ECPA BESTSELLER • Experience the joy of knowing you are prepared for your first look into the eyes of Jesus.
One day, every believer will experience the wonder of coming face-to-face with Jesus. Can you imagine how thrilling that encounter will be? This unique devotional from Anne Graham Lotz and her daughter Rachel-Ruth leads you on a transformational journey so that you can live fully prepared for the awesome moment of the “first look.”
Drawing on the biblical story in which Abraham seeks a woman of character to marry his son Isaac, Preparing to Meet Jesus explores the characteristics God the Father looks for in a bride for His Son, Jesus. Each of these 21 daily reflections, challenges, and prayers reveals how you can pursue a life fully devoted to the One who loves you and gave Himself for you.
Preparing ourselves for Jesus’s imminent return is the greatest privilege and responsibility of our lives. Jesus is coming! Are you ready?
Anne Graham Lotz (born May 1948) is an American Christian evangelist. She is the second daughter of evangelist Billy Graham and his wife Ruth Graham. Anne Graham Lotz accepts speaking invitations worldwide, is founder of AnGeL Ministries, and an award-winning author.
Preparing to Meet Jesus! Wow! How that thought brings tingles down my spine. Yet, when I think about meeting Him face to face, will I be ready? Will He find me as a faithful servant? This twenty one day devotional has helped me think on and ponder on meeting Him and being prepared for it. Anne Graham Lotz and her daughter Rachel-Ruth have written a beautiful and thought-provoking devotional. Each day has practical, easy to read applications and scripture to go along with it. All the while, not taking long to read. So, even the busiest person can read and digest these principles that are Biblical. I pray many will get this book and be ready and prepared to meet Jesus.
*I was given a copy of this book by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers, and this is my honest opinion.
This is an amazing book and really brings to life the story of Rebecca in The Bible. It is a wonderful book that really helps us to see how we should be living our life with the return of Jesus being imminent. It’s a challenging book and is so good that you read it day by day for 21 days. I would highly recommend it especially if you are wanting to have a deeper faith in Jesus.
Lotz and Lotz-Wright offer a challenge to be changed by a worthy goal, preparing for the day when you will come face to face with the Savior. If that's not motivation, I don't know what is. Spiritual direction and formation are popular topics, but are they truly transformational? Have you experienced personal growth in your relationship with God? Lotz and Lotz-Wright suggest striving for a worthy goal, such as preparing to meet Jesus, as a catalyst for change. Their approach may provide the motivation needed for transformation. One way to further explore the topic of spiritual growth and transformation is to consider the role of community in this process. Many spiritual traditions emphasize the importance of being part of a community of like-minded individuals who can provide support, accountability, and encouragement along the way. Whether it's a religious congregation, a meditation group, or a spiritual retreat, finding a community that resonates with your values and goals can be a valuable resource on the journey towards personal transformation. Another aspect to consider is the role of spiritual practices and disciplines in facilitating growth and transformation. Whether it's prayer, meditation, fasting, or other practices, these can be powerful tools for deepening your relationship with God and cultivating a sense of inner peace and clarity. Lotz and Lotz-Wright's emphasis on preparing to meet Jesus can be seen as a call to engage in these practices with a sense of purpose and intentionality, rather than just going through the motions. Ultimately, the question of whether spiritual direction and formation are truly transformational depends on the individual's willingness to engage in the process with an open heart and mind. By setting a worthy goal and seeking out supportive community and spiritual practices, we can create the conditions for transformation to occur.
“Preparing To Meet Jesus” by Ann Graham Lotz and Rachel-Ruth Wright is a 21-day Bible study/Devotional based on Genesis 21, the story of Rebekah. Together, they bring verse by verse the quality and characteristics of Rebekah as the chosen wife for Isaac.
Each day’s entry begins with a deep explanation of each verse being studied as well as includes short story/ anecdote, and a challenge to the reader regarding their own preparation as we prepare to be the bride of the coming King Jesus. And as Rebekah shows, are we ready to meet him? Do we wonder about Him? Do we long for Him? Are we ready for our bridegroom? Several chapters in this book touched me and caused me to take a deep look at my own life, attitudes, and preparedness for eternity.
