Quiet: Creating Grace-Based Rhythms for Spending Time with Jesus

by Naomi Vacaro, Phylicia D. Masonheimer (Foreword)

A new approach to quiet time that will refresh your heart and soul.So many of us struggle to create space in our daily routines for time with God. We deeply desire to feel close to Him, but we are constantly asking,How do I create a quiet space with God in my busy, chaotic schedule?Why does having a quiet time require so much effort?Am I the only one who feels this way?We know that setting aside quiet moments with God is important, but for one reason or another, meeting with him on a regular basis just feels hard. In Quiet, Naomi Vacaro, creator of the online community Wholehearted and the Quiet Time Companion journal, offers hope and a unique solution for creating (and maintaining) a quiet-time habit. Naomi will show readers that having daily time with God is simple, attractive, and achievable no matter what season of life they are in. In Quiet she'll explorewhat it means to practice a grace-based approach to quiet time,quiet-time ruts and how to get out of them,and how to conquer feelings of guilt and failure—and move into freedom instead.Time with God can happen anytime, anywhere, and Quiet will help you create new habits to keep you uplifted and enjoy the grace God freely offers.

Genres: Faith, Christian, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Spirituality, Christian Non Fiction, Christianity

247 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 5, 2022

About the author

Naomi Vacaro grew up in Outer Mongolia as a missionary kid before moving to Central Florida at the age of 18. After getting a degree in graphic design, she started working as a wedding photographer and married Matthew Vacaro shortly after. In 2018, Naomi designed a journal called the Quiet Time Companion and launched an online ministry to help Christians develop the daily habit of Bible reading and prayer. She now spends her time writing, running the Wholehearted ministry, and being a stay-at-home mom.

Reviews

[Kristianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quiet was exactly what I needed when I needed it. At a time in my life when I’m tempted to push my quiet time to the side in favor of “more important” tasks, this book was a breath of fresh air and a balm for my discouraged, frustrated heart.

With gracious humility and refreshing honesty, Naomi invites us into her journey of making quiet time not only a reality but a delight. Me too, she whispers to the discouraged Christian who is struggling to read her Bible every day. But it doesn’t always have to be like this. It is possible to have consistent quiet time. Come, she says with a warm smile and outstretched hand, let me show you how.

I really appreciated how Naomi never attacks or condescends in her book. While convicting, this book also impressed on me the importance of grace. Grace is something I’m not always quick to offer to myself or others, and so it was an encouraging reminder that while God wants us to cultivate a regular quiet time rhythm, He doesn’t love us any less when we miss a day. His grace is abundant and sufficient, covering every part of our lives. There are going to be seasons in our lives where we can’t devote as much time to quiet time as we want, and He understands that. What an immense comfort that is!

From the first page, I could deeply relate to Naomi, from her intense feelings of guilt over missing her quiet time, to her experiences as a missionary kid in Mongolia (I’m also an MK!). So often I found myself reflected in her. Her childhood stories and anecdotes added so much depth to an already fantastic book and flowed seamlessly into the lesson she was trying to teach. Naomi has a gift for bringing spiritual truths down to an understandable level and relating it to our everyday lives in a simple yet profound way.

This book was packed full of wisdom. It seemed like I was highlighting every other paragraph! Naomi takes us back to the heart of quiet time—Jesus. It’s not about a to-do list. It’s not about checking off our assigned Bible reading for the day. It’s about building a relationship with our Savior. And when that becomes the focus, quiet time not only becomes a reality, but a delight.

This book not only renewed my resolve to pursue Jesus with my whole heart, mind, and soul, but it reignited an excitement for my quiet time that I haven’t felt in a long time. No matter how hard it can be to consistently stick to quiet time, it is 100% worth it. Because Jesus is worth it.

If you’re feeling discouraged about your lack of quiet time or you find that you’ve lost that spark of anticipation for it (which I would venture to say has probably happened at least once before in your Christian walk), then this book is for you. No matter what stage of life you’re in, whether you’re a college student, a young mom, or a grandmother, Naomi writes to each of you and shows you how in every season of life, you can push through the drudgery and discipline to embrace a sustainable, fulfilling, and joy-filled quiet time.

