality and struggles. This book is a great example of how to respond to anxiety as a woman of faith.
Liked: I liked that each day’s devotional had a relevant verse that I could work on memorizing. The devotional for each day was also not super short but it was not long either, as Goldilocks would say, “it was just right.”
Disliked: I didn’t care for all the pictures in the book. A few would be ok to get to make the author more personable but there were too many and they were all picture perfect which was annoying to look at.
Quotes: “Most likely we will still have to face the things we dread regardless of our prayers, but laying those things down before him allows us to feel hope.”
“Sometimes, it can be easy for me to doubt God’s love for me. Sometimes, I don’t think he likes me. He doesn’t enjoy me much. I wear him out. He’s tired of my mistakes and weaknesses. He doesn’t like how I handled a situation. He can’t believe I’m at this same weak spot, again. It’s easy to believe these things because that’s how my heart responds sometimes to others.”
“We don’t usually notice slow miracles. We want sudden change, prayers answered within a day; we want to know what the plan is, avoid the pain, be in control, enjoy the fruit. But just because we don’t see the fruit right away, have the victory, know the outcome, have full restoration, or see the longing fulfilled doesn’t mean there’s not progress. Doesn’t mean God isn’t actively at work on achieving a miracle at that very moment.”
“I think little habits we do free us to be the people we long to be...But the more we do them, choosing to do the hard things, little by little, one, five, ten minutes at a time, is what will transform our souls. And that’s the miracle.”
“But it takes intentionality. Getting away and asking ourselves who we want to become, who we want our families to become, and then backtracking and choosing one little step that is doable, to implement.”
“Being a woman of faith doesn’t mean we won’t feel fearful; it means that we won’t be defined by fear.”
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.
September 30, 2022
I’m not sure what to say about this book. I found it odd. Maybe if I knew the author’s intended purpose I would have a different opinion. I read her husband’s book a few months ago and it was fabulous so I found this book while researching more.
This book starts off with a story about her life. No introduction. No explanation. None of the basics are included. You have to continue reading to decipher them. The book contains inspirational stories mixed with a lot of pictures and a handful of recipes thrown in at the end. There were so many pictures that I wonder if it was written originally intended to be used as a photo album or journal. To satisfy my curiosity, I counted. This book has 208 pages and 168 pictures. The pictures don’t usually match up with the chapters and several are reused in the book. The recipe felt so random. There was only one (?) brief mention of a dish she prepared in the book so it felt odd to turn the last page and find recipes. Was there a page count requirement? That would explain the pictures and recipes.
The stories were okay but nothing earth shattering. I didn’t find the author relatable. I hate that bc I did love her husband’s book so very much. The author and I have so much in common, but most of our commonality wasn’t the focus in this book. To elaborate, she mentions being distraught that she couldn’t get the chair of her dreams. The story continues to unfold, but ends with her getting permission from her husband to pay for it out of their savings account. Maybe it was just worded oddly but that really gave me an icky feeling. There is another chapter where she talks about her spending problem as she purchased all brand new pottery barn items to fill inside their $3 million dollar home in Hawaii. The average home price in the USA as of 2022 is $428k. I see nothing wrong with their lifestyle, but when the author is trying to relate to readers and includes details like she did - it doesn’t work.
I feel guilty writing this even though this is a completely honest review so I’m going to include a huge plug for the book Take Back Your Family by Jefferson Bethke. It is phenomenal! Get your hands on a copy now!
This book starts off with a story about her life. No introduction. No explanation. None of the basics are included. You have to continue reading to decipher them. The book contains inspirational stories mixed with a lot of pictures and a handful of recipes thrown in at the end. There were so many pictures that I wonder if it was written originally intended to be used as a photo album or journal. To satisfy my curiosity, I counted. This book has 208 pages and 168 pictures. The pictures don’t usually match up with the chapters and several are reused in the book. The recipe felt so random. There was only one (?) brief mention of a dish she prepared in the book so it felt odd to turn the last page and find recipes. Was there a page count requirement? That would explain the pictures and recipes.
The stories were okay but nothing earth shattering. I didn’t find the author relatable. I hate that bc I did love her husband’s book so very much. The author and I have so much in common, but most of our commonality wasn’t the focus in this book. To elaborate, she mentions being distraught that she couldn’t get the chair of her dreams. The story continues to unfold, but ends with her getting permission from her husband to pay for it out of their savings account. Maybe it was just worded oddly but that really gave me an icky feeling. There is another chapter where she talks about her spending problem as she purchased all brand new pottery barn items to fill inside their $3 million dollar home in Hawaii. The average home price in the USA as of 2022 is $428k. I see nothing wrong with their lifestyle, but when the author is trying to relate to readers and includes details like she did - it doesn’t work.
I feel guilty writing this even though this is a completely honest review so I’m going to include a huge plug for the book Take Back Your Family by Jefferson Bethke. It is phenomenal! Get your hands on a copy now!
June 16, 2021
You know those books you can read over and over again because every single thing written in it makes you feel good deep down to your soul? That’s how I feel when I read Satisfied. When a book can take me through a whirlwind of emotions and makes me think, makes me weep, makes me understand why some things in my life are happening, it’s a book that I will tell everyone about.
I first heard about this book through Alyssa’s Instagram posts. I’ve read several books her and her husband, Jeff Bethke have written and each one has resonated in my heart. Her beautiful family holds the same values as I do, so reading anything they choose to put out, I always buy.
But there was something different about this book. Alyssa shared inserts from different chapters on Instagram as well as in emails. Each one touched my heart, but this particular one hit home for me:
“The Trap Of Comparison.”
I always found myself in constant comparison with other women. Being a millennial Christian woman, the comparison train doesn’t stop.
I just KNEW I needed this book.
Alyssa tells her personal stories of loss, grief, love, hope, hopelessness, loneliness, motivation, and satisfaction in a way that can make you feel like you’re sitting there with her, chatting away with an old friend.
Every chapter she highlights on how she feels in the situations she’s going through and how her love of the Lord heals her soul through her hardships.
She speaks truth in our pursuits for Jesus, faithfully reminding us that our lives are in His hands and for us to be truly Satisfied, we must lean on Him and trust that no matter how hard things are, we can make it through.
Page after page, not only her words captivate the reader, but she shares beautiful photos of her family, friends, home, and life so we get a glimpse into who Alyssa is.
Beginning each chapter with a verse from the Bible, Alyssa shares her stories in which that particular verse helps her in her hour of need.
This book is beautiful, bold, and just the right thing every person needs in their life to feel Satisfied.
I first heard about this book through Alyssa’s Instagram posts. I’ve read several books her and her husband, Jeff Bethke have written and each one has resonated in my heart. Her beautiful family holds the same values as I do, so reading anything they choose to put out, I always buy.
But there was something different about this book. Alyssa shared inserts from different chapters on Instagram as well as in emails. Each one touched my heart, but this particular one hit home for me:
“The Trap Of Comparison.”
I always found myself in constant comparison with other women. Being a millennial Christian woman, the comparison train doesn’t stop.
I just KNEW I needed this book.
Alyssa tells her personal stories of loss, grief, love, hope, hopelessness, loneliness, motivation, and satisfaction in a way that can make you feel like you’re sitting there with her, chatting away with an old friend.
Every chapter she highlights on how she feels in the situations she’s going through and how her love of the Lord heals her soul through her hardships.
She speaks truth in our pursuits for Jesus, faithfully reminding us that our lives are in His hands and for us to be truly Satisfied, we must lean on Him and trust that no matter how hard things are, we can make it through.
Page after page, not only her words captivate the reader, but she shares beautiful photos of her family, friends, home, and life so we get a glimpse into who Alyssa is.
Beginning each chapter with a verse from the Bible, Alyssa shares her stories in which that particular verse helps her in her hour of need.
This book is beautiful, bold, and just the right thing every person needs in their life to feel Satisfied.
July 10, 2021
“Friends, we all are saved and set free and beloved in Jesus. But we also are each given unique callings and giftings in him too. Who are you and what does he want to do through you? Ask him to show you how he sees you, and let those words propel you to be the person he made you to be and to do what he has set forth for you to do. We need you! And others need you to speak life over them.”
“Life is lived in seasons. God does not ask us to do it all. What he asks of us in this current season is to abide in him, to pray, and to find our all in him. He will do the good work through us. He will show his power and might. Our job is to be willing, obedient, and honest. When we let go of the pressures and expectations, embrace our weaknesses, and let his love satisfy us, we can live free and happy lives. No, we can’t do it all, and we aren’t asked to. Yes, we will fail and let others down, but those are moments to humble ourselves and be reminded of his grace.”
“God doesn’t call us to be the best; he simply calls us to be faithful. To slow down; to rest with him; to abide in his presence. When I focus on doing more, or being better, or being more efficient, I actually feel overwhelmed, that I’m not enough, can’t be interrupted, and I’m more focused on the tasks at hand or what I can accomplish than my heart.”
“What does God want me to do today? What does he want me to focus on in his season? What is he calling me to? Not what do I feel pressure to become. Not what do I need to keep up with. Not what is on my to-do list. But what does he want me to be about for his kingdom?”
Thank you Alyssa for being obedient to the Lord in writing this book and sharing your heart. When I got to the end of this book, I truly wished there were more pages to come. This book changed my perspective and mindset. I am already looking forward to reading this book again! Every woman needs to put this book on their must-read list!
“Life is lived in seasons. God does not ask us to do it all. What he asks of us in this current season is to abide in him, to pray, and to find our all in him. He will do the good work through us. He will show his power and might. Our job is to be willing, obedient, and honest. When we let go of the pressures and expectations, embrace our weaknesses, and let his love satisfy us, we can live free and happy lives. No, we can’t do it all, and we aren’t asked to. Yes, we will fail and let others down, but those are moments to humble ourselves and be reminded of his grace.”
“God doesn’t call us to be the best; he simply calls us to be faithful. To slow down; to rest with him; to abide in his presence. When I focus on doing more, or being better, or being more efficient, I actually feel overwhelmed, that I’m not enough, can’t be interrupted, and I’m more focused on the tasks at hand or what I can accomplish than my heart.”
“What does God want me to do today? What does he want me to focus on in his season? What is he calling me to? Not what do I feel pressure to become. Not what do I need to keep up with. Not what is on my to-do list. But what does he want me to be about for his kingdom?”
Thank you Alyssa for being obedient to the Lord in writing this book and sharing your heart. When I got to the end of this book, I truly wished there were more pages to come. This book changed my perspective and mindset. I am already looking forward to reading this book again! Every woman needs to put this book on their must-read list!
June 21, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Worthy Publishing for making Satisfied available for me to read and review.
I love how Alyssa Joy Bethke begins Satisfied. Imagine the perfect table setting and your closest friends. That's where Satisfied starts. And it's a powerful place to open a book. So many times our discontent and dissatisfaction comes from comparing ourselves to other women instead of rejoicing in our uniqueness and what we all bring to the family of God.
Bethke wastes no time at getting to the heart of the matter. Stop comparing yourself to others. Be satisfied in who you are in Christ.
Speaking words of hope, life, comfort and joy, Bethke uses her life experience to encourage women. I relate to so many of the chapters in Satisfied. I suffered a pregnancy loss. Then, there was the anxiety and postpartum depression that came with the pregnancies that followed. I felt unsure of myself in a new church setting. As such, I didn't know if I could put myself out there and build new friendships. Even dissatisfaction or uncertainty in a given moment has overwhelmed me.
Bethke reminds women to find their hope in the Lord. Throughout the book, I found myself remembering His faithfulness to me in my own times of need. He has comforted me, assured me and proven His faithfulness to me. I don't understand his ways, but I know I am being molded into His image.
Satisfied speaks to the soul through Bethke's words and photography, as well as uplifting stories of close friends. In a world overflowing with self help books, Satisfied leads us into the presence of the Lord. This is the perfect book for women in their twenties and thirties.
5 Star
I love how Alyssa Joy Bethke begins Satisfied. Imagine the perfect table setting and your closest friends. That's where Satisfied starts. And it's a powerful place to open a book. So many times our discontent and dissatisfaction comes from comparing ourselves to other women instead of rejoicing in our uniqueness and what we all bring to the family of God.
Bethke wastes no time at getting to the heart of the matter. Stop comparing yourself to others. Be satisfied in who you are in Christ.
Speaking words of hope, life, comfort and joy, Bethke uses her life experience to encourage women. I relate to so many of the chapters in Satisfied. I suffered a pregnancy loss. Then, there was the anxiety and postpartum depression that came with the pregnancies that followed. I felt unsure of myself in a new church setting. As such, I didn't know if I could put myself out there and build new friendships. Even dissatisfaction or uncertainty in a given moment has overwhelmed me.
Bethke reminds women to find their hope in the Lord. Throughout the book, I found myself remembering His faithfulness to me in my own times of need. He has comforted me, assured me and proven His faithfulness to me. I don't understand his ways, but I know I am being molded into His image.
Satisfied speaks to the soul through Bethke's words and photography, as well as uplifting stories of close friends. In a world overflowing with self help books, Satisfied leads us into the presence of the Lord. This is the perfect book for women in their twenties and thirties.
5 Star
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