In my opinion, perhaps the best daily entry is from Day 2: “Have you ever envisioned that glorious day when Jesus will appear? Have you wondered about what He will find you doing – or possibly catch you doing? The Bible says that He will come suddenly, like a thief in the night. There will be no five-minute warning. You won’t be able to call a time-out to stop the argument you’re in the middle of, break off your adulterous affair, get sober after you’ve had too much to drink, change the conversation at your gossipy luncheon, put your phone down and open the Bible, shift from angry words to joyful praise in traffic, or stay late and help your co-worker instead of rushing home after work. His coming will be swift. What will he find you doing?”
I would put this book as one of my favorites as I begin again on Day One and look deeper into my personal readiness and preparations to meet my King!
#PreparingtoMeetJesus #NetGalley
Disclosure: I received this book free via Net Galley. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa....
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations: Amazon, Christian Book, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus345.com
“Preparing to Meet Jesus” is written by the renown Anne Graham Lotz and her equally knowledgeable and dedicated daughter, Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright. Both are rays of sunshine, warm hugs, and founts of wisdom. The book contains 21 days of devotions, and both women contribute their wisdom and knowledge. It was a good idea to have women from 2 generations share their perspectives.
Each day begins with a Bible verse from Genesis that tells the story of Isaac and Rebekah. A thoughtful devotion follows, then a Daily Challenge for the reader, and finally a prayer. Both Mrs. Lotz and Mrs. Wright come across as friendly, caring and deeply committed to the Lord. They brought the Biblical story to life and their thoughts and anecdotes helped to bridge the gap between us and Rebekah. Although I knew the story of Rebekah, I hadn’t realized how much it parallels our own personal stories of us hoping and and praying for our Own Bridegroom and eternal home. Whether you have followed Christ for years, or whether you are just getting acquainted with Him, the authors will welcome and encourage you.
I have to say though, that I’m not sure that the end of the world is as near as these dear women think it is. Yet, we don’t know the day and the hour, and I agree we should be ready. “Amen, come Lord Jesus.”
I recommend this book- one for you and one for a friend. I thank WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.
Disclaimer: I received an advance copy in exchange for giving a review.
In this book, the authors explore the idea of Christians preparing themselves for the return of Christ by exploring principles taken from the story of Isaac and Rebekah in the book of Genesis. I was pleasantly surprised at their ability to take what is, admittedly, not a particularly stand out moment in the Bible and draw parallels to the Christian life. Wright is the primary author, sharing stories from her own life often, but drawing on many other scriptures to consider principles for living. Her mother contributed the preface and epilogue, and her skills as a writer and teacher stand out there.
At times, I felt that Wright indulged in a little too much romanticism - I am not sure if Rebekah and Isaac were madly in love with each other the moment they saw each other, as nice as that may be to imagine. That aside, however, the principles for Christian living that she share are sound. Serving others, having a right attitude, remaining pure, learning from Scripture and being filled spiritually, showing compassion, living with integrity - these are some of the daily themes. The devotional style - one small passage each day, along with specific points for thought and a daily prayer - make it easy for readers to digest a little at a time.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, thought-provoking, and a good reminder for Christians to live each day in such a way as to please God.
One day each of us will have the opportunity to see Jesus face-to-face! I cannot wait for that glorious day in my own life! When each of my parents stepped into the arms of Jesus upon their passing, all I could think of was, “Now they have seen Jesus!” And I was more than just a little jealous.
Anne Graham Lotz and Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright have written a 21-Day Devotional Challenge that is thought-provoking and assuring. Early on, it encourages you to stay steadfast in your personal relationship with God. At the same time, you wait to see Him on that Glorious Day: “We must continue to faithfully live for Jesus in the everyday, including life’s not-so-glamorous tasks. However, in the middle of those menial tasks, we can have an incredible encounter with God.”The book contains daily practical applications and Scripture references for that day. The writers wrote the Daily Devotions concisely to pack a lot of information in a short space. This Devotional is a marvelous tool to help prepare everyone for when they will meet Jesus!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers and NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own and without influence.
Preparing to Meet Jesus is written with such exciting detail of Abraham’s servant’s quest for the bride for Isaac. I know this story well, but the way this was expounded opened my mind to much hidden detail in the very words. It covers in-depth character traits of the servant as well as Rebecca, which can be very applicable to our own lives. Intertwined within the biblical narrative are personal experiences that reflect the humanity and sanctification process of the authors. It makes it easy to relate to knowing these godly women, Anne and Rachel-Ruth, are human too. At the end of each chapter is a personal challenge and beautiful prayer. Likewise, there are delightful tips for regaining focus and marvelous prayers with words of wisdom to prep the soul. I realize now I was spell-bound by the Holy Spirit, reading and digesting every word. I literally could not put this book down! I understand now why. Most books I read for information; however, this book was read with my heart.
Preparing to Meet Jesus is written with such exciting detail of Abraham’s servant’s quest for the bride for Isaac. I know this story well, but the way this was expounded opened my mind to much hidden detail in the very words. It covers in-depth character traits of the servant as well as Rebecca, which can be very applicable to our own lives. Intertwined within the biblical narrative are personal experiences that reflect the humanity and sanctification process of the authors. It makes it easy to relate to knowing these godly women, Anne and Rachel-Ruth, are human too. At the end of each chapter is a personal challenge and beautiful prayer. Likewise, there are delightful tips for regaining focus and marvelous prayers with words of wisdom to prep the soul. I realize now I was spell-bound by the Holy Spirit, reading and digesting every word. I literally could not put this book down! I understand now why. Most books I read for information; however, this book was read with my heart.
This 21 day devotional uses the story of Rebekah, daughter of Laban, to describe the attributes of a true disciple of Jesus. Abraham sent his servant back to his family to find a wife for his son, Isaac. The servant meets Rebekah at the well, and her willingness to provide water for him and his camels shows that she is the perfect choice for a wife. Rebekah is humble and willing to go the extra mile in serving others. Rachel-Ruth focuses on traits such as honesty, hospitality, servanthood, purity, and perseverance, as well as several other traits, to show how disciples of Jesus should think and act. As the end times continue, and we get closer to the return of Christ, Christians must be intentional in their faith, bringing others to Christ through their words and actions. This book provides excellent instructions for Jesus followers who want to walk the walk and be prepared to meet their Savior.
This book is a 21-day devotional that takes the reader through small parts of Rebekah’s story as she meets and marries Isaac. The mother/daughter author duo did an amazing job organizing each day to be easy to follow and easy to be understood.
Each day starts with a verse about Rebekah’s journey. Then one of the authors gives a devotional with a deeper look into the verse and with personal stories. Each day connects to Jesus’ return in the clouds. After the devotional, each day has a challenge and a prayer. These are also meant to encourage the reader to draw closer to the Lord.
I loved every single day of this. I’ve followed Anne Graham Lotz for years on Facebook, but I don’t get on there as much anymore. I wasn’t in any way disappointed in this work of art. I’d buy it for friends and family and for myself.
I received this book from Netgalley for my honest review.
Preparing to Meet Jesus by authors Anne Graham Lots and Rachel-Ruth Lots Wright is a 21-day Christian devotional. These amazing authors did a remarkable job organizing and composing this. It is easy to read and understand.
This devotional is about Rebekah. Each day begins with a Bible verse about her journey. Scripture is followed by a lovely devotional that takes an in-depth look into that verse and includes personal stories. After the reading, readers will find a daily challenge and a prayer. These are very encouraging and inspiring.
I highly recommend this lovely devotional. It would make a nice gift or addition to one ‘s personal collection. It gets a 5 star rating from me. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, but these are my honest review.
