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JESUS: A Scandalously Devoted, Conspicuously Uncool, Super-Transparent Homage to Who Our Savior Is and How Much He Loves Us Devotional
Valley or mountain top, do you ever wonder what “walking with Jesus” actually means in everyday life? Unfortunately, thinkers like A.W. