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Heart Happy: Staying Centered in God's Love Through Chaotic Circumstances
What Does It Take to Find—and Keep— a Happy Heart?
Work stress. Financial fallout. Family problems. Caring for kids. COVID. Today’s fast-paced world has plenty of chaos to offer all of us, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Under circumstances like these, it’s easy to misplace our joy and peace—but we don’t have to.
Author Tricia Goyer understands what it’s like to be pulled in a dozen different directions with the longing and intention to do all things well. A busy homeschooling mom of ten children—several of whom are still in the house—caregiver to her nonagenarian grandmother, speaker, and blogger, she also knows what it feels like to fall short. But through her years of trial and error, she’s found uncomplicated but effective practices for nourishing the soul—and that is of utmost importance, because everything stems from the heart.
Heart Staying Centered in God’s Love through Chaotic Circumstances will inspire you to stay tethered to the Lover of your soul. By taking time to make your heart happy in the Lord, you’ll grow closer to the Heavenly Father, fostering true transformation from the inside out. Peace and joy can be yours—no matter what life dishes up.
Work stress. Financial fallout. Family problems. Caring for kids. COVID. Today’s fast-paced world has plenty of chaos to offer all of us, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Under circumstances like these, it’s easy to misplace our joy and peace—but we don’t have to.
Author Tricia Goyer understands what it’s like to be pulled in a dozen different directions with the longing and intention to do all things well. A busy homeschooling mom of ten children—several of whom are still in the house—caregiver to her nonagenarian grandmother, speaker, and blogger, she also knows what it feels like to fall short. But through her years of trial and error, she’s found uncomplicated but effective practices for nourishing the soul—and that is of utmost importance, because everything stems from the heart.
Heart Staying Centered in God’s Love through Chaotic Circumstances will inspire you to stay tethered to the Lover of your soul. By taking time to make your heart happy in the Lord, you’ll grow closer to the Heavenly Father, fostering true transformation from the inside out. Peace and joy can be yours—no matter what life dishes up.
208 pages, Paperback
Published April 19, 2022
30 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Tricia Goyer
163 books1,675 followersTricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 6, 2022
To be honest, I went in half expecting this to be a book on "More self-care! More self-love!" But ... SURPRISE!! It's about soul-care — taking your heart to Jesus. So much encouragement — without adding extra guilt to your to-do list.
Tricia reminded me that Jesus wants to connect with me as his child, not just give me a list of stuff to do for him. She gently convicted me of hiding my heart behind busyness and accomplishment. She reassured me that God loves me completely, even if I'm not meeting all the needs around me like I'm "supposed to." He loves me for who I am, not what I do (or don't do!).
I was also challenged to restart my habit of seeking him daily. I'd kind of given up, between full days of homeschool and chores, and littles who don't LET me have quiet time. But I am stepping out and asking God to provide the "impossible" — an actual quiet moment, at some point in every day, to read his word and seek his heart. I didn't want to ask; I didn't want to be disappointed again. But Tricia convinced me this is the thing my tired, sore soul needs most.
(And it's working, guys!! He is doing this, not me. God loves us so very, very much, and he wants us to be happy by being close to him!)
Thoroughly practical and patient and wise and sweet, Tricia's book offers that nudge toward Jesus I think many of us are looking for… because, as it turns out, happiness may look completely different than we expect — not pampering ourselves, not peaceful circumstances, not even positive attitudes or a huge spiritual overhaul — just tiny little steps, decisions to let God tend our souls every day.
Tricia reminded me that Jesus wants to connect with me as his child, not just give me a list of stuff to do for him. She gently convicted me of hiding my heart behind busyness and accomplishment. She reassured me that God loves me completely, even if I'm not meeting all the needs around me like I'm "supposed to." He loves me for who I am, not what I do (or don't do!).
I was also challenged to restart my habit of seeking him daily. I'd kind of given up, between full days of homeschool and chores, and littles who don't LET me have quiet time. But I am stepping out and asking God to provide the "impossible" — an actual quiet moment, at some point in every day, to read his word and seek his heart. I didn't want to ask; I didn't want to be disappointed again. But Tricia convinced me this is the thing my tired, sore soul needs most.
(And it's working, guys!! He is doing this, not me. God loves us so very, very much, and he wants us to be happy by being close to him!)
Thoroughly practical and patient and wise and sweet, Tricia's book offers that nudge toward Jesus I think many of us are looking for… because, as it turns out, happiness may look completely different than we expect — not pampering ourselves, not peaceful circumstances, not even positive attitudes or a huge spiritual overhaul — just tiny little steps, decisions to let God tend our souls every day.
February 16, 2022
Heart Happy is filled with honesty and hope. From her own difficult experiences, Tricia Goyer shares how she's drawn closer to God in the midst of chaos and learned to nurture her soul in His presence. I found so much wisdom within these pages and will return to them again. Highly recommended.
— Robin Lee Hatcher, Christy Award winning author of 85 books, including I'll Be Seeing You
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Excellent read. Couldn’t put it down. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = It kept me engaged/entertained. Glad I read it.
2🌟 = The book was fine but not a favorite. Just a matter of personal taste.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, this book didn’t engage me.
— Robin Lee Hatcher, Christy Award winning author of 85 books, including I'll Be Seeing You
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Excellent read. Couldn’t put it down. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = It kept me engaged/entertained. Glad I read it.
2🌟 = The book was fine but not a favorite. Just a matter of personal taste.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, this book didn’t engage me.
April 5, 2022
How to focus on God in chaotic times. I enjoyed this book. It felt as though I had a big sister standing at my side reminding me to look up instead of at my circumstances.
April 23, 2022
Heart Happy, by Tricia Goyer is an important read! There will always be chaotic times in our lives and Tricia does a wonderful job of helping us work through them and grow closer to God. This isn’t meant to be a quick read, but an industrial-strength partner to walk through our days with, encouraging, guiding, instructing challenging, personalizing, so as to lead us closer to the Lord.
The format helps us to slow down, take our time and absorb what we have read. Tricia gives us a ‘going deeper’ section for each chapter, a ‘your turn’ section that offer suggestions for how to apply what we’ve read, and lastly a ‘5 minutes to connect’ that offers practical, doable ideas to implement what we’ve read.
This is a book that I will keep close at hand to re-read for the encouragement, applications, Scripture application, and practical ideas.
The format helps us to slow down, take our time and absorb what we have read. Tricia gives us a ‘going deeper’ section for each chapter, a ‘your turn’ section that offer suggestions for how to apply what we’ve read, and lastly a ‘5 minutes to connect’ that offers practical, doable ideas to implement what we’ve read.
This is a book that I will keep close at hand to re-read for the encouragement, applications, Scripture application, and practical ideas.
April 19, 2022
Tricia Goyer has long been a favorite author of mine. She writes in a conversational, relatable way. The world in which we now live is full of chaos, turmoil, even fear. It is hard to be heart happy in such an environment. Tricia shares how we can have this happiness by keeping our eyes and hearts focused on God's love. I like that, at the end of each chapter, there is a "Five Minutes to Connect" which are suggestions of how to apply to your own life the suggestions she makes in the chapter. If you are looking for a book to help you in your walk to draw closer to God and let Him pour His happiness into your heart, you will certainly want to check out Heart Happy.
April 8, 2022
I've done a lot of studies, read a lot of books. But, with this book, it became personal. As if Jesus said to me, "Do you get it now? Do you see now how much I love you? Do you see that My love is strong enough to get through the pain, the abandonment, the rejection, the trying so hard to fit in and be 'good enough'? I'm here, I've been here all along. You can't outrun or outsin My love."
The author offers solid wisdom, borne of her own experience and searching for answers. She provides questions to ask yourself, to help get you started letting God work on your heart. Her candor and vulnerability, and her daring to be real makes it easier to relate and apply the questions to your own life.
I pray everyone who reads this book finds the message God has just for them. I have a feeling many will.
The author offers solid wisdom, borne of her own experience and searching for answers. She provides questions to ask yourself, to help get you started letting God work on your heart. Her candor and vulnerability, and her daring to be real makes it easier to relate and apply the questions to your own life.
I pray everyone who reads this book finds the message God has just for them. I have a feeling many will.
April 11, 2022
I was very excited to be on this launch team. This book is a breath of fresh air and comforting to a chaotic world we live in. I loved reading stories about her family and how she overcame her struggles. a lot of these chapters resonated with me especially Chapter 9. She gives you plenty of scriptures and exercises for you to journal and meditate on. A must read during these hard times. Book will be out April 19, 2022.
Chapter 9- love this:
we do not have to be someone's punching bag, especially when we feel weak. Even in the midst of suffering, we get to choose how to respond.
Chapter 9- love this:
we do not have to be someone's punching bag, especially when we feel weak. Even in the midst of suffering, we get to choose how to respond.
March 22, 2022
Proverbs 4:23 states, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Tricia’s book helps us understand the critical importance of having a “Happy Heart” rooted in understanding God’s love and provision for us. It’s not about what we can do for the Lord; it is what the Lord has done for us, as He transforms and equips us to live as “on earth as it is in heaven.”
If you are overwhelmed by your circumstances, looking for a fresh perspective, or your heart is heavy, this book is the remedy! Tricia claims, “Happy hearts can be cultivated during unexpected life challenges, loss, and even pandemics.” Yes, they can, and this book is the tool to help those looking for hope!
If you are overwhelmed by your circumstances, looking for a fresh perspective, or your heart is heavy, this book is the remedy! Tricia claims, “Happy hearts can be cultivated during unexpected life challenges, loss, and even pandemics.” Yes, they can, and this book is the tool to help those looking for hope!
April 28, 2022
"Jesus, thank You. I love You, too." Tricia Goyer begins her latest book, Heart Happy, with this very special dedication. She got straight to the point of her message before she even got to page 1, and she drove it home in the Introduction.
In the introductory "Made New" chapter, Tricia shares her a bit of personal history and gives us a glimpse into the current busyness of her current lifestyle. She tells readers how she has in the past (and still sometimes today) battled with trying to move from heartache to happiness by fixing things herself. She always finds that she, in herself, is not enough. She says, "The key to being heart happy (which we all long for!) has nothing to do with what you need to do. Instead, it's all about remembering (again and again) what God has done." Isn't that the truth?!
When I first picked up this book, I was kind of disappointed in the title. I thought it was a little fluffy, like it hinted at the popular self-care topics on newsstand covers. Once I dove into Tricia's message, though, and especially after I read Chapter 5. She really should have put this one closer to the beginning, but it's there, and that's what's important. Apparently, I'm not alone about the title. Tricia said other people told her they didn't really connect with the word "happy," because it's, well, too fluffy. It made them think of theme parks, warm-from-the-oven desserts, and found money, not finding satisfaction in our Savior.
Well, the modern "feeling or showing pleasure or contentment" definition contrasts with Hebrew terms in Psalms. Tricia directs us to Psalm 1:1-2, where the Hebrew word "esher," which means "happy" is translated in this verse as "blessed." She goes on to explain "esher," which is derived from "ashar," meaning "to be straight" or "right." If we look at the biblical context, we find that being "heart happy" is not necessarily a feeling of pleasure, but an act of being "straight" or "right" with God.
Throughout the book, Tricia encourages the reader with reminders that nourishing our soul is vital to maintaining this "rightness." We do this by releasing our own perceived control and handing it over to God. His ways are best, after all. We also need to remember that we will experience difficulties and pain, but those times can draw us closer to the Lord if we take the focus off ourselves and fix our eyes on Him. Each chapter aids this endeavor with a summary, thought questions, and a "5 Minutes to Connect" section.
Tricia closes by saying that, yes, we do need to care for ourselves physically, but true joy is to be found in spending time in God's Word, trusting in Him, and to turn our attention to Jesus's face upon us.
In the introductory "Made New" chapter, Tricia shares her a bit of personal history and gives us a glimpse into the current busyness of her current lifestyle. She tells readers how she has in the past (and still sometimes today) battled with trying to move from heartache to happiness by fixing things herself. She always finds that she, in herself, is not enough. She says, "The key to being heart happy (which we all long for!) has nothing to do with what you need to do. Instead, it's all about remembering (again and again) what God has done." Isn't that the truth?!
When I first picked up this book, I was kind of disappointed in the title. I thought it was a little fluffy, like it hinted at the popular self-care topics on newsstand covers. Once I dove into Tricia's message, though, and especially after I read Chapter 5. She really should have put this one closer to the beginning, but it's there, and that's what's important. Apparently, I'm not alone about the title. Tricia said other people told her they didn't really connect with the word "happy," because it's, well, too fluffy. It made them think of theme parks, warm-from-the-oven desserts, and found money, not finding satisfaction in our Savior.
Well, the modern "feeling or showing pleasure or contentment" definition contrasts with Hebrew terms in Psalms. Tricia directs us to Psalm 1:1-2, where the Hebrew word "esher," which means "happy" is translated in this verse as "blessed." She goes on to explain "esher," which is derived from "ashar," meaning "to be straight" or "right." If we look at the biblical context, we find that being "heart happy" is not necessarily a feeling of pleasure, but an act of being "straight" or "right" with God.
Throughout the book, Tricia encourages the reader with reminders that nourishing our soul is vital to maintaining this "rightness." We do this by releasing our own perceived control and handing it over to God. His ways are best, after all. We also need to remember that we will experience difficulties and pain, but those times can draw us closer to the Lord if we take the focus off ourselves and fix our eyes on Him. Each chapter aids this endeavor with a summary, thought questions, and a "5 Minutes to Connect" section.
Tricia closes by saying that, yes, we do need to care for ourselves physically, but true joy is to be found in spending time in God's Word, trusting in Him, and to turn our attention to Jesus's face upon us.
April 6, 2022
Book review: Heart Happy by Tricia Goyer
Topic: Finding true happiness in the Lord
Who it may interest: Anyone who knows God loves them but doesn’t feel it. Anyone feeling bound by shame, lies, or the circumstances of life. Anyone who tends to work to earn love. Anyone wanting to grow even more in their relationship with God.
Helpfulness: For the longest time I felt selfish for happiness, yet I wanted it all at the same time. In the middle of the Covid shut down I started thinking if my Grandma. What I remember most about her is how happy she was, despite the fact that her life was far from easy. It sent me on a quest to find out what happiness looks like in a Christian life. Tricia not only paints a picture of true happiness and how to find it, she does such a beautiful job of weaving it together with the reality of the hurts we face in this life. For me, this book was a combination of reassuring me I’m on the right path as well as a cool quenching drink to parched areas of my soul. If you are struggling with your connection to God, this book is rich in guidance and I would highly recommend it. Tricia skillfully blends real life wrestlings with truth in a really relatable, hope filled message. Our circumstances are different but feelings are the same. I was very encouraged by her story and teachings. I also loved the term she used: soul care. Self care is big right now, but we need something deeper, we need soul care. Tricia shows us what that looks like.
Ease of reading: Easy
Main takeaway: Before we serve, before we do anything, we must find rest in our Father’s love. Out of the abundance of our heart our actions flow. That abundance comes from loving God and being loved by Him. I love this quote from the book: “Happy hearts aren’t dependent on what one has or does. It’s the inner workings that change the outward attitudes.”
Extra thoughts: I really appreciated how real and vulnerable she wrote. She didn’t shy away from the challenges she faced, but instead wove in the lessons that came with the challenges. I could relate with them and it gave me hope to walk through my own. Like all of Tricia’s teachings, this resonated deeply with me. It’s something I will revisit knowing I will need these reminders again in the future as well as today.
Topic: Finding true happiness in the Lord
Who it may interest: Anyone who knows God loves them but doesn’t feel it. Anyone feeling bound by shame, lies, or the circumstances of life. Anyone who tends to work to earn love. Anyone wanting to grow even more in their relationship with God.
Helpfulness: For the longest time I felt selfish for happiness, yet I wanted it all at the same time. In the middle of the Covid shut down I started thinking if my Grandma. What I remember most about her is how happy she was, despite the fact that her life was far from easy. It sent me on a quest to find out what happiness looks like in a Christian life. Tricia not only paints a picture of true happiness and how to find it, she does such a beautiful job of weaving it together with the reality of the hurts we face in this life. For me, this book was a combination of reassuring me I’m on the right path as well as a cool quenching drink to parched areas of my soul. If you are struggling with your connection to God, this book is rich in guidance and I would highly recommend it. Tricia skillfully blends real life wrestlings with truth in a really relatable, hope filled message. Our circumstances are different but feelings are the same. I was very encouraged by her story and teachings. I also loved the term she used: soul care. Self care is big right now, but we need something deeper, we need soul care. Tricia shows us what that looks like.
Ease of reading: Easy
Main takeaway: Before we serve, before we do anything, we must find rest in our Father’s love. Out of the abundance of our heart our actions flow. That abundance comes from loving God and being loved by Him. I love this quote from the book: “Happy hearts aren’t dependent on what one has or does. It’s the inner workings that change the outward attitudes.”
Extra thoughts: I really appreciated how real and vulnerable she wrote. She didn’t shy away from the challenges she faced, but instead wove in the lessons that came with the challenges. I could relate with them and it gave me hope to walk through my own. Like all of Tricia’s teachings, this resonated deeply with me. It’s something I will revisit knowing I will need these reminders again in the future as well as today.
April 20, 2022
I was excited to read Tricia Goyer’s “Heart Happy” from the get-go because of its compelling tagline: “Staying centered in God’s love through chaotic circumstances.” This has been a consistent challenge for me over the years—complicated further by recent pandemic stress—and I was eager to learn what Tricia, an author I’ve followed in the homeschooling world, would share on this topic.
Right from the start, Tricia invites readers into the realities of her daily struggles, establishing common ground with those of us who were likely in the midst of parenting, relationship, financial, career, and/or health challenges when the added pressure of the pandemic hit. She’s quick to point out that although the wisdom she uncovered on her journey out of overwhelm—found in scripture and expounded upon by other Christian writers—is nothing new, it was transformative when she applied it to her daily life and resulted in a personal breakthrough.
The insights Tricia shares are wrapped in candid, vulnerable storytelling, honestly portraying the nitty-gritty hardships of putting God's wisdom into practice while showing us that this heart transformation is possible. I appreciate that Tricia has identified principles that can be applied right away, sharing practical steps and daily practices that support a shift in our perspective—starting with allowing ourselves the time and space for “soul care” that leads to a happier heart and ability to rest in God's love rather than striving to earn it.
Tricia’s reassuring words and practical takeaways are a hope-filled breath of fresh air and a supportive hug for anyone who feels buried by the weight of chaotic circumstances. If you’re overwhelmed, covering up your pain with busyness, or collapsing under the pressure of burdens you weren’t meant to carry on your own, Tricia wants you to know you’re not alone. Her story demonstrates how proper soul care can lead to a happy heart, which blossoms into a thriving life.
Right from the start, Tricia invites readers into the realities of her daily struggles, establishing common ground with those of us who were likely in the midst of parenting, relationship, financial, career, and/or health challenges when the added pressure of the pandemic hit. She’s quick to point out that although the wisdom she uncovered on her journey out of overwhelm—found in scripture and expounded upon by other Christian writers—is nothing new, it was transformative when she applied it to her daily life and resulted in a personal breakthrough.
The insights Tricia shares are wrapped in candid, vulnerable storytelling, honestly portraying the nitty-gritty hardships of putting God's wisdom into practice while showing us that this heart transformation is possible. I appreciate that Tricia has identified principles that can be applied right away, sharing practical steps and daily practices that support a shift in our perspective—starting with allowing ourselves the time and space for “soul care” that leads to a happier heart and ability to rest in God's love rather than striving to earn it.
Tricia’s reassuring words and practical takeaways are a hope-filled breath of fresh air and a supportive hug for anyone who feels buried by the weight of chaotic circumstances. If you’re overwhelmed, covering up your pain with busyness, or collapsing under the pressure of burdens you weren’t meant to carry on your own, Tricia wants you to know you’re not alone. Her story demonstrates how proper soul care can lead to a happy heart, which blossoms into a thriving life.
April 27, 2022
If you were to know me, I am a high extrovert. Always positive. Going places and doing life. Seeing the good in all. Even when I was diagnosed with cancer in the summer of '17, radical surgery in '18 to keep it away, (side note I have been cancer free 4 years now), I knew there was a plan in and through it all. I was able to be joyful. Don't get me wrong, I had days I was feeling down I was able to keep the joy in knowing I was not only going to be a survivor, but a thriver. Then a pandemic hit. My life really changed. I began to have anxiety attacks when I would go out of the house. As a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom I was used to being at home, yet this was different. Something was gone. I was not even aware of it. Those around me noticed and not until my husband said that my joy seemed to be gone did I see it. He was right. Being away from all of life activities hit me hard. Slowly after 2 years of struggling, I was getting back to the me I knew. Life was good. Yet something was still missing and I couldn't quite put a finger on it. When I saw the request for helping Tricia with her book launch of Heart Happy: Staying Centered in God's Love Through Chaotic Circumstances, I knew that was it. I was finding joy, but was I happy. Reading this book has been so good in that she shares her own life experiences. Helping us to see we are not alone. We too, can find our "heart happy". Along with God's word, Tricia weaves her story and others stories to show us how to achieve a Heart Happy life. I love the 5 minutes to connect section at the end of each chapter. By reading this book...I have discovered there is beauty in the chaos. There are so many good takeaways from this book. But my favorite is found on page 17.... true happiness is found in surrender. Peace and contentment come from lifting our eyes to Jesus, understanding that even if we don't get one thing done in that day, we are enough.
Read
April 14, 2022It doesn’t matter what stage of life you are in. The search for happiness can be as elusive as the mythical Loch Ness Monster. In her book, Heart Happy, Tricia Goyer shares from her heart and her life how true happiness begins and ends with a deep relationship with God. In her own words she writes, “Often there is a massive difference between how we see ourselves and how God sees us. I see ‘not enough’. God sees ‘forever mine, beautiful, chosen’.” Tricia reflects back on different, especially challenging aspects of her life that God used to bring her to a place of surrendering and trusting in Him. She draws from her full plate of life experiences as an adoptive mother of several children, wife, homeschooler, writer, and tender caregiver of her grandmother. Tricia introduces the idea of soul care which really is a divine extension of self-care and self-compassion. She shares that meditating on God’s Word allows us to make a profound connection with God that results in a heart and soul that is nourished and truly happy. Tricia relates, “Jesus’ tenderness toward me reminds me to be tender to myself.” And also, “When we are compassionate to ourselves and realize it’s good for us to slow down and connect with God, our feelings will change for the better.”
Each insightful chapter builds on the previous. I especially appreciated the “Five Minutes to Connect” portion at the end of each chapter. They provide positive actions steps you can personally take to make that soul connection with the Lord even if you find yourself in the stormiest of circumstances. You, too, can experience the happiness that is the result of soul care.
Each insightful chapter builds on the previous. I especially appreciated the “Five Minutes to Connect” portion at the end of each chapter. They provide positive actions steps you can personally take to make that soul connection with the Lord even if you find yourself in the stormiest of circumstances. You, too, can experience the happiness that is the result of soul care.
April 9, 2022
Heart happiness. What a beautiful thought! Isn’t that what we all desire? In a world filled with chaos, hurt, failure and fear, isn’t it what we all need? Yet as we muddle through the struggles and disappoints of life, how elusive, how just beyond our grasp true heart happiness often seems. If you can relate, then this is the book for you. I love, love, love this author! And I highly recommend this book. In her sweet and candid way, Tricia Goyer shares her personal journey through a myriad of trails and pain to find true heart happiness. The sincerity and transparency of her writing made me feel as though she were in the room sharing her stories with a dear friend. Each chapter is filled with great insight and wisdom regarding God’s deep desire and intent for our happiness, as well as the traps and pitfalls that so easily rob us of it. Tricia says, “Our heart is happy as we surrender our complete selves to Jesus day by day and then live life (in our thoughts, emotions, and personalities) with Him throughout the day.” While on the surface this might sound simple, for many of us, walking it out can be difficult. So, Tricia generously gives specific examples from her own life along with practical and very doable ways for us to apply what she has learned. I cried more than once as I saw glimpses of myself in Tricia’s struggles, and I’ll most certainly be applying her hard-earned wisdom to my own life. Get this book and get heart happy!
April 13, 2022
Tricia Goyer hits the nail on the head with this book! We can't be "heart happy" until we place our hearts in the hands of the Maker and make dwelling with Him a priority.
If you don't know Tricia's story of how God has brought her through early years of feeling abandoned to teen years of reckless behavior and finally to an adult life dedicated to sharing the word of God in powerful ways, you will be so uplifted when you read this book! And if you already know a little about Tricia, you'll feel drawn into her inner circle as she vulnerably shares the ups and downs she's experienced in her Christian walk.
The format of this book lends itself easily to application and reflection. Readers can't help but be changed through the reading of this book if they follow Tricia's advice. Snag your copy today- your heart will thank you!
If you don't know Tricia's story of how God has brought her through early years of feeling abandoned to teen years of reckless behavior and finally to an adult life dedicated to sharing the word of God in powerful ways, you will be so uplifted when you read this book! And if you already know a little about Tricia, you'll feel drawn into her inner circle as she vulnerably shares the ups and downs she's experienced in her Christian walk.
The format of this book lends itself easily to application and reflection. Readers can't help but be changed through the reading of this book if they follow Tricia's advice. Snag your copy today- your heart will thank you!
April 7, 2022
An excellent memoire-style read that candidly looks into the life of a busy Christian wife, author and home-schooling mother of 10 [7 of whom were adopted from a traumatic background]. Like many women, Tricia's history was less than perfect. Having once had an abortion, then becoming an unwed mother at 17, she finally decided to ask God to help her change. It wasn't all smooth sailing, even for a pastor's wife. While striving to be good enough, old questions about self-worth and guilt caused her to be caught up in the MUST DO MORE mentality until it finally affected her health. Something had to change. She had to change. Tricia shared what helped her genuinely connect with God and see the chaos start dissolving. A book truly worth reading and sharing!
April 19, 2022
I have to admit that I have not completed the book. My life took a crazy turn this weekend, and my family is grieving. However, I am clinging to my Savior and I know He is faithful. There are many things going on in this world that can cause us to lose our joy. Tricia’s book is a reminder, and a practical guide to help you find and keep your joy, and nourish your soul. The daily practices she discusses in Heart Happy will help you stay grounded and keep you close to the Lord. Spending time daily in His word, making time to worship Him, these will keep you Heart Happy. I have already started implementing these practices, and they are helping me through this hard season. I know they will help you too.
July 26, 2022
Tricia has written an encouraging book for any heart that feels “stuck,” overwhelmed, lonely, sad, or apathetic. With comforting verses, challenging questions, and lots of real-life talk, she has given us a treasure. The only “negative” for me was that it was a bit heavy on the homeschool-family-busyness, but I understand that is and has been her life for a long time, so I get it. (And most of it is still very my relatable to my own family life.) It’s a quick read; one that deserves a second read with notes. If your heart needs a little “happy,” get this book!
I was fortunate to be in the launch team for this book, so I was able to read a pre-release ebook. I paid for the physical copy and the opinions are my own.
I was fortunate to be in the launch team for this book, so I was able to read a pre-release ebook. I paid for the physical copy and the opinions are my own.
April 11, 2022
As a wife, mom of four boys, virtual assistant, and chaos coordinator extraordinaire, I often feel overwhelmed by all the “noise” of the world and this often has a tendency to take me under in a current of emotions. Lately, happiness hasn’t been one of those emotions. In a world that often tries to tell you where to find your happiness- this book that Tricia writes, reminds us that our happiness is found in the Lord and there isn’t a checklist to achieve it. It’s simply seeking him and residing in His presence. Loved this simple and sweet reminder of who truly can make my heart happy again. ❤️
April 18, 2022
Written in plain, everyday language, Heart Happy is a guide to finding peace amidst life's daily challenges through spending time with Jesus. Tricia Goyer gives many touching examples from her own life of challenging times she's faced and how she maintained a happy heart even in the roughest of circumstances. It was honest, vulnerable, and very practical. She made me understand even more deeply that Jesus wants to be with us and carry us and talk with us, and too often we're the ones who keep that from happening due to mental barriers such as, "I'm not good enough."
A great read for rough times, for great times, and for everything in-between.
A great read for rough times, for great times, and for everything in-between.
April 18, 2022
An absolutely beautiful book, in the trying times of today it was so nice to find a book that was able to help me find that Godly peace in the midst of the unknown. I now have established a routine that puts God rightfully first in the early morning. I’m able to connect with Him and find that peace that I can now carry throughout the entirety of my day, which flows over my household resulting in not just a Happy Heart but also a Happy Home. Becoming Heart Happy has CHANGED my entire world and my fullness of true happiness. I thank God for helping me find this incredible book, 5 stars… I would give it 10 if I could.
April 20, 2022
Timely for this season.
When I started reading this book, I couldn’t put it down. Tricia writes as she is speaking directly to you. As a large family mom, their were so many moments in the book that I can relate to. Tricia reminds you that the key to keeping your heart happy when your circumstances aren’t is staying centered in God’s Word and what He says about you. I love her digging deeper, connecting with Jesus, and five tips at the end of each chapter. This book is filled with practical application, heart warming stories, and incredible truths from God’s Word. It’s a must read.
When I started reading this book, I couldn’t put it down. Tricia writes as she is speaking directly to you. As a large family mom, their were so many moments in the book that I can relate to. Tricia reminds you that the key to keeping your heart happy when your circumstances aren’t is staying centered in God’s Word and what He says about you. I love her digging deeper, connecting with Jesus, and five tips at the end of each chapter. This book is filled with practical application, heart warming stories, and incredible truths from God’s Word. It’s a must read.
April 29, 2022
Open and honest help for todays world.
I love Tricia Goyer! She is so totally honest and open about her struggles and troubles. It helps to not feel so alone in this world today. I have found her book to be so helpful in dealing with the trials and issues that my family has faced over the last few years. She uses scripture to stand on her points and tips but she also uses her personal struggles. In todays world everyone tries to put on a perfect face but she is open and raw in her sharing to help you deal with things. I plan to go back through the book and mark and write down the important things I want to remember.
I love Tricia Goyer! She is so totally honest and open about her struggles and troubles. It helps to not feel so alone in this world today. I have found her book to be so helpful in dealing with the trials and issues that my family has faced over the last few years. She uses scripture to stand on her points and tips but she also uses her personal struggles. In todays world everyone tries to put on a perfect face but she is open and raw in her sharing to help you deal with things. I plan to go back through the book and mark and write down the important things I want to remember.
April 16, 2022
I've been blessed by Tricia Goyer's writing for years, and when I saw the opportunity to read her new book before it released, I was really excited to do so. What I didn't expect was how much God would use it in my life to confirm the things He's already been speaking to me about this year! The book encourages us to draw near to Him and focus on that most-important relationship. Rather than making time with God just one more thing to check off the list, or view it as merely a learning time, we can approach Him with the joy and expectation that accompanies spending time with a good Friend - a Friend Who truly loves us and desires to spend time with us, too. This book has reminded me of His undeserved and gracious love for me, and inspires me to rest in Him more and extend the same love to others.
April 18, 2022
Heart Happy - a beautiful title to share the focus of the book-God’s heart for you and where our weary hearts find “happy”! Tricia fleshes this out to the reader in her deep real-life experiences and her deeper insights into God’s Word! Tricia uses phrases like “Rushmore” and “do-more” describing how our hearts can feel in all seasons of life. I loved all the practical advise she offers to align our hearts with God’s own heart-not adding to the “Rushmore” and “do-more”!! A book for sin-sick weary hearts who are doing “all the things”, but still aren’t “happy”.
April 19, 2022
As a mom still in the trenches with teenagers, middle schoolers, and elementary age children, my schedule is full to bursting between marriage, motherhood, and ministry. Heart Happy was such an encouragement in the midst of the busyness, reminding me of the necessity to keep my relationship with Jesus my highest priority. When I continually recognize Him as my greatest joy, a happy heart is the natural reward, and from that state I can pour that peace over my family, regardless of my circumstances.
April 13, 2022
"Climbing into God's embrace in the middle of our chaos can change everything" is a quote from this extremely encouraging book, Happy Heart. In this time of chaos and confusion it's important to learn how to fight for happiness - Tricia Goyer shows you how. This book is written in an easy to read, engaging manner where you'll feel like you're having coffee with a friend. You'll relate well with Tricia's personal story and you'll find hope for a happy heart.
April 16, 2022
Don’t let the title fool you - if you think this is a fluffy book or a bunch of Christian feel good stories, you are wrong! This book is incredibly down to earth and practical. Tricia Goyer is amazingly transparent about her struggles to find peace in the midst of turmoil. Good practical exercises or suggestions at the end of each chapter to help you cultivate a grateful attitude and a happy heart. If you or someone you know is struggling, this book is for you!
April 19, 2022
I just started my second reading of Tricia's book.
The title tells you a lot, but really--it's about faith in God's love for you and me in the midst of the mess we broken humans call life.
A friend recently asked me to define faith for my four-year-old granddaughter. I replied that faith is believing that what God says is true and acting on it.
And that's what Tricia is all about in Heart Happy.
The title tells you a lot, but really--it's about faith in God's love for you and me in the midst of the mess we broken humans call life.
A friend recently asked me to define faith for my four-year-old granddaughter. I replied that faith is believing that what God says is true and acting on it.
And that's what Tricia is all about in Heart Happy.
April 20, 2022
I found nourishment within my soul through reading "Heart Happy" by Tricia Goyer. Her words encourage, uplift, inspire, and give direction to a heart walking through chaotic times. She writes with hope for the heart as one seeks to know God deeper. Her personal stories are life-giving as they bring a realness to what many readers may have gone through. I found kindness in her words and a reminder of the importance of soul care as it relates to having a happy heart.
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