I was given a complimentary e-ARC by Tyndale House Publishers and was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

QUIET
by Naomi Vacaro
Tyndale House Publishers
Pub Date: Apr 5

I chose QUIET to review because I've struggled recently to have a meaningful time with God each morning as a way to set a firm foundation for the day. And I'm so glad I did! Author Naomi Vacaro, creator of the online community Wholehearted and the Quiet Time Companion journal, offers so many helpful ideas to create wonderful alone time with the Lord that refreshes and renews the Spirit. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to strengthen their faith and build a closer relationship with Jesus.

Thanks to the author, Tyndale House Publishers, Tyndale Momentum, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.

#Quiet #NaomiVacaro #NetGalley #TyndaleHouseTyndaleHouseMomentum

[Kristen Rosener · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a feeling this book would be good, but it proved to be more than merely good; it is fantastic. Mid-way through, I was making plans to add it to my physical shelf at home because it is one I will want to re-read.

As a wife and working mother of three kids, having a quiet time with the Lord comes with frequents bouts of discouragement and frustration. If it doesn't look a certain way, feel a certain way, or last a certain length, I determine that it wasn't good enough. Naomi encourages us with a different perspective and hefty dose of edification.

Naomi weaves her story through the chapters, blending instructions and encouragement with her lifelong pursuit of spending time with Jesus. She shares her struggles, her sins, her sorrows, and her joys in creating a habit of Bible reading, prayer, and worship. From the fruit of her quiet time, she challenges us to cultivate a routine of spending time in God's presence, and shares helpful tips for when we get in a rut (or when we simply have no desire to open our Bible). I especially loved the chapter called "Drudgery, Discipline, and Delight" where she identifies three stages that ebb and flow when it comes to having a consistent quiet time. Her chapter, "Getting Creative" was also very helpful for me.

Time with Jesus is going to look different as we face seasons of change or difficulty, and God's grace meets us where we are. We don't have to have a perfectly quiet house, a hour-long block of time, or an Instagram-worthy atmosphere in order for our time with the Lord to be spiritually refreshing. We simply have to show up. This is a wonderful book that would be of great value to your devotional time.

*** I think it's also important to note that Naomi has a ministry called, "Wholehearted Quiet Time" where you can find her Quiet Time Companion as well as Prayer Prompt guides, apparel, and her beautiful Community Companion. The items in her store would richly bless and enhance your time with the Lord.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as I finished this book I could not wait to read it again. The perfect blend of autobiography and instruction, reading this changed my heart and mindset toward my own daily quiet time. Cannot recommend this book highly enough, whether you’re trying to establish a quiet time or have been at it for years. I only wish I had read it with a pen in hand so I could mark all my favorite passages, but I know I’ll go back through it in the next few days and do just that. Some of what struck me as the most memorable and helpful was the cycle of drudgery/discipline/delight. The idea that those are not once completed always completed phases was incredibly heartening to me.

[Rachelle Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved the memoir-ish style of this book! Coupled with the comprehensive and practical guidance on how to commune with Christ regularly and intentionally, this is a title I recommend to all women!

[Sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am finally finished with this little book. Admittedly, it should not have taken me as long as it did, but I started it right before an unexpectedly busy time for myself and my family. Which is pretty fitting, considering that this book focuses on helping readers to create quiet times with a balance of both discipline and grace. This little book has practical wisdom and encouragement, with questions at the end of each chapter to help you realign your heart posture toward spending time with Jesus. Naomi focuses on the heart and intention behind quiet time as opposed to the aesthetic of it.
I would certainly read this again and recommend to readers of every season!♡

[Vivian Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

an absolute must-read for any women in any stage of life who desire to deepen their quiet time with the Lord!

this is a rare book that is worth revisiting, especially as seasons of life change. what most impressed me was the grace-filled language that Naomi Vacaro writes with. she affirms that communing with our Savior is one of the most important habits we Christians can establish; however, she does not hold a legalistic mindset. Naomi provides insight on the types of seasons we can find ourselves in and how to practically take advantage of each season with grace and joy!

highly recommend!!

[Molly | Visitingmanygoodbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I listened to the audio which was narrated by the author.
Naomi tells stories from her life and shows how the Lord has walked through it with her. She gives helpful tips and wisdom for how to have fulfilling quiet time with God, and gives prayers to help guide you. I think this is a must read for all Christians wanting a more structured quiet time.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quiet: Creating Grace Based Rhythms for Spending Time with Jesus by Naomi Vacaro

Time with the Lord is commanded, but it's also so hard sometimes. Just like in any form of obedience, there is always a struggle between our flesh and the Spirit. And Spending time with our Savior will forever be under attack.

Naomi gets autobiographical in telling her own story of struggling with "Quiet Time." Her story starts when she is 8 years old and goes through her life and each season that has made her time with the Lord change.

She speaks in a very relatable way touching on each thing that can prevent us from having a truly rich quiet time. Whether we are attacked by changing seasons, suffering, or we feel like we are in a rut, this book will help. Many times we think there is a certain way or time we should have quiet time. Or there are specific things that need to happen.

But in this book, we learn that it's about time with Jesus and obedience. There are chapters about reading our Bibles out of guilt, prayer, and listening to the Holy Spirit. There are tips on how to get out of a "quiet time rut" and Turing the drudgery of Bible reading to a joyful time in the presence of the Lord.

I recommend this book for all Christians. This would be good for the new mother struggling to find time to pick up her Bible or the mom with 4 kids running around and no time to herself. It would be helpful for the high schooler, collage student, or the girl working as a cashier. It would be great for the empty nester who has time, but not the desire.

I would also suggest this book be used in discipleship. If you are mentoring someone (there is a chapter on this too) maybe read this book and have your mentee read it too. It would help in learning the discipline as well as give a new perspective on how quiet time is about being with Jesus.

At the end of each chapter there is Scripture to reflect on, questions to ask yourself and pray through, and practical growth tips to implement into your life. At the end of the book is a list of additional resources you could check out to help you dig deeper into God's word.

*I was given an advanced copy of the book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Liza Tabita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I good book to enrich your devotional time. This book offers a lot of tips and heart searching moments, overall a good read. I was hoping for something a little more theoretical than heartwarming read, but that was a personal wish

[Hannah Hardin · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than just an encouragement and good read, this book is a resource and ready friend on my shelf that I will pull out in the various seasons of Life and get practical help, Biblical direction, and sweet camaraderie! #AlwaysMoreJesus

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Naomi does a great job at getting to the heart of the matter. If you're looking for a step by step plan for spending time with Jesus, this isn't it. But it is a call to set your eyes on Him, to BE with him, to stay in the relationship for the long haul, because He's worth it.

There are great questions for reflection as well as action steps at the end of every chapter so it would be great for a group to study together!

[Jorie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️
I honestly struggled a bit with how to rate this book. I agree with another reviewer and feel that maybe I just was not the key demographic…..I’ve been a believer for 20+ years now and so, really, didn’t learn anything new in this book. I did feel encouraged at different points and I did enjoy learning of the authors backstory (I had never heard of her before) but I feel like a newer believer or someone who has really struggled establishing a quiet time may get a lot more out of this then I did. I do plan to hang onto it to someday pass to my daughter when she’s a bit older! I would also consider giving it to someone who is a new believer as a discipleship tool.

The only part that I really wasn’t a fan of was the random little “personal quiet time” blurbs interspersed throughout the chapters from, I assume, friends of the author. It was a bit distracting to be in the flow of reading in the middle of a chapter and then have to stop to read the “sidebar” on a page…and at times it had nothing to do with what the chapter was specifically talking about so it broke up that flow even more. I actually started skipping reading them just so I could keep focused on what I was reading. I think having a section reserved solely for those “personal testimonials” or putting one or two at the end of each chapter would have maybe helped to keep things flowing a bit more smoothly.

But all in all, it was a nice read and the author seems like a wonderful woman with a real heart for encouraging others in their walk of Faith! Again, it may just be better suited for someone who’s newly a believer or someone who has really struggled with establishing a quiet time. But I am glad I read it as it was pleasant and uplifting.

[BJ Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Naomi Vacaro doesn't tell you how you should do quiet. She isn't going to tell you the way you should be spending your devotional time with God. Instead, she is going to share reflections on why it is important to have such a time and, using her own spiritual journey as an example, share some insights and ideas on how she has spent her quiet time.

In this book, Naomi Vacaro walks through her life as a rural and then urban missionary kid in Mongolia, her years in Bible College, her experiences in dating, her early marriage years, and now her life as a wife, mother, and ministry leader. She does this not as a memoir or autobiography, but rather to share snippets of how her personal devotional time has changed and adapted as she has walked through different stages of life. She is using her own personal experiences to relate profound truths that each of us can relate to in our own way. Each chapter also has very brief (usually about two paragraphs each) testimonies of others who have experienced similar things or learned similar lessons through their own quiet time with God.

In this way, Vacaro brilliantly does two things: First, she brings grace-filled encouragement to others to begin or continue on with their personal time. Second, she beautifully conveys the very real truth that we are not alone in our desire and struggle to establish and maintain our daily walk with God. As a result, rather than feeling beat up for not doing better, one walks away from this book inspired to step up and begin more.

[Crystal Doiron · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The burden of earning God’s favor was removed at the Cross two thousand years ago. And he will finish the good, transformational work he began in all who believe in his name.

The reality is that spending time with Jesus will look different in various stages of our lives. Some days will be full of interruptions and discouragement, and we will have to fight hard to draw near to Christ. Some days we will forget altogether, and other days it will seem like our Bible reading and prayer time just falls into place. But no matter what kind of day we’re having, our need for Jesus never diminishes. He gives us grace on the hard days, mercy on the failed days, and overflowing joy on the days when our quiet time happens just the way we want it to. Eventually, all these days will fall away as we stand before Jesus on the threshold of eternity. In that moment, our faith will be made sight, our weaknesses and failures will be washed away for good, and the presence of Christ will be ours forevermore. This is what having a quiet time is all about: knowing Jesus, loving Jesus, and enjoying Jesus.”

[Alyssa Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quiet is the book that so many of us longed would be written. It's such a gracious, honest, down to earth book that draws us back to our own quiet time and offers practical application and understanding of the inner and outer workings of this spiritual habit. I loved the stories of quiet time from so many others and felt the vulnerability of Naomi's own story. At the end of each chapter there is a "your turn" section that sparks questions for reflection and journaling, application, and a prayer. This is not the "oh great, another christian who thinks I have hours to study..." book. This is grace based and carries you through every season, high, low, and in between. I loved every minute of reading this book and only stopped to have my own quiet time. Highly recommend! And when you order it, go to her website and get a Quiet Time Companion journal because they're awesome.

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just what I needed as I have transitioned stages in life. This book was really honest and convicting! I learned a lot from this book even though I have been having a quiet time for a few years. I was unsure how the author would approach this topic given that it is different for everyone, but I thought she did it great at giving information that anyone can use and learn from. The author uses many different examples from her life and quotes from others to speak to how quiet time looks in various seasons of life. I think there is a lot of applications for this book and will be helpful for me now and in the future. If you are looking for a book that will challenge you to grow then this is a great book for you!

*I was given an advanced copy of the book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Nicole Lisa Maria Schrader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quiet: Creating Grace-Based Rhythms for Spending Time with Jesus by Naomi Vacaro is a life-giving—and perhaps life-altering—book which encourages a closer relationship with Jesus Christ by spending time with him. Vacaro shares insights from her life which have deepened her relationship with God. At the end of each chapter she invites readers to Read, Reflect, Grow, and Pray over passages from the Bible, developing their own 'rhythm' with Jesus. Developing a habit of reading the Bible and praying each day is challenging in our busy lives, but Quiet shows us how it can be done without prescription or formula—positively impacting our relationship with God and everyone in our lives. I highly recommend this book for all those serious about pursuing a relationship with Jesus Christ.

[Candice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started writing this review before I even finished the book because that’s how much I was enjoying it. I just finished reading it and gave it to my mom to read.

I came across this book a few months ago and started reading it at the right time. I was in a season of transition and was having a challenging time engaging in consistent Quiet Time.

What I love about this book is how easily relatable it is, regardless of what background you’re from or what season you’re in. It’s filled with stories from women who share similar experiences.

Another thing I love is the practical advice on how I can make Quiet Time a regular part of my life regardless of what season I’m in.

I highly recommend this book to every woman ❤️

[M A · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author is a fellow MK (missionary kid) & I definitely was able to relate to SO much of what she talked about, but it’s good even without that connection! 

In the book “Quiet”, the author encourages us to have a daily quiet time, no matter what that looks like for each person.

I found the book to be motivational & encouraging. It definitely is a book that will “meet you where you’re at!”

Don’t feel that you have to be “in a certain place” to read this book or to enjoy quiet times as she encourages us to do. Everyone is in a different place, & that’s 100% OK!

It’s about what’s in your heart that’s important, not what your Quiet time looks like!

[Maui Rochell · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me such a long time finishing this book because I rarely read physical books but after so many months, here we are, writing a book review!

I'm so happy I purchased this book even after the MIBF in 2022 because it taught me so much about Quiet Time (doing devotions) and its real meaning in every season of life. The author was very empathizing and encouraging along with the real life stories of various women struggling and persevering to keep their quiet time with God.

I also appreciate the reflection questions in each chapter as I've tried to answer them as well! 🥺 I really pray to keep cultivating this spiritual discipline in this world full of distractions and temptations.

[Dtphoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Borrowed a copy from our church and halfway through, I knew this is something I would want to re-read again in the future. Although it would mostly be a great read for wives/mothers, even as a single, I got to get quite a lot from the book about quiet time and how that looks like realistically. Most of what the author shared resonated with me as I had the same experience and thoughts about what a quiet time should be/not be, especially during her earlier years. Although our family background might not be the same, this book made me think of ways on how to spend more time with the Lord and what that can do for me and my relationship with other people, and also the cost that it will bring.

[Ashly Burt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It came across my path exactly when I needed it the most: in the early years of motherhood. I used to have the ideal “quiet time” by myself, first thing in the morning, coffee in hand, no interruptions. That is a far cry from the time I now spend with God as a mama to three under the age of five. This book encouraged me that “quiet” time doesn’t have to be quiet, and it reminded me that God gives grace for the stage of life I’m in currently. It took the pressure off, and changed my perspective. I don’t HAVE to spend time with God; I NEED to spend time with God. Time with Him will look different in each season of life, and there is beauty in that.

[Gina Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the perfect addition to my library and most of all my quiet time with God. Naomi not only talks about her personal quiet time and how it has evolved, she also includes other people’s quiet time routines. That will help the reader to understand that it doesn’t have to follow a specific set of rules. She writes on page 175, “Even though your quiet time might change, God’s love for you never does.”

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is wanting to dive deeper into their relationship with God through learning how to spend quiet times with Him throughout their day.

[Flora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Naomi Vacaro writes with a lot of sympathy, wisdom and encouragement for the person who wants to jump start their quiet time with God. She skillfully weaves different stages of her life in each chapter, starting from childhood, to show how our devotions can change depending on the seasons of our lives and shows how we can make it better.

Well written. Questions at the end helps us to look into our hearts and see where we are in our spiritual journey and how we can personally make changes to get closer to our loving Creator.

4 and a half stars from me.

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book!!! For anyone who may feel like they fail with their quiet times or struggle with finding the "perfect" routine, this book is for you. This book was encouraging and helped me realize that my quiet time does not have to look a certain way. Sometimes, it's just 5 minutes before I have to leave for work, and other times, it's sitting at the table for an hour. The focus is making a habit of spending time with God because it affects all aspects of life(Chapter 11 and 12). I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to grow closer to God!♥️

[Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful read! The book outlines the ways in which quiet time with the Lord changes with seasons. However, the necessity of spending time with Jesus does not. Emphasizing grace and love, Quiet is a reminder that Holy Spirit opens himself to us when we come to sit in his word. My mind and spirit was refreshed, and my heart thankful with the knowledge that having a quiet time is a gift from God and not a requirement.

[Madeline Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful, contemplative, practical, and encouraging book. As someone who has struggled with quiet time guilt and confusion over spiritual practices, this is a breath of fresh air. I’ve felt so much more freedom and peace when it comes to spending time in scripture and prayer. I’d recommend especially to Christian women 18-40, especially to young moms. Naomi’s Instagram is also very encouraging! She’s the real deal :)

[Maya Joelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up. I liked a lot of her points, but I felt I didn't need a whole book to understand her message. Vacaro is part of a branch of Christianity whose emphasis on the importance of daily Bible reading clashes oddly with its insistence that such things are not commanded by God, nor does doing them please him any more than not doing them. To my mind, daily Bible reading is good, and while it is neither commanded nor necessary for salvation, it does please God.

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Would highly recommend reading especially if you struggle with sticking to a quiet time routine! We will all go through different seasons and our quiet time, prayer time and bible reading time will look a little different but don't give up! This book walks through spending time with Jesus in all seasons of life!