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Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks
Did you know the Bible mentions only two talking animals? Each of these creatures had a different message. The first to speak out was the serpent. This character certainly wasn’t a model. If God was using this snake for a test drive, I can see why he kept the mouths of the other animals closed. This snake in the grass spoke words meant for evil. About two millennium later another animal spoke—the lowly donkey. The beast of burden. This time the animal had words of wisdom.
Susan K. Stewart expected dogs, cats, and the occasional goldfish would be all the pets she’d need. Until the day she met donkeys at a rescue center. A few years after that fateful visit, three donkeys became part of the Stewart family. Susan soon learned these humble creatures are still messengers of wisdom.
Donkey Devos is a collection of forty pearls Susan has learned from spending time learning about her equine friends and chatting with them. She uses her experiences, donkey facts, and Biblical donkey details to share the truths God has taught. The whole family will delight in the donkey tales with a message from God.
Susan K. Stewart expected dogs, cats, and the occasional goldfish would be all the pets she’d need. Until the day she met donkeys at a rescue center. A few years after that fateful visit, three donkeys became part of the Stewart family. Susan soon learned these humble creatures are still messengers of wisdom.
Donkey Devos is a collection of forty pearls Susan has learned from spending time learning about her equine friends and chatting with them. She uses her experiences, donkey facts, and Biblical donkey details to share the truths God has taught. The whole family will delight in the donkey tales with a message from God.
120 pages, Paperback
Published May 28, 2021
1 person is currently reading
3 people want to read
About the author
Susan K. Stewart
3 books15 followersSusan's writing career began with a neighborhood newspaper, drawn and written by hand. Her first published work was a poem in her elementary school "literary" booklet.
Since these humble beginnings, she has written for newspapers and magazines. Her articles have also appeared in The Teaching Home, Tehachapi News, and Sacramento Bee, and she has contributed to several projects. With her husband Bob, Susan self-published "Y2K in the City." Her most recent books are "Science in the Kitchen" and "Preschool: At What Cost?". The 2025 update of "Formatting eBooks for Writers: Convert Your Word File to Kindle" is due out later this year. Susan is also a managing editor with Elk Lake Publishing Inc.
Since 1985, Susan has been bringing her realistic, yet encouraging messages to conferences, retreats, and small groups.
Susan’s trademark is inspiring practical solutions. She brings her experience and openness to each topic. Inspire your audience with Susan’s practical and encouraging presentations.
Since these humble beginnings, she has written for newspapers and magazines. Her articles have also appeared in The Teaching Home, Tehachapi News, and Sacramento Bee, and she has contributed to several projects. With her husband Bob, Susan self-published "Y2K in the City." Her most recent books are "Science in the Kitchen" and "Preschool: At What Cost?". The 2025 update of "Formatting eBooks for Writers: Convert Your Word File to Kindle" is due out later this year. Susan is also a managing editor with Elk Lake Publishing Inc.
Since 1985, Susan has been bringing her realistic, yet encouraging messages to conferences, retreats, and small groups.
Susan’s trademark is inspiring practical solutions. She brings her experience and openness to each topic. Inspire your audience with Susan’s practical and encouraging presentations.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 24, 2024
An Unusual Devotional
It was fascinating to learn donkeys are in the Bible over 400 times. I have limited personal experience with donkeys, but Susan K. Stewart has several donkeys. In DONKEY DEVOS, she has written 40 devotions which overall are focused on listening to God. I found the book and unusual and filled with pointed life lessons about faith and God.
A number of these devotions touched me as I read DONKEY DEVOS. For example, in the devotion called DON’T BE A BALAAM refers to one of the most well-known donkey stories in Numbers 22. Stewart writes, “I don’t choose to be like Balaam. Sometimes I am. I don’t listen – even if my donkeys were to speak English to me. Thinking about my actions, maybe I do make a choice not to listen to God, to go off with my own way of doing things. I tend to get the Cliff Notes of God’s plan then try to implement it my way.” (Page 29) Each devotion ends with a short relevant verse from the Bible.
I enjoyed reading DONKEY DEVOS and highly recommend this book.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his recent 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
It was fascinating to learn donkeys are in the Bible over 400 times. I have limited personal experience with donkeys, but Susan K. Stewart has several donkeys. In DONKEY DEVOS, she has written 40 devotions which overall are focused on listening to God. I found the book and unusual and filled with pointed life lessons about faith and God.
A number of these devotions touched me as I read DONKEY DEVOS. For example, in the devotion called DON’T BE A BALAAM refers to one of the most well-known donkey stories in Numbers 22. Stewart writes, “I don’t choose to be like Balaam. Sometimes I am. I don’t listen – even if my donkeys were to speak English to me. Thinking about my actions, maybe I do make a choice not to listen to God, to go off with my own way of doing things. I tend to get the Cliff Notes of God’s plan then try to implement it my way.” (Page 29) Each devotion ends with a short relevant verse from the Bible.
I enjoyed reading DONKEY DEVOS and highly recommend this book.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his recent 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
December 15, 2021
A Fresh Look at Life!
From a donkey 's perspective --the author uses her pet donkeys to learn and share with us valuable life lessons . A fun reminder of biblical principles.
From a donkey 's perspective --the author uses her pet donkeys to learn and share with us valuable life lessons . A fun reminder of biblical principles.
August 22, 2021
I must confess that when I saw the title of this book I laughed. What did donkeys and devotional have to do with each other? The old saying! “Never judge a book by its cover,” is exactly why the statement is true. I started reading and found some very interesting info about donkeys such as they are mentioned more than four hundred times in the Bible. There must be a reason for that and I became intrigued with the book.
I liked how the author pointed out that donkeys don’t go where they don’t think they are safe from harm. I can’t say the same for any of us. We sense danger but push ahead anyway thinking we will be okay. After making a bad decision we find ourselves going down a path that could lead us away from God’s protection. I guess donkeys are pretty smart after all and I certainly took notice of the nuggets of wisdom in the book.
I really liked the chapter where it talked about being bored. Donkeys get bored and find ways to amuse themselves like chewing up a delivery box that was left too close to them. During worship service do we find ourselves bored? Does our mind start to wander on other things and forget where we are at? I am guilty of this and sometimes even think , “ why are we singing the same song we did last week?” At that moment my critical spirit comes in and I have closed myself off from the presence of God. What we need to do is ask God to help us stay focused on Him and keep our minds clear of anything that is distracting us from entering into His presence .
I loved the book and read it twice because there were some great points I wanted to ponder on. The author includes many scriptures that helped me understand what each chapter was about. This is a good tool to use for a daily devotional and the perfect gift to give to someone.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I liked how the author pointed out that donkeys don’t go where they don’t think they are safe from harm. I can’t say the same for any of us. We sense danger but push ahead anyway thinking we will be okay. After making a bad decision we find ourselves going down a path that could lead us away from God’s protection. I guess donkeys are pretty smart after all and I certainly took notice of the nuggets of wisdom in the book.
I really liked the chapter where it talked about being bored. Donkeys get bored and find ways to amuse themselves like chewing up a delivery box that was left too close to them. During worship service do we find ourselves bored? Does our mind start to wander on other things and forget where we are at? I am guilty of this and sometimes even think , “ why are we singing the same song we did last week?” At that moment my critical spirit comes in and I have closed myself off from the presence of God. What we need to do is ask God to help us stay focused on Him and keep our minds clear of anything that is distracting us from entering into His presence .
I loved the book and read it twice because there were some great points I wanted to ponder on. The author includes many scriptures that helped me understand what each chapter was about. This is a good tool to use for a daily devotional and the perfect gift to give to someone.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
August 18, 2021
I must say I was intrigued to read this book because of the Synopsis of the book. The Synopsis alone really spoke to me that I would I be in for an interesting book. Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks by Susan K. Stewart is the latest book I have had the pleasure to read.
Susan K. Stewart never expected to have Donkeys as a pet, but after a visit to a Donkey Rescue Center, she adopted 3 Donkeys. She knew Donkeys played a key role in the Bible, being they are only 1 of 2 animals in the Bible who actually speak. The Serpent was the other animal to speak, but didn't add much. The Donkey seemed to have words of wisdom in the Bible. Susan has written a Devotional Book based on her chats with her 3 Donkeys that she raises. The Devotional book is filled with 40 Stories of Wisdom and Biblical truths from her chats with her beloved pets.
Devotional Time is an important part of my day. I prefer to use Devotional books, so I was very interested in this book. I really think that is very unique and interesting. I never knew that there were only 2 animals who spoke in the Bible. My family and I totally enjoyed the Wisdom within the stories and the fact that Author Susan K. Stewart was able to assemble a unique Devotional through her chats with her Donkeys. A VERY Encouraging Devotional Book and would make a great gift for Animal Lovers!
Susan K. Stewart never expected to have Donkeys as a pet, but after a visit to a Donkey Rescue Center, she adopted 3 Donkeys. She knew Donkeys played a key role in the Bible, being they are only 1 of 2 animals in the Bible who actually speak. The Serpent was the other animal to speak, but didn't add much. The Donkey seemed to have words of wisdom in the Bible. Susan has written a Devotional Book based on her chats with her 3 Donkeys that she raises. The Devotional book is filled with 40 Stories of Wisdom and Biblical truths from her chats with her beloved pets.
Devotional Time is an important part of my day. I prefer to use Devotional books, so I was very interested in this book. I really think that is very unique and interesting. I never knew that there were only 2 animals who spoke in the Bible. My family and I totally enjoyed the Wisdom within the stories and the fact that Author Susan K. Stewart was able to assemble a unique Devotional through her chats with her Donkeys. A VERY Encouraging Devotional Book and would make a great gift for Animal Lovers!
February 1, 2025
You will enjoy this devo, especially if you work with the free guide during Lent. The author has organized the devotionals to correspond to a theme for the day. A great companion guide to the original book.
I particularly enjoyed how the author weaved spiritual truth from the donkeys' antics. Almost made me want to get one. But I live in an apartment … so not possible.
Get your copy today. I highly recommend this book.
I particularly enjoyed how the author weaved spiritual truth from the donkeys' antics. Almost made me want to get one. But I live in an apartment … so not possible.
Get your copy today. I highly recommend this book.
August 23, 2021
I found the title Donkey Devos intriguing, and I definitely enjoyed reading this devotional. I learned a lot about donkeys and their role in the Bible. The importance of socialization for donkeys caught my attention, especially since I know we humans have a need for socialization as well.
With Bible verses, Bible truths, and discussions about God along with donkeys, this devotional provides information and insights into God’s kingdom
So if you want to explore God’s word along with His wisdom, check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
With Bible verses, Bible truths, and discussions about God along with donkeys, this devotional provides information and insights into God’s kingdom
So if you want to explore God’s word along with His wisdom, check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
August 19, 2021
I've often heard the story of Balaam and his talking donkey, but this book has given me a new understanding of Numbers 22. Author Susan K. Stewart has a deep love for donkeys, and her experiences with them have shown her that humans and donkeys are very much alike. She tells what she's learned in Donkey Devos, a collection of forty devotions. These devotions are both touching and humorous, and at the end of each one, Stewart shares Bible scripture that is applicable to her thoughts and observations.
Devotionals are meant to enhance your worship time by deepening your knowledge, and Stewart has certainly accomplished this with this well-written book. I enjoyed learning more about an animal that is often considered a lowly part of God's Creation, but is, in fact, a very important part of Bible history! I recommend that you add Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks to your list of worship resources.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Devotionals are meant to enhance your worship time by deepening your knowledge, and Stewart has certainly accomplished this with this well-written book. I enjoyed learning more about an animal that is often considered a lowly part of God's Creation, but is, in fact, a very important part of Bible history! I recommend that you add Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks to your list of worship resources.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
August 20, 2021
Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks is a Devotion that is written by: Susan K. Stewart. When I first received this book, I was like, this is an interesting concept. However, I love Devotions and love hearing what God has to say through the books that I review. I got this book in the mail and even my 8 and 10 year old boys were intrigued by it. Donkeys? Devotions? What in the world.
As I started reading and studying this book this was unlike any book that I have read before. The author has a real gift. She has combined biblical truth, personal stories, and donkeys. This book was a perfect bedtime devotion book. There are about 40 devotions that are about 1-2 pages each. The author's writing flows nicely and there was peace in my soul. I look forward to more devotions that the author may write in the future.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.
As I started reading and studying this book this was unlike any book that I have read before. The author has a real gift. She has combined biblical truth, personal stories, and donkeys. This book was a perfect bedtime devotion book. There are about 40 devotions that are about 1-2 pages each. The author's writing flows nicely and there was peace in my soul. I look forward to more devotions that the author may write in the future.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.
April 2, 2022
I enjoyed these donkey devos. Even donkey shenanigans can point us to Jesus and teach us spiritual lessons! If you’re looking for a unique devotional, this is it.
August 17, 2021
This is a good devotional book. The title and description made me curious so I dove in and have to say that I really enjoyed it. There are devotionals that are short and easy for someone to read and think about, so if you are busy and on the go, this one would work great for you. The scriptures and stories are really well paired.
I will say when I read the back of the book, I had to pull my Bible out and look up the story of the talking Donkey. My family actually had a whole discussion about it :) The author does a great job with making the stories relatable and I think it is a book that can be read over and over as a devotional and still get something new out of it each time depending on what is going on in your life at the time.
5/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I will say when I read the back of the book, I had to pull my Bible out and look up the story of the talking Donkey. My family actually had a whole discussion about it :) The author does a great job with making the stories relatable and I think it is a book that can be read over and over as a devotional and still get something new out of it each time depending on what is going on in your life at the time.
5/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
August 17, 2021
This endearing devotional collection contains enlightening and entertaining personal stories of interaction with donkeys and the spiritual lessons the author has learned from these amazing animals. The book is brief and can be appreciated one devotion a day or a week or simply read straight through. Readers will get to know the author’s pet donkeys and their personalities and quirks, and may laugh or even wipe away tears at times. When the author needs to think or pray, she goes out to talk to her donkeys, and, in this text, she lets us listen in to the wisdom she’s gleaned. After all, a donkey spoke aloud in the Bible, so why should we be surprised that God still instructs through one of his humble creatures? Each devotional entry closes with a pertinent Bible verse, which can cement the lesson in the reader’s mind. So come visit Susan Stewart’s donkeys in her Peaceable Kingdom. You won’t be sorry you did. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
August 15, 2021
Donkey Devos by Susan K. Stewart is full of wisdom to help us grow and focus on Jesus. I loved the idea of thinking about what my donkey would be telling me, and it was a great reminder how the Lord wants our attention and a relationship with us. I was reminded of the Beatitudes, and "bless our the meek, for they will inherit the earth" when I was reading this book. It was a nice reminder that we are fearfully and wonderfully made - and Jesus wants us to come to Him in our weaknesses. He wants to exchange one yoke for His, and be our helpful guide. We can wait, rest, and love under His yoke as we can find joy and thankfulness in any circumstances when we turn to Him. He will change our burdens to bliss, and our limitations to liberation. We are not defined by this world, but by our wonderful creator Jesus. I absolutely adored this book, and highly recommend it.
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August 10, 2021Throughout the years, I have had the chance to read and review a lot of devotionals and have discovered there are quite the wide variety of them... but I have to say when I first read the description for Donkey Devos, I knew it was truly going to be unlike any others I had ever experienced!
This is definitely one of those instances where we're reminded why it's important not to judge a book by it's cover (or perhaps in this case it's title) because honestly, had I seen this one on a shelf with other devotionals, I might not have reached for it. A devotional that talks about donkeys? Who would have thought!? But I was pleasantly surprised! It was not only entertaining, but insightful too. Combining personal stories and scripture, this unique book offers short devotionals that are perfect for taking time to spend time in the Word each day. I'm certainly glad I was able to check it out for myself. While I have not read through each devotion at the time of writing this review, I am certainly liking what I have seen so far!
If you're looking for a unique devotional, this is most certainly one worth checking out. It might just surprise you!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
This is definitely one of those instances where we're reminded why it's important not to judge a book by it's cover (or perhaps in this case it's title) because honestly, had I seen this one on a shelf with other devotionals, I might not have reached for it. A devotional that talks about donkeys? Who would have thought!? But I was pleasantly surprised! It was not only entertaining, but insightful too. Combining personal stories and scripture, this unique book offers short devotionals that are perfect for taking time to spend time in the Word each day. I'm certainly glad I was able to check it out for myself. While I have not read through each devotion at the time of writing this review, I am certainly liking what I have seen so far!
If you're looking for a unique devotional, this is most certainly one worth checking out. It might just surprise you!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
August 14, 2021
"Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks" by Susan K. Stewart wasn't want I was expecting but I am glad about that because it was an excellent book. Each 40 short devotion tells about a lesson the author's donkeys taught her and how we as humans are like them. Each devotion ends with a scripture. I think this book is one that can be read over and over and at anytime of the year because the devotions are not dated. I also enjoyed the little bit of actual data she shared about donkeys. This book would be a great book to read and discuss in a small group as well as the reader pondering these thoughts individually. I definitely recommend it.
I was given a contemporary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I was given a contemporary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
August 17, 2021
The story of Balaam and his talking donkey was one of my favorites as a kid (okay, and it still is!), so I was thrilled to get this book of delightful devotionals of lessons and truths that Susan has learned. My family had a donkey when I was growing up, but we didn't take the opportunity like what Susan has done with this book. I enjoyed this devotional and her voice tremendously!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.
I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.
August 11, 2021
Donkey Devos include a story, thoughts, questions to answer, and a Bible verse. They are short and would be perfect for any busy person be able to do an inspiring devotional every day. I thought it was great!
I received an ebook copy of Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I received an ebook copy of Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
February 13, 2024
What a delightful book! Who would have thought a devotional book about donkeys could be so powerful and insightful. I loved how each devotion gave insights about donkeys and our relationship with God. And especially listening to God's voice.
Besides this book bringing encouragement to everyone, I can recommend it also as a gift for a person whose faith isn't strong or who isn't even a Christian. The messages are easily digested, whether or not a person is interested in donkeys or not.
Besides this book bringing encouragement to everyone, I can recommend it also as a gift for a person whose faith isn't strong or who isn't even a Christian. The messages are easily digested, whether or not a person is interested in donkeys or not.
July 19, 2021
Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks is a great and easy read by Susan K. Stewart. It is a devotional and a little different from those I have read in the past. Each day include a story, thoughts, questions to answer, and a Bible verse. They are short and would be perfect for any busy person be able to do an inspiring devotional every day. I thought it was great!
Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for those who enjoy devotionals and who are looking for inspiration. I would love to read more like this one from Susan K Stewart in the future.
I received a paperback copy of Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for those who enjoy devotionals and who are looking for inspiration. I would love to read more like this one from Susan K Stewart in the future.
I received a paperback copy of Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
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