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A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself and Live in the Security of God’s Promises
Often the biggest obstacle to living out our faith is our own doubt--about our worth, our abilities, our relationship with God, and situations in our lives. A Confident Heart gives voice to the questions, doubts, struggles, and hopes so many women have. Author Renee Swope shows women how to identify, overcome, and even use doubt in order to live confidently in God's power, truth, and grace. Perfect for women's small groups or individuals, A Confident Heart is an authentic, insight-filled and encouraging message for any woman who wants to exchange destructive thought patterns with biblical truth that will transform the way she thinks, feels, and lives.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2011
542 people are currently reading
4275 people want to read
About the author
Renee Swope
11 books63 followersAs a national speaker, author and co-host of Proverbs 31 Ministries’ international radio program, Renee connects with women of all ages and stages in life. She has a unique way of knitting women’s hearts together, inspiring them to no longer compare and compete but to encourage and complete one another. Sprinkled with humor and saturated with Truth, Renee’s messages help women:
Discern God’s voice and apply His Truth in their lives
Exchange insecurity and self-doubt with God-fidence and trust
See beyond who they are to who they can become in Christ
Renee serves as Proverbs 31 Ministries’ Executive Director of Radio and Devotions. She is a regularly featured writer for Encouragement for Today devotions and a contributing author to Leading Women to the Heart of God and God’s Purpose for Every Woman. She has written for the P31 Woman Magazine, Christian Women Online and Focus on Your Child, a division of Focus on the Family. Her highly anticipated book “A Confident Heart” will be released in August 2011!
Discern God’s voice and apply His Truth in their lives
Exchange insecurity and self-doubt with God-fidence and trust
See beyond who they are to who they can become in Christ
Renee serves as Proverbs 31 Ministries’ Executive Director of Radio and Devotions. She is a regularly featured writer for Encouragement for Today devotions and a contributing author to Leading Women to the Heart of God and God’s Purpose for Every Woman. She has written for the P31 Woman Magazine, Christian Women Online and Focus on Your Child, a division of Focus on the Family. Her highly anticipated book “A Confident Heart” will be released in August 2011!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
April 5, 2014
Religious books are very hit or miss for me, and I wasn't really sure if I wanted to read this book. Did I really need another Southern Christian woman telling me my life is incomplete because I don't have a master husband and children to raise? So I began this book as a heavy skeptic.
Swope is far from perfect. She calls her husband cuss words in front of her children. She is quick to quit and walk away from challenges. She suffers from anxiety and depression and has been medicated at moments in her life.
She also believes that she is exactly the way God wants her to be. Women today are under a lot of pressure. To have the perfect family. To have the perfect career. To look a certain way. Act a certain way, and have it all at once. Swope claims that we don't have to be any of that. God created us to live our lives the best way we know how and to use our experiences to help each other. We can throw all of that other stuff out of the window and just say, "God is enough." That takes a lot of pressure off.
And she admits that you will not perfectly live into that mantra every day. Anyone who seems to, well, you don't really know what is going on inside someone else's head. And anyone who says they do, is a liar. That also takes a lot of pressure off. We aren't going to be perfect. All that matters is that we focus on the gifts we have (because we all have them, and we should get to know them) to make our lives and the lives of others as amazing as possible.
I also like that this book doesn't claim that if you just give everything over to God he will make you wealthy, or always happy, or anything like that. God doesn't promise those things, and Swope doesn't either. The simple message is that if we take the time to know ourselves and know God, we will have the confidence to tackle our passions, which is all we are meant to do in the first place.
My favorite quote from the book,something I struggle with, page 138: "Isn't it easy to completely neglect our dreams and desires to meet the needs of everyone around us and call it self-sacrifice? It sounds godly, but in doing so we risk shutting down a place in our soul where God's dreams and gifts are waiting to be revealed. It's not self-seeking but God-seeking to intentionally get to know and become the woman God created you to be."
Swope is far from perfect. She calls her husband cuss words in front of her children. She is quick to quit and walk away from challenges. She suffers from anxiety and depression and has been medicated at moments in her life.
She also believes that she is exactly the way God wants her to be. Women today are under a lot of pressure. To have the perfect family. To have the perfect career. To look a certain way. Act a certain way, and have it all at once. Swope claims that we don't have to be any of that. God created us to live our lives the best way we know how and to use our experiences to help each other. We can throw all of that other stuff out of the window and just say, "God is enough." That takes a lot of pressure off.
And she admits that you will not perfectly live into that mantra every day. Anyone who seems to, well, you don't really know what is going on inside someone else's head. And anyone who says they do, is a liar. That also takes a lot of pressure off. We aren't going to be perfect. All that matters is that we focus on the gifts we have (because we all have them, and we should get to know them) to make our lives and the lives of others as amazing as possible.
