You want to read your Bible. You know it’s important. And yet, between the constant demands of work and home and the intimidation you feel when trying to read Scripture, you give up.
Don’t let an overflowing schedule and a lack of confidence rob you of the peace, joy, and purpose God offers you. In Fall in Love with God’s Word , Brittany Ann takes a “how to” approach to help
Brittany Ann is an ECPA bestselling author of “Fall in Love with God’s Word” and “Follow God’s Will” and the founder of EquippingGodlyWomen.com, a popular Christian-living website dedicated to helping busy Christian moms find practical ways to go "all in" in faith and family. Her work has been featured on MSN, CBN, The Christian Post, Patheos, Crosswalk, and more.
This was an awesome book. I really liked the chapters about the five different perspectives of the bible and the seven common obstacles. Each chapter had me really thinking about how I approach my time in the word. I had the privilege of reading an advanced digital copy and I really think this book will help others discover their journey in reading the Word.
There were many great suggestions and ideas, based on a reverence for the Word and a (for the most part) correct view of God's Word and our lives as Christians.
It's very insightful, easy-to-read, and practical.
Favorite quotes: “What if we truly enjoyed and looked forward to time in the Word each day? What if we found God's Word fascinating, relevant, helpful, and just what we needed, right when we needed it most?” (p. 11)
“Can you imagine having that kind of faith? Can you imagine being so in love with the Word that you would risk absolutely everything to live it out and share it with a world in need, even in the face of legal persecution and certain death?” (p. 24)
“Christianity is not a get-rich scheme or an easy life-improvement plan.” (p. 28)
“I and countless others have found peace, hope, healing, joy, freedom, passion, and purpose by learning how to read and apply the Word to our lives. Now, I want to help you fall in love with God’s Word and use it to change your life as well.” (p. 28)
“But we must be careful not to forfeit the honor and privilege of sacred communion with God Himself for nothing more than a passive, one-way exchange of information.” (p. 30)
“God’s Word is every bit as powerful today as it’s always been. The problem is we aren’t accessing this power. We’ve gotten so comfortable in our current routines that we don’t even realize the Bible offers us so much more.” (p. 30)
“Far more than a simple storybook, rule book, or instruction manual, the Bible’s words have the power and ability to affect absolutely every aspect of our lives if we let them.” (p. 55)
“if you love reading some parts of the Bible but struggle to read others, the issue may be that you haven’t yet found the right spiritual lens.” (p. 79)
“The first consequence we face when we sin is typically a small, almost imperceptible break in our relationship with God. Our thinking becomes clouded, our judgment is affected, and our conscience is dulled ever so slightly as we slowly begin to crave sin over God, usually without even realizing it.” (p. 103)
“...stop pretending you’re fine when you aren’t, and be honest about your sins and struggles so God can forgive you and heal you.” (p. 106)
“Our good works don’t earn us salvation; they’re the natural response to the salvation God already offers us for free. Similarly, we don’t follow God’s law so that He will love and accept us. We follow God’s law because He already loves and accepts us, because we’re thankful for what He’s done in our lives, and because we trust that His way is right.” (p. 110)
“ This isn’t an exercise in Christian positive thinking. Rather, taking every thought captive to Christ means systematically capturing each thought, comparing it against Scripture, and intentionally rejecting anything that doesn’t line up with God’s Word.” (p.131)
“Let’s not settle for a tiny morsel of God’s presence when He’s prepared a whole feast.” (p. 146)
“And just as Satan intentionally targeted Eve, he still purposefully targets us today, often without us even realizing it. Because he doesn’t start with big sins. He starts with small thoughts, actions, and beliefs that don’t seem that harmful at all. He distracts us with full schedules, hours of mindless entertainment, or the weight of lofty expectations we were never meant to carry—anything to steal our attention from God.” (p. 183)
“Do you see any themes or patterns? Is there a specific root cause you notice popping up again and again? For example, do you regularly struggle with anger, control, perfectionism, pride, jealousy, insecurity, people-pleasing, or fear? Once you know the areas where Satan is most likely to attack you personally, you’re in a much better position to guard yourself in advance and to recognize and resist his attacks when they come.” (p. 192)
“Declare God’s truth out loud every time you are tempted until you believe it to the core of your being. Until Satan’s temptations don’t seem so tempting anymore. Until you live and walk according to God’s Word automatically, without even thinking about it.” (p. 193)
“Following Christ wasn’t easy for Paul, it wasn’t easy for the early Christians, and it isn’t always easy for us today. But just because believing God’s Word and obeying His commands isn’t always easy doesn’t mean we’re doing something wrong or we need to give up.” (p. 194)
“'If you don’t eat, I don’t eat.' … It was a bold move on her part, but it paid off. While I can’t say I never went without food again, her willingness to walk alongside me did eventually lead me to give up my eating disorder for good.” (p. 195) Would I do this?
(I received a copy for free from the author. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own, as was the decision to write this review.)
I love how this book inspires you to read God‘s word without guilt. I think one of my favorite parts was she gives you ideas on how to make a plan for your season of life. As a counselor, I’m so glad she mentioned that reading God‘s word in community can be a rich experience. Finally I’m going to back go back and re-read the chapter again on protecting against spiritual attacks. This chapter especially had unique content that I want to dwell on a little more. My favorite quotes from the book were as follows:
“When God speaks, people are healed, relationships are restored, and futures are redeemed.”
“The Bible never commands that we must read God’s Word every single day—only that we know it well enough to live according to it.”
“Stop pretending you’re fine when you aren’t, and be honest about your sins and struggles so God can forgive you and heal you.”
As I work with counseling and coaching clients who want to grow in their relationships with God because spirituality has a great impact on life balance and mental health, I will definitely be including this book on my list.
Have you ever looked at the Bible, discouraged, because you have no idea how you should read it? Should you start in Genesis? What even is Leviticus? Or do you skip all the Old Testament and go to Matthew? And what is Revelation, anyway?
Many, many people, have had exactly this experience. If you've never read or studied the Bible it can be incredibly difficult to know how to jump in. We're blessed because Brittany Ann has authored the book that not only can help us understand how to get into the Bible...but to fall in love with it and with God at the same time.
This book is divided into 3 segments: 1. Fall in Love with God's Word (what the Bible is, what the books are, how to interpret what you read, and how to know God better as you read and study); 2. Change Your Life Forever (You'll learn how to get out of sin that holds you captive, take charge of your thought life, and grow spiritually with the author's wise counsel and tips to follow); 3. Overcome Obstacles to Growth (learn to recognize the common things that keep us from getting into the Bible, learn to build community, and how to fight spiritual battles).
I've studied the Bible for many years yet I still learned so much from Fall in Love with God's Word: Practical Strategies for Busy Women! It is a joy to read. It is sometimes convicting, yet the author's goal is not harsh correction but lovingly inviting the reader to read and know God and His Word. It's just exceptional.
I received this book free of charge from The BlogAbout Blogger Network. All opinions are my own.
What a wonderful and easy book to follow along with . Brittany takes you on this remarkable journey you never knew existed on reading God’s words. She had some amazing practices to help you work through . I really enjoyed chapter nine. Take control of your Thought Life . This chapter hit home to me. “You can break free from the worries , insecurity and fear that plaque you.” She also added “ If you want to live a life of joy, peace, purpose and freedom you can .” And there’s a way to do , Brittany hells turn your negative thoughts into positive ones . “” “When you seek God above all else His Words become more alive than you’ve ever experienced before “ that’s what I’m looking forward in my walk with His Words. I have so enjoyed each chapter of this book and I would highly recommend this to everyone that wants to Fall in LOVE with God’s Words .
I received a copy from the publisher to give my honest review .
I was honored to be one of the first women to read and review the book, Fall in Love with God’s Word by Brittany Ann. It is one of the first books I have read by this author and found it to be an excellent resource for beginning bible teachers, mentors, and disciples. There is so much information there and resources there.
The book promotes a deeper relationship with God by unearthing the richness of his word. Fall in Love with God’s Word carefully helps the reader learn to study the bible, discover its insights, wisdom and practical application. The book outlines how to investigate Scripture while studying the history, culture, genre and interpret these discoveries within the context and theme they were written. The book challenges the reader to develop new skills, deeper understanding through prayer, principles and methods. The book is thought-provoking. I wouldn’t suggest it for a beginning Christian but for those that are seeking a deeper and richer intimacy with God, want to teach God’s word and mentor others.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Brittany has some very practical tips that I think will help to create good habits for not only reading the Bible regularly but also for making other life changes. I can’t wait for the workbook to come out so I can read this book again and put some of these changes into practice!
Such a lovely book. I had the honor of reading an advanced digital copy and think this book will impact many. So many people need this in their lives. Highly suggest!
I received an advanced review copy of Fall in Love With God’s Word by Brittany Ann just as I started a small women’s group – perfect timing. The book is divided into three parts, each one a practical guide to studying and learning from the Bible. I particularly enjoyed the first part, which gives a clear, concise explanation of the different ways in which we might approach the Bible. None of these on their own is perfect and we need to understand the genre and context of the various books and writings if we are to read and interpret Scripture correctly. Brittany Ann also talks about the different ‘lenses’ with which we view verses, which helps to gain a correct interpretation and application to our lives.
The second part of the book explores how we can root out sin and recognise and replace incorrect teaching and unhelpful/sinful thoughts. Brittany shows that “We don’t read the Bible to learn about God. We read the Bible to meet with God.” and gives practical tips and strategies for doing so. Lastly, Brittany looks at the obstacles we put or permit to stand in our way of growing closer to God. Busyness, tiredness, lack of motivation, distractions, forgetfulness, lack of biblical knowledge, lack of intimacy with God are identified and helpful tips for overcoming these are given. I am passionate about forming spiritually deep relationships with others and so I found the last chapter, Cultivate Spiritual Community, particularly encouraging and affirming.
This is a wonderfully practical manual which does what it says. I’ve just started a new small group of women who want to share ‘more than small talk’ and create community together: this couldn’t have come at a better time. A great book for all Christian women, wherever they might be in their journey with God.
Brittany Ann writes in an easy-to-understand style and this is a wonderful manual for exploring widely while diving deeper into Bible study. One to revisit.
I am thrilled to be part of the launch team for this book! As a Christian wife and mother, I have struggled at times to take the time to read my Bible on a regular daily basis. When I started reading the book I noticed that several quotes jumped out at me. One was on page 25: "God's Word does not have an expiration date". This encourages me to realize that the same God who created the very world we live in today is the same God who provided for the people in the Bible- even though the Bible itself was written long ago, it is still relevant! Another quote is on page 33: " The goal of reading the Bible isn't to be entertained. It's to deepen our relationship with God and change our lives in the process."
Finally, on page 44, " If you want to fall in love with the Bible, you have to spend time in the Bible". This reminds me of when my husband and I were dating, we spent time getting to know each other, to build a solid relationship to last. The same needs to hold true to built a relationship with our Creator! And just think- HE is always available for us! HE knows us - and loves us even in our sinfulness! In conclusion, I would recommend this book to any/all who are looking for a a way to create a stronger, deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, our LORD and Savior, and to truly fall in love (again) with reading God's Word, especially in such a time as this.
As part of the launch team I received an advanced copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review and the opinions expressed are my own. Thank you!
I was lucky enough to receive a promotional copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Brittany has a mission: to help women find more time to read their Bible and develop their relationship with God. What I appreciated most about this book was her honesty about the mistakes she's made in her own life and her recognition and encouragement that none of us are perfect, that we all make mistakes. She has a very thorough approach to her book and lays out everything from the history of the Bible and structural layout to why it is important for one to commit to reading it more regularly and a wide variety of strategies to achieve that goal. I really appreciate that she recommends reading the Bible in context and trying to understand the cultural history behind it, because so many times Biblical passages are taken out of context and used to espouse rigid dogmatic beliefs that aren't really represented in the Bible.
The only reason I gave this book 4 stars is because Brittany comes from a very fundamentalist Christian viewpoint that I can't always relate to. Luckily, every time she started to get a little too "conservative" (for lack of a better word), she would almost immediately bring her book back to a real-life example of humanity in all of its glorious fallacies.
I am excited to be a part of the launch team and was blessed to receive an advanced copy! I’m a child of God, wife, mother of three young children, full time accountant, Bible school teacher, and I coach my daughter’s volleyball team, to name just a few of the many hats I wear. I have just started reading this book, and I’ve really enjoyed it so far! The title grabbed my attention as both loving God’s Word and busy woman both describe me. This book is for women in any season or leg of your Christian journey! It’s got great new ideas for those either curious or just starting out in your personal Bible study, and great reminders for those who’ve been on this journey for years. It also helps give language and ideas to the reader on how to share the topic of Bible study with others and help encourage others to fall in love with God’s Word and get to know Him on an intimate level. I can’t wait to finish the book and I would encourage women to grab a copy and read with an open heart and open mind - along side, not instead of your Bible! This is a great addition to my library!
In this book, Brittany takes you on a wonderful journey in which you learn how to have more enjoyment reading the Bible, and how to have a better understanding of what you are reading. Bonus - you learn a lot about your spiritual self along the way as well.
I really appreciated that she has ideas to help each individual create a plan for reading the Bible that will work best for the particular season of life they are in. Let’s face it, we all have different circumstances, and so a “one size fits all” reading plan typically does not work, and causes many to stop reading altogether.
I had the honor of reading a digital advance reader copy, and there is so much great information that I cannot wait to have this book in my hands and to use it with the accompanying workbook!
This is a game changer for anyone wanting to improve their reading and understanding of the Bible, or those new to reading the Bible. I am certain this book will be of benefit to many!
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher as part of a book launch team. I signed up for the launch because I’ve gone to church my whole life and I’m horrible at being consistent with reading my Bible. Brittany Ann not only inspires you to read your Bible more but she gives you the tools to do so. She walks you through steps to figure out what the best plan for you is. When and where to do your quiet time, where to start reading, how long to read....and it’s not the same for everyone...she walks you through step-by-step to find what will truly work best for you and where you’re at in your life right now. I am ordering a hard copy of this book so that I can read it again and highlight throughout. Brittany definitely makes you excited to get into a routine that will help you truly fall in love with God’s word....whether it’s the first time, or just reminding you. I highly recommend this book if you need motivation or inspiration to read your Bible.
Fall in Love with God's Word will help you do just that. I've been reading the Bible my entire life. I went to Lutheran grade schools, high school, and even a Lutheran college. I took courses like Bible as Literature to help me understand it better. But this book has very simply laid out and answered questions that I didn't even know I had after so many years of study. I figured that I had a pretty healthy daily Bible study time. I read and study for at least an hour daily. But I still always felt something was lacking. And I found the answer while reading this book. It is incredibly straight-forward, down-to-earth, and practical. Everyone who reads this and implements the simple suggestions should have no trouble growing their own faith life. I highly recommend it to everyone: those who are just beginning their Bible journey to even the most seasoned Bible scholar.
I just finished reading an Advanced Readers Copy of this wonderful book. I like how it is broken down into three parts - how you can fall in love with God's word; how it can change your life forever and how to overcome obstacles of growth.
Fall In Love with God's Word is for the new believer who needs a good understanding of who God is and His love for us or as a refresher for someone who already has a relationship with Him. One of my favorite quotes from the book is "God's word does not have an expiration date".
If you are someone who struggles to find time to study God's word, this book will help you create a new routine. Brittany Ann's writing style is refreshing and inspirational.
I recommend this book for those eager to get started consistently and joyfully reading the Bible as well as those who need a new jump start. The author's enthusiasm is catching . . . you'll find yourself reaching for your Bible to get going on implementing her ideas! Her practical how-to's are a valuable aid to deepening your love for God and His Word. I'm glad I received an advance copy so I can refresh my own Bible reading today!
This is a fantastic book for women who want to dive deeper into God's Word despite their feelings, pasts and other obstacles in the way. Brittany Ann has a way of speaking directly to the heart of the readers. On page 21, she states, "When God speaks, people are healed, relationships are restored, and futures are redeemed." She speaks on the strategies to overcome every obstacle that the reader can come up with the put off spending time in God's Word. Every woman will benefit from reading this book and then keeping it as a resource to keep going back to. So I would recommend it to every woman. I received an advance copy of this book.