I finished reading "Preparing To Meet Jesus" and I am sad it's over! but grateful at the same time. I thoroughly enjoyed the in depth personal stories that weaved from the bible scriptures. I felt like each chapter was a new gift of learning and inspiration. How amazing that God put into us not only our stories and testimonies to share but also to pass down our families stories of how Jesus blessed our lives, to help others have hope. Yes we must prepare for the day when we meet our Savior, face to face. I want to be thankful for the oil that lights my fire on that day. every page of this book made my flame a little bit warmer. I am so thankful! and I highly recommend it to all.
I've read many books by Anne Graham Lotz but this is the first book I've read by her daughter Rachel Ruth. I wasn't quite sure what to expect and was pleasantly surprised. Anne with her distinct writing voice writes the introductory and concluding chapters, while Rachel Ruth writes the 21 devotionals. Rachel-Ruth has her own style that is the perfect compliment to her mothers. I found the content of the book challenging yet encouraging. As a matter of fact, I am reading back through it a second time to allow the books Biblical message sink in a little deeper and to work through the daily challenges.
Anne Graham Lotz is a geiftes speaker & author. I enjoyed doing to a women's retreat that she spoke at over 20 years ago & have read several of her books.
This one did not disappoint. It's a 21-day devotional/challenge. It's easy to read & includes insights into her life. She also gives examples from the Bible.
You will grow closer to God if you challenge yourself & commit to reading & doing the daily challenges.
I was able to preview this ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
This book covered a very important topic for Christians.
Whether you believe in the imminent Rapture of the church (which I do) or not, if you belong to Jesus, sooner or later you will meet Him face to face either through the Rapture or your own death.
As I have thought about my meeting with Jesus over time, I did not want to feel ashamed as I looked into His eyes.
The thoughtful topics addressed in this book gave me a way to prepare for my inevitable meeting with Him. It answered a long held prayer of mine.
Another great, reflective study from the Graham-Lotz family. The authors are the daughter and granddaugher of evangelist Billy Graham. Readers are challenged to prepare to meet Jesus; prepare for a future in Heaven. Using the story of Isaac and Rebecca and their arranged marriage, the story unfolds superbly with lessons in being obedient to God. We are encouraged to be faithful women of God, preparing ourselves for God's promises. Thanks to Multnomah for providing an ARC in exchange for a review in my own words.
Excellent book! I love the Biblical love story. The author brings out the godly characteristics we all hope to have in our lives - faith, hope, love, kindness, humility, obedience, perseverance and many more. The personal examples from her own life help us relate to our own circumstances and families. In so doing, we relate personally to God’s Word. What a wonderful book! I highly recommend it!
The events in our world today serve to remind us that Jesus is coming soon. As His bride, we should be ready for His arrival at any given moment. This book, "Preparing To Meet Jesus" by Anne Graham Lotz and her daughter, Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright, teaches us exactly what Jesus is looking for in His bride through the story of Rebekah. Your heart for Jesus as His bride will be changed. I sincerely encourage you to get a copy today. This is a book you will never regret reading.
This book is so good! I started out with an attitude of "I already know this, these are such a 'Sunday School' questions." Let me tell you. When I finally started letting the HS lead me. Game changer! Also, I highly recommend doing this book with others. I did it with two friends, and we would text each other after we finished reading that days portion. To either say what stood out or what the HS was telling us.
The Book is well written from the heart with solid theology. It will jump start your prayer life if you are in a spiritual rut and or deepen your walk with the Lord.
The authors make you think about the day we will all face at God's appointed time. Am I prepared to meet Jesus? Are you prepared to meet Him?
This been book helped me to see areas of my life where I have been self-centered and complacent. It helped me to refocus my attitude towards others, & has given me more desire to live in anticipation of Jesus's return.
Listened to this on Audible - what a joy to hear it read by Anne Graham Lotz and Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright. Very thought provoking and inspiring read, will be meditating in the message for a long while to come.
Probably a 3.5 I’m rounding up. The content was fine, but I think I expected more when it felt like more of the same. The same is good in many ways, but it wasn’t as inspiring as I expected.