I also like that this book doesn't claim that if you just give everything over to God he will make you wealthy, or always happy, or anything like that. God doesn't promise those things, and Swope doesn't either. The simple message is that if we take the time to know ourselves and know God, we will have the confidence to tackle our passions, which is all we are meant to do in the first place.
My favorite quote from the book,something I struggle with, page 138: "Isn't it easy to completely neglect our dreams and desires to meet the needs of everyone around us and call it self-sacrifice? It sounds godly, but in doing so we risk shutting down a place in our soul where God's dreams and gifts are waiting to be revealed. It's not self-seeking but God-seeking to intentionally get to know and become the woman God created you to be."
September 1, 2011
Have you ever read a book where you felt like the author must have crawled inside your mind, and read your thoughts? That's exactly the feeling that I had as I read this book. How does she know me so well? I could relate to so many of the things that Renee shared and felt. We all know the feelings of fear and worry that stem from self-doubt, but we know through our relationship with Christ, that we don't have to live in that place. When we are in Christ, we no longer have to live in bondage.
Renee has taken her life's circumstances and her "mess" and used it to bring glory to God through her ministry. She writes from a place of wisdom, insight, and biblical knowledge -- she shows that she is living proof that God can take our ashes and turn it into something beautiful. As a woman with a "mess" of my own, I find it very encouraging to know that I am not alone in my struggles. I don't have to stay down when I fail, I can rise up again (Proverbs 24:16). " . . . being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:6) I am a work in progress, and praise the Lord . . . He's not finished with me yet!
Through her inspiring book, Renee gives us practical answers and solutions to what we can do to overcome our fears and doubts. She also reminds us that we won't have a confident heart just because it's possible, we will have to take action. She tells us that we have to get intentional about turning to God's thoughts toward us, every day. I especially appreciate how at the end of each chapter she has a scripture-based prayer that leads us to "Praying God's Promises." She also invites us to go deeper by providing helpful reflection and study questions.
By stepping out of the shadow of our doubts and living in God's truth and His promises, we can live with A Confident Heart. I highly recommend this book, and I thank Renee for being so honest and transparent in sharing her story with us.
**Thank you to Revell for providing me with a copy to review in exchange for my honest opinion.**
**Available August 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.**
Renee has taken her life's circumstances and her "mess" and used it to bring glory to God through her ministry. She writes from a place of wisdom, insight, and biblical knowledge -- she shows that she is living proof that God can take our ashes and turn it into something beautiful. As a woman with a "mess" of my own, I find it very encouraging to know that I am not alone in my struggles. I don't have to stay down when I fail, I can rise up again (Proverbs 24:16). " . . . being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:6) I am a work in progress, and praise the Lord . . . He's not finished with me yet!
Through her inspiring book, Renee gives us practical answers and solutions to what we can do to overcome our fears and doubts. She also reminds us that we won't have a confident heart just because it's possible, we will have to take action. She tells us that we have to get intentional about turning to God's thoughts toward us, every day. I especially appreciate how at the end of each chapter she has a scripture-based prayer that leads us to "Praying God's Promises." She also invites us to go deeper by providing helpful reflection and study questions.
By stepping out of the shadow of our doubts and living in God's truth and His promises, we can live with A Confident Heart. I highly recommend this book, and I thank Renee for being so honest and transparent in sharing her story with us.
**Thank you to Revell for providing me with a copy to review in exchange for my honest opinion.**
**Available August 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.**
December 28, 2013
I read A Confident Heart as part of the Proverbs 31 Ministry Online Bible Study and am so glad that I did!
I admit, I went into this with the "knowledge" that I wouldn't be more confident in my walk with God or as a woman.
Thankfully, I was wrong.
Renee offers up testimony on the times in her life - past and present - where she wasn't feeling very confident. From near panic attacks to plain old fear, Renee has learned how to not only listen for God's voice, but to apply Scripture to those times when she needs confidence most.
I found her journey real, the Scripture easy to remember, the questions not always easy to answer, but worth answering in order to move from timidity to confidence.
There are Scripture based prayers at the end of each chapter along with about seven questions that at times can feel like a hundred when you're being brutally honest with not only yourself, but God as well.
I highly recommend reading this as part of a bible study. It can definitely be read alone, but I promise you that you are going to want encouragement from your sisters in Christ - especially when the chapters get a little too hard to get through on your own. Don't give up, though. Confidence is right around the corner and it's such a beautiful thing!
I suggest the following materials: Your Bible {NIV or NLT is recommended, but I think any could be used}, highlighters, index cards, pens//pencils, a prayer journal, and a notebook. They will all come in handy.
This is not a one shot deal by any means; I plan on revisiting this book anytime I feel my confidence wane. I also purchased the Confident Heart Devotional which I will be putting to good use in the new year!
I admit, I went into this with the "knowledge" that I wouldn't be more confident in my walk with God or as a woman.
Thankfully, I was wrong.
Renee offers up testimony on the times in her life - past and present - where she wasn't feeling very confident. From near panic attacks to plain old fear, Renee has learned how to not only listen for God's voice, but to apply Scripture to those times when she needs confidence most.
I found her journey real, the Scripture easy to remember, the questions not always easy to answer, but worth answering in order to move from timidity to confidence.
There are Scripture based prayers at the end of each chapter along with about seven questions that at times can feel like a hundred when you're being brutally honest with not only yourself, but God as well.
I highly recommend reading this as part of a bible study. It can definitely be read alone, but I promise you that you are going to want encouragement from your sisters in Christ - especially when the chapters get a little too hard to get through on your own. Don't give up, though. Confidence is right around the corner and it's such a beautiful thing!
I suggest the following materials: Your Bible {NIV or NLT is recommended, but I think any could be used}, highlighters, index cards, pens//pencils, a prayer journal, and a notebook. They will all come in handy.
This is not a one shot deal by any means; I plan on revisiting this book anytime I feel my confidence wane. I also purchased the Confident Heart Devotional which I will be putting to good use in the new year!
September 23, 2012
Very uplifting & encouraging read. Swope has filled it with scripture-based ideas and also with her own personal experiences. I can definitely see myself reading this again for those times that I need some encouragement and reminders of God's grace.
August 30, 2011
My Review:
Because Renee Swope is so transparent and personal about her own struggles, I found her book, A Confident Heart, to be one of the best books on retraining your mind to listen to God’s words and thoughts about your life despite your past.
Renee sets out her premises based on God’s Word. She systematically calls out the different messages we listen to in our minds, and works you through God’s Word to change you from the inside out. Is it a step-by-step formula? No, but it is a daily renewing of your mind.
She covers such topics as:
Discovering the shadow of our doubts
Realizing we don’t have to be perfect because God’s love is
God’s promises of hope despite the pain of our pasts
Living beyond the shadow of our doubts
What to do when doubt whispers:
“I’m not good enough”
“I’m such a failure”
“I don’t have anything special to offer”
“I can’t stop worrying”
“I can’t follow God consistently”
Becoming the woman I want to be
Living in the security of God’s promises
Renee delves into each topic specifically, personally, and in-depth, giving you hope of coming out on the other side of these struggles. She completes each chapter with a Scripturally-based prayer and a few reflection and discussion questions, the latter making you did into your thought life and bringing it to the light of God’s Word.
Her story format makes it easy to relate to, is used to encourage you, and lets you see you are not alone in this struggle. She shows where she and the other women were and how God changed them through His strength and Word. You will easily see yourself in many of the stories.
You are encouraged to take time to read God’s Word, pray and listen, so that you can learn to discern God’s voice in your heart and life. The voice of the Good Shepherd, who has plans to give you a future and a hope.
I think the book would be of greatest value if you study with at least one other person, as accountability to another friend (or group of ladies) will make your journey more transparent. Definitely purchase Renee’s book, as it will challenge you to choose between the voices you hear. It’s one of those “need to have” books. It’s a book I will definitely be working through!
This book was provided by Donna Hausler, Publicity Assistant, at Baker Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensations was exchanged.
Because Renee Swope is so transparent and personal about her own struggles, I found her book, A Confident Heart, to be one of the best books on retraining your mind to listen to God’s words and thoughts about your life despite your past.
Renee sets out her premises based on God’s Word. She systematically calls out the different messages we listen to in our minds, and works you through God’s Word to change you from the inside out. Is it a step-by-step formula? No, but it is a daily renewing of your mind.
She covers such topics as:
Discovering the shadow of our doubts
Realizing we don’t have to be perfect because God’s love is
God’s promises of hope despite the pain of our pasts
Living beyond the shadow of our doubts
What to do when doubt whispers:
“I’m not good enough”
“I’m such a failure”
“I don’t have anything special to offer”
“I can’t stop worrying”
“I can’t follow God consistently”
Becoming the woman I want to be
Living in the security of God’s promises
Renee delves into each topic specifically, personally, and in-depth, giving you hope of coming out on the other side of these struggles. She completes each chapter with a Scripturally-based prayer and a few reflection and discussion questions, the latter making you did into your thought life and bringing it to the light of God’s Word.
Her story format makes it easy to relate to, is used to encourage you, and lets you see you are not alone in this struggle. She shows where she and the other women were and how God changed them through His strength and Word. You will easily see yourself in many of the stories.
You are encouraged to take time to read God’s Word, pray and listen, so that you can learn to discern God’s voice in your heart and life. The voice of the Good Shepherd, who has plans to give you a future and a hope.
I think the book would be of greatest value if you study with at least one other person, as accountability to another friend (or group of ladies) will make your journey more transparent. Definitely purchase Renee’s book, as it will challenge you to choose between the voices you hear. It’s one of those “need to have” books. It’s a book I will definitely be working through!
This book was provided by Donna Hausler, Publicity Assistant, at Baker Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensations was exchanged.
September 10, 2015
I started reading this with a group of ladies at my church. After reading, I feel that this book is one that I will probably read every day. There is so much truth that women can relate to and so many stories and scriptures to support the truths listed. There are discussion questions after each chapter to help you think through the lesson and learn more about yourself and relationship with God. This book impacted me greatly and I would recommend it to anyone.
July 25, 2013
I read this book with my girlfriends, who I am in a Bible study with. We took it chapter by chapter. We would read a chapter or two during the week. When we would meet up it was to discuss the questions at the end of those chapter/s. It was a long an emotional journey for me to get through the book. Because of that, I am glad I had my close friends there with me. I admit sometimes it wasn't easy to answer some of the questions or do the exercises. But having my friends go through it with me helped a lot.
Renee gets real with her readers. I always appreciate that when religion is involved. It makes you feel a sense of normalcy to your life when you know that you aren't alone in your thoughts. Instead of being told I was wrong for asking questions or feeling a certain way, I felt peace knowing I wasn't the only one. I think that is important. I also know finding it's important to seek for answers through more than just yourself. Renee teaches you to seek God's plan and not your own. Hidden in the plan is a blossoming confident heart. It is worth the journey to feel some peace.
I mentioned discussion questions and exercises above. I am a the type of person who really gets into the honesty in those. One question could have an answer 3 paragraphs long. I encourage you to participate in them with pencil an paper, if you do this study. I was not into journaling when i began this study. But I wanted to get the most out of it. Journaling started to become a desire. At times, it was a release of emotions that had sat unattended for years. Other times I would end up seeing something in my past as a sign that he was there but never realized it. At the end of the journey, I can look back and see the transition that took place. I know I will still struggle with things when life gets hard. It's normal and part of being human. My response to those moments and how I equip myself is what matters.
I encourage women to take part in this study and to do it with a friend or group. Discuss these questions with each other. Lean on one another. Your relationship with Him, yourself, and other relationships will change. Hidden underneath all of us is a confident and beautiful person waiting to be let out. I thank Renee and my girls for helping me find me.
Renee gets real with her readers. I always appreciate that when religion is involved. It makes you feel a sense of normalcy to your life when you know that you aren't alone in your thoughts. Instead of being told I was wrong for asking questions or feeling a certain way, I felt peace knowing I wasn't the only one. I think that is important. I also know finding it's important to seek for answers through more than just yourself. Renee teaches you to seek God's plan and not your own. Hidden in the plan is a blossoming confident heart. It is worth the journey to feel some peace.
I mentioned discussion questions and exercises above. I am a the type of person who really gets into the honesty in those. One question could have an answer 3 paragraphs long. I encourage you to participate in them with pencil an paper, if you do this study. I was not into journaling when i began this study. But I wanted to get the most out of it. Journaling started to become a desire. At times, it was a release of emotions that had sat unattended for years. Other times I would end up seeing something in my past as a sign that he was there but never realized it. At the end of the journey, I can look back and see the transition that took place. I know I will still struggle with things when life gets hard. It's normal and part of being human. My response to those moments and how I equip myself is what matters.
I encourage women to take part in this study and to do it with a friend or group. Discuss these questions with each other. Lean on one another. Your relationship with Him, yourself, and other relationships will change. Hidden underneath all of us is a confident and beautiful person waiting to be let out. I thank Renee and my girls for helping me find me.
September 4, 2011
A Confident Heart is a book I really need to read! Sometimes I have so much trouble with self doubts, and I seem to be going through them now. Renee reminded me of so many things, things I’ve heard before but I needed to hear again.
Doubt robs us of things in our physical and spiritual life. I think of several things I’ve wanted to venture out and do, but I didn’t because I didn’t think I could, or didn’t thing I was worthy. One of the worse doubts for me is that some things in my life will never change, and because of those things, my life is never going to get better. But reading what the author says about “Its Not Suppose to Be This Way” early in the book, I was encouraged with the scripture and the promises she brought out from God’s Word that we can claim.