Do you need practical tips for Bible reading and spiritual growth? Hostess of the "Equipping God Women" Online Conferences and author of various materials for Bible reading, spiritual growth, and intentional living, Brittany Ann, presents her book "Fall in Love with God's Word: Practical Strategies for Busy Women", published by David C. Cook. The book is divided into three parts: 1) Fall in Love with God's Word, 2) Change Your Live Forever, and 3) overcome Obstacles to Growth. Brittany Ann starts with basic information, e.g. "What is the Bible?", "What Types of Writing Does the Bible Include?", or "Reading Verses in Context." Then she moves on to the creation of spiritual growth plans and also to the obstacles that readers who apply her tips can encounter on their way. She also encourages readers to cultivate spiritual community and states: "Yes, we need God’s Word to guide and strengthen us, but we also need other believers as well. We need people who will challenge, encourage, and inspire us to be in God’s Word and live according to it. We need real friends who will speak their minds, hold us accountable, and pull us out of a funk even when we tell them to go away (p. 196)." I highly appreciate her personal experience which she shares and from which the readers can learn: "...the more time I spend in the Bible, the more it radically transforms every aspect of my life. When I make reading God’s Word a priority, I worry less and trust more... When I make reading God’s Word a priority, I love others more... When I make reading God’s Word a priority, my relationship with God improves... In fact, the simple habit of reading my Bible every day makes such a difference in my life that I can tell a noticeable difference on the days when I don’t read it versus the days when I do. It’s that impactful (p. 20.)" The book really challenges readers to get engaged and if they want to study further they can use the reference notes at the end of the book. I highly recommend the book for young and old, for those who are interested in Bible reading but have not yet started, for those who have just begun the journey, and for those who want to help others on the way of Bible reading and spiritual growth. Although the book is geared toward women it is also a valuable resource for men. The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #FallInLoveWith GodsWord #DavidCCook
I absolutely love a practical book, and that is exactly what this is, it is even in the title! It was well written and thoughtful. I felt that it covered every possible scenario of what was holding me back from connecting further to God's word. The clear examples, and clear steps of how to improve, were so helpful. I really enjoyed this book, and think I will go back to it at future times in my life.
I received an advance copy of the book, which did not influence my review.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. Brittany Ann gives a large amount of information and suggestions to help women on all levels of Bible study increase their closeness to God. The book flows well and the information is easy to follow along with. The website is referenced quite frequently, yet the resources available are spread out throughout the book. This is a great resource to give someone a person is mentoring or in discipleship with.
I was lucky to obtain an advance copy of this book prior to its launch. I found this book easy to read and loved her honest tips, suggestions, techniques and strategies for understanding the bible and setting up a reading plan. One thing I found unique (and liked) was that she talks about sin and Satan which seems to be ignored by many. Thank You Brittany! I am excited to try some of your techniques!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Brittany does a great job showing us the best tips and tricks for learning to love, understand and apply God's Word to our lives. That part of the book, I loved. Why I didn't give the full 5 stars is due to her misinterpretation of a couple of the Scriptures examples that she used. It's easy to lead a newer Christian down the wrong path.
This is the perfect book for anyone ready to grow their relationship with Christ. Unsure what all the books of the Bible mean or who they are written for? This book breaks it down. Unsure how to even begin to spend time with Christ? This book provides multiple steps and suggestions. Just feel stuck sometimes? This book helps you get out!
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone feeling stuck in their faith or are just beginning.
I first encountered this book through a summit of speakers who presented great ideas about engaging with God’s Word. Then I was happy to receive copies of the book from the publisher. Brittany Ann gives practical encouragement in this book, including overcoming common obstacles to Bible study. Whether you’re new to reading the Bible or a seasoned Bible reader, you’ll gain new ideas in this solidly biblical book.
I received a preview copy of Fall in Love with God’s Word from the publisher.
I really am enjoying reading this book. I had the honor of receiving an advanced copy of this book. Reading this book has really helped me because I was struggling in reading my bible and it has helped me discover my journey in reading God's word. If anyone is looking for a closer relationship with God then you should read this book. I highly recommend Fall in Love with God's Word.
If you are looking for a book to help you get in God's word everyday this is it. Brittany breaks Bible reading down for all of those people who are like myself and want to read the Bible, but struggle with getting the most out of what they are reading. If your looking to get the most out of your Bible reading check this book out!!
This is a very good book for anyone who knows they need to read the Bible but has trouble finding the time or sometimes even the desire. It points out reasons why we might not read and solutions. This is not a book to just sit and read, but it has activities for you to do to change your way of thinking and doing.
Took my time on this one. I will probably be reviewing it again. Practical tips, encouragement, and motivation to dig into God's Word. Find creative ways to engage even if your busy or overwhelmed with life. Even includes a chapter on making sure sin is not blocking your ability to hear the Holy Spirit, which I thought is very necessary.
I absolutely love the honesty Brittany Ann offers as well as how she breaks down preconceived notions, approaches to spending time in the Word, and concrete solutions. Lots of food for thought here and it's written in such a way that makes it feel like you're having a chat with your girlfriend.