This is just the beginning of what Renee will teach you in this wonderful book on doubting yourself. Throughout the book, she talks about many things in our lives that make us self-doubting ladies. She steps on my toes many times, that is for sure. But she also goes to the scripture and shows us how we can fill those empty spaces in our hearts, how we can run toward God with our self doubts, and how we can break free from our lives as they are now and get to know the real us! And one thing that stood out more than anything I read is that God is not limited by my limitations. God can do anything He wants, anyway He wants, at any time he wants.
This is a book I recommend to every lady out there because I believe we all, at some time or another go through doubts in our lives. You won’t be sorry you read this book! I will be keeping my copy to refer to time and time again.
I was provided a copy of this book from Donna at Revell to read and review. I was not required or expected to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
Doubt robs us of things in our physical and spiritual life. I think of several things I’ve wanted to venture out and do, but I didn’t because I didn’t think I could, or didn’t thing I was worthy. One of the worse doubts for me is that some things in my life will never change, and because of those things, my life is never going to get better. But reading what the author says about “Its Not Suppose to Be This Way” early in the book, I was encouraged with the scripture and the promises she brought out from God’s Word that we can claim.
This is just the beginning of what Renee will teach you in this wonderful book on doubting yourself. Throughout the book, she talks about many things in our lives that make us self-doubting ladies. She steps on my toes many times, that is for sure. But she also goes to the scripture and shows us how we can fill those empty spaces in our hearts, how we can run toward God with our self doubts, and how we can break free from our lives as they are now and get to know the real us! And one thing that stood out more than anything I read is that God is not limited by my limitations. God can do anything He wants, anyway He wants, at any time he wants.
This is a book I recommend to every lady out there because I believe we all, at some time or another go through doubts in our lives. You won’t be sorry you read this book! I will be keeping my copy to refer to time and time again.
I was provided a copy of this book from Donna at Revell to read and review. I was not required or expected to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
February 22, 2017
I finished reading this book last week. I just wanted to share a review for it. I believe women struggle with confidence probably more than men or maybe just in a different way than they do. Women are definitely created as emotional beings. This book is an amazing read and all women should read it. It has helped me so much, it is simple to read and the author is an amazing woman who speaks truth sharing her own struggles. I suggest you go buy it and read it as soon as possible. God bless you all.
September 14, 2019
This was such a breath of fresh air and encouragement for me! Highly recommended for any Christian woman!
May 24, 2017
This is a book written for women. It walks you through how to stop doubt in your life. Very easy reading and very helpful. There is a companion devotional that I am loving. I give it four stars. I recommend for ages 14 and up.
January 8, 2019
I would highly recommend this book! It’s full of helpful verses + truths for when you are feeling insecure, unseen, etc.
The end of chapter prayers and questions are super helpful to unpack what was said in the chapter and to help you process your thoughts and feelings!
The end of chapter prayers and questions are super helpful to unpack what was said in the chapter and to help you process your thoughts and feelings!
January 23, 2014
Good book
a really good book, really spoke to me in many different ways as a person who allows fear to overtake me from time to time. highly recommend this book to all
a really good book, really spoke to me in many different ways as a person who allows fear to overtake me from time to time. highly recommend this book to all
July 25, 2019
Excellent book for anyone that ever doubts themselves or struggles with guilt and low self-esteem. Directs our eyes and hearts back to our creator to give us true self-worth, confidence and peace.
May 29, 2018
Took me a while to read it - not because it wasn't good but I got distracted (clearly lol). I ready 90% of it over a year ago and for some reason left that 10% until now. But I'm definitely going to re-read it and re-answer some of the discussion questions at the end of each chapter once I'm in the right spiritual space.
February 19, 2025
I loved this book so much, and even though it’s bright orange, it deserves every bit of the 5 stars. It’s just what my heart needed- to be reminded of how God sees me and that he is enough for me and I don’t have to be perfect. I expect far more from myself than God does. I underlined, hearted, and put stars all over this book. I just finished it and I’m going to start it again.
March 8, 2018
very well written and thought out book on insecurity and doubt. The author shares her own struggles, she explores learning to be confident in the Lord and building a base on the scriptures.
March 9, 2017
Changed my heart completelyKings to my heart completely change to my heart completely things to my heart completely King's to my heart completely
Going into this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realize that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread reread going into this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realize that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread going into this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realized that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread reread going into this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realized that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread going in to this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realize that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread reread. Period this this book is life changing it opens your eyes to the lies that you have been believing for most of your lives if not all of them this book is life-changing it opens your eyes to the lies that you have been believing for most of your lives if not all of them this book is life changing it opened your eyes to the lies that you have been believing for most of your lives if not all of them this book is life-changing it opened your eyes to the lies that you have been believing for most of your lives if not all of them this book is life changing it opens your eyes to the lies that you have been bleeding for most of your lives if not all of them I encourage you to check out this book I encourage you to check out those book I encouraged you to check out this book encourage you to check out this book encourage you to check out those book by Renee Swope
Going into this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realize that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread reread going into this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realize that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread going into this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realized that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread reread going into this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realized that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread going in to this book I didn't quite know what to expect however I quickly realize that I was going to need to reread and reread and reread reread. Period this this book is life changing it opens your eyes to the lies that you have been believing for most of your lives if not all of them this book is life-changing it opens your eyes to the lies that you have been believing for most of your lives if not all of them this book is life changing it opened your eyes to the lies that you have been believing for most of your lives if not all of them this book is life-changing it opened your eyes to the lies that you have been believing for most of your lives if not all of them this book is life changing it opens your eyes to the lies that you have been bleeding for most of your lives if not all of them I encourage you to check out this book I encourage you to check out those book I encouraged you to check out this book encourage you to check out this book encourage you to check out those book by Renee Swope
August 23, 2011
Title: A CONFIDENT HEART
Author: Renee Swope
Publisher: Revell
August 2011
ISBN: 978-1-8007-1960-9
Genre: Inspirational/nonfiction/women’s issues
Step out of the shadows of self-doubt to live with a confident heart.
We all have times when we feel like we’re not good enough, smart enough, or valuable enough. When we’re overlooked for things, passed by, or unacknowledged. Renee Swope has been there. Even with a great family, a successful career, and a thriving ministry, she still struggled with self-doubt.
A CONFIDENT HEART shows us from God’s Word how we can find the security we need and the confidence we long for.
Inside the pages of this book you’ll find:
. Exchange fear-filled thinking with faith-filled believing
. Fail forward when life or sin sets you back
. Embrace the purposes, passion, and personality God blessed you with
. See beyond who you are to who you are becoming in Christ
Each chapter starts with Scripture, and concludes with a Scripture-based prayer. Also included are Bible study questions (you’ll want to keep a notebook and pencil close by as you read this book) and there is a chart with thirty-one promises that will help replace our most common self-doubts.
A CONFIDENT HEART appeared in my to-read list at just the right time. There are several things I’m struggling with lack of confidence in, hurt over being over-looked and unappreciated, so I really could relate to some of the things in the book.
I read this through for review, and didn’t take the time to study it or work through it for learning purposes. This is a book I will need to go back and pay more attention too. Recommended for you and any woman you know. $13.99. 330 pages.
Author: Renee Swope
Publisher: Revell
August 2011
ISBN: 978-1-8007-1960-9
Genre: Inspirational/nonfiction/women’s issues
Step out of the shadows of self-doubt to live with a confident heart.
We all have times when we feel like we’re not good enough, smart enough, or valuable enough. When we’re overlooked for things, passed by, or unacknowledged. Renee Swope has been there. Even with a great family, a successful career, and a thriving ministry, she still struggled with self-doubt.
A CONFIDENT HEART shows us from God’s Word how we can find the security we need and the confidence we long for.
Inside the pages of this book you’ll find:
. Exchange fear-filled thinking with faith-filled believing
. Fail forward when life or sin sets you back
. Embrace the purposes, passion, and personality God blessed you with
. See beyond who you are to who you are becoming in Christ
Each chapter starts with Scripture, and concludes with a Scripture-based prayer. Also included are Bible study questions (you’ll want to keep a notebook and pencil close by as you read this book) and there is a chart with thirty-one promises that will help replace our most common self-doubts.
A CONFIDENT HEART appeared in my to-read list at just the right time. There are several things I’m struggling with lack of confidence in, hurt over being over-looked and unappreciated, so I really could relate to some of the things in the book.
I read this through for review, and didn’t take the time to study it or work through it for learning purposes. This is a book I will need to go back and pay more attention too. Recommended for you and any woman you know. $13.99. 330 pages.
September 4, 2011
I first heard about Ms Swope's book when a friend sent me a link for her email series called the doubt diet. My curiosity was peeked and I did a little research. The next day an email appeared in my inbox offering the chance to review the book. I knew then God definitely wanted me to read it.
Doubt is a constant in my life and I knew what Ms Swope would have to say would pierce my heart. Fear is definitely how I have lived my life. Mrs Swope explores many of the areas where fear is prevalent for women. Her approach is one of friendship in many ways. While reading the book it was as if I had told her how I felt and she offered her words as a friend would. It is not an easy book to read if you struggle with doubt and fear because the lies you have believed for so long seem to scream at you as you read. The authors reminders of how much God loves you and the life you can have are full of hope and promise.
If you struggle with doubt and fear A Confident Heart is a great book that will encourage your heart. Mrs Swope openly shares her own personal experiences and you will feel a kindredness with her. Her writing is gentle and loving. You see not only her experiences and triumphs on the pages...you see your own too. The questions really help you explore things further in your heart and the chart of promises is a great reminder. I will be recommending this book to friends!
Doubt is a constant in my life and I knew what Ms Swope would have to say would pierce my heart. Fear is definitely how I have lived my life. Mrs Swope explores many of the areas where fear is prevalent for women. Her approach is one of friendship in many ways. While reading the book it was as if I had told her how I felt and she offered her words as a friend would. It is not an easy book to read if you struggle with doubt and fear because the lies you have believed for so long seem to scream at you as you read. The authors reminders of how much God loves you and the life you can have are full of hope and promise.
If you struggle with doubt and fear A Confident Heart is a great book that will encourage your heart. Mrs Swope openly shares her own personal experiences and you will feel a kindredness with her. Her writing is gentle and loving. You see not only her experiences and triumphs on the pages...you see your own too. The questions really help you explore things further in your heart and the chart of promises is a great reminder. I will be recommending this book to friends!
September 3, 2011
This is a book I should have read many years ago. Sadly, it wasn't around back then... but thankfully, Renee Swope has written it now. What a blessing this book will be to all the women who struggle with doubt and self-worth. And that's a lot of us!
Renee share from her heart. Chapter after chapter, she shares stories from her past, her personal experiences that tell us that she's had the same struggles as we have. As I read along, I can't help but see myself in each page. I'm thinking "That's me! She's telling my story!" While I've learned alot since those years long ago, this book is a great reminder for me. We need to be reminded, and often. It's a hard road to get from believing in God... to believing God.
Follow along with Renee as she shares not only from experience, but from scripture as well. Each chapter begins with a Bible verse and ends in a prayer to teach you how to pray God's promises. Following that are questions for discussion and reflection. This is a great Bible study that I highly recommend if you need healing in this area of doubt.
*Revell Books and Baker Publishing Group have provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. ~ Thank you!
Renee share from her heart. Chapter after chapter, she shares stories from her past, her personal experiences that tell us that she's had the same struggles as we have. As I read along, I can't help but see myself in each page. I'm thinking "That's me! She's telling my story!" While I've learned alot since those years long ago, this book is a great reminder for me. We need to be reminded, and often. It's a hard road to get from believing in God... to believing God.
Follow along with Renee as she shares not only from experience, but from scripture as well. Each chapter begins with a Bible verse and ends in a prayer to teach you how to pray God's promises. Following that are questions for discussion and reflection. This is a great Bible study that I highly recommend if you need healing in this area of doubt.
*Revell Books and Baker Publishing Group have provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. ~ Thank you!
November 1, 2014
It's not that I haven't heard it all before, but it sure was helpful to hear it again in such a transparent and honest way from the author. After reading the first chapter I realized that this would be a very important book for me so I actually journaled through each question at the end of the each chapter. I was sorry that my journey ended while reading the last chapter. This book was like what I imagine sitting in a psychologist's office would be... combined with good Biblical counsel. I will be reading this book and going over my notes in years to come. This will be a go-to book when I need reminding that my confidence is in the Lord. The grande finale of the book is the chapter "When doubt asks, Is God enough?" This cut through my self pity and helped me realize how very much I doubt God's ability to be enough in spite of my failures and all the times I mantra that I am not enough. God is enough. His grace is bigger. Thank you Renee for reminding me of this and I appreciated your prayers from me at the end of each chapter as well. I know they were for me because I needed them so desperately!
August 30, 2011
Renee Swope has written a book that is sure to make a difference for anyone who picks it up to read.
Have you ever struggled with feeling inadequate, fearful, and even unsure of who you really are or how you fit in as a unique part of God's plan? If we were all brutally honest most of us would say yes. There are times that fear has paralyzed us - fear of not being good enough, not being the right person for the job, fear of rejection.
In this book Renee invites you to peel back the layers and discover what is holding you back from true confidence. This confidence is in Christ and is the kind that is unshakable and life changing.
Truly a book that will cause a person to look deep into themselves. Learn to embrace your unique talents and gifts - being confident that God has a purpose for you.
Absolutely wonderful and highly recommended. I will be sharing this with ladies at my church.
Thanks you Revell for this review copy.
Have you ever struggled with feeling inadequate, fearful, and even unsure of who you really are or how you fit in as a unique part of God's plan? If we were all brutally honest most of us would say yes. There are times that fear has paralyzed us - fear of not being good enough, not being the right person for the job, fear of rejection.
In this book Renee invites you to peel back the layers and discover what is holding you back from true confidence. This confidence is in Christ and is the kind that is unshakable and life changing.
Truly a book that will cause a person to look deep into themselves. Learn to embrace your unique talents and gifts - being confident that God has a purpose for you.
Absolutely wonderful and highly recommended. I will be sharing this with ladies at my church.
Thanks you Revell for this review copy.
February 24, 2013
I feel like this book was written for me. In every Chapter of the book l related to what Renee was talking about. I have lived in fear, doubting God and His promises, never truly grasping and holding onto the promises that He has for me. I love the way she breaks down the story of the Samaritan Woman, I see myself as that woman going to the well in that hot scorching afternoon carrying my broken water pot hoping to fill it up with water that would not quench my thirst. Just like the Samaritan woman, for a long time l longed to be loved and pursued for who l was, not for what l could do but simply for being me. I was never secure and confidant in who l was in God until that day l broke down and He met me at the lowest point of my life and there gave me living water and replaced my broken water pot with one that does not leak. You can read my book review here; http://www.womensetapart.com/review-a...
August 6, 2011
A CONFIDENT HEART: HOW TO STOP DOUBTING YOURSELF & LIVE IN THE SECURITY OF GOD'S PROMISES by Renee Swope is an interesting inspirational women.It will provide you with resources to exchange fear-filled thinking with faith-filled thinking,help embrace God's purpose with passion,personality,and help you look beyond who you are with who Christ wants you to be,and has scripture prayers along with Bible study questions that will replace your most common self doubts.This is a captivating story that will give insights and solutions to your doubts and fears that you are faced with everyday.A great resource and educational book that will give you "A Confident Heart".This book was received for the purpose of review from the publisher. Details can be found at Revell,a division of Baker Publishing Group and My Book Addiction Reviews.
March 9, 2014
I read this book at the perfect time in my life. I am honestly not sure how I would rate it if I had read it too soon. I have always struggled a lot with my confidence my entire life. I am now in my early 40s and have been a Christian for 15 years. I have struggled with being a mother, a wife, a friend, and God's servant. It has been easy for me to overcome and gain confidence in those areas, except being God's servant. I have felt called into ministry but keep running from it out of fear and lack of confidence. Thank you Renee for being so honest. Many of your examples were like reading stories of my life. Before reading this book, I was ready to chase my dreams but fear paralyzed me. After reading this book, I feel encouraged and empowered and truly believe that God can use me for anything. I have already begun the first steps toward where God is calling me too.
May 16, 2013
I can relate to so many thoughts and feelings that Renee shared about her own in the book, especially Chapter 3. I once struggled like her: working extremely hard driven by a sense of insecurity, yet never feeling satisfied no matter how much I achieved, without realizing the unconditional love and security God has for me. Only God can give true confidence.
Like a friend and mentor sitting down with you and chatting over a cup of coffee , her approachable and open style of sharing her own experiences, reflections and wisdom touched me deeply.
I especially like the prayers that wrap up the whole chapter at the end of each of it. I sometimes rewrite them in my own words and pray them over and over again until they are from me. They make me feel so enlightened and empowered.
Like a friend and mentor sitting down with you and chatting over a cup of coffee , her approachable and open style of sharing her own experiences, reflections and wisdom touched me deeply.
I especially like the prayers that wrap up the whole chapter at the end of each of it. I sometimes rewrite them in my own words and pray them over and over again until they are from me. They make me feel so enlightened and empowered.
November 24, 2013
I found this book to be an extremely thoughtful devotional and bible study. Renee Swope uses personal experiences as well as the experiences of others who have had confidence and self-esteem problems, and how faith, prayer and scriptures helped to overcome this very real and very prominent problem with women today.
Swope also includes scriptural references and beautifully worded prayers at the end of each chapter that add to the information and advice contained within.
This book is designed to be a sixty-day study and would be perfect for devotional time or as a bible study. I highly recommend this novel as one to be considered as a new year approaches.
Swope also includes scriptural references and beautifully worded prayers at the end of each chapter that add to the information and advice contained within.
This book is designed to be a sixty-day study and would be perfect for devotional time or as a bible study. I highly recommend this novel as one to be considered as a new year approaches.
June 9, 2014
This book really was life changing. I read it as part of a group study, but was not sure it would be really helpful to me since I didn't have an issue with self confidence. Through this book, though, I realized I had little confidence in God, which led to worry, fear, and a growing gulf between the Father and me. I very highly recommend this book to women everywhere, both those with obviously low confidence and those, like me, that spent all their energy relying on themselves instead of on Jesus.
August 20, 2014
I did this book as a study with a few close friends. We had a wonderful time discussing this book and taking this journey together. This is a wonderful book that hits deep but is still practical. There is a perfect balance of scripture, personal stories, and practical to-dos that will help you on your journey to trusting Christ. Sometimes it is scary how accurate Renee is, you think she must be inside your brain somehow! Renee did a wonderful job in writing this book and I would highly recommend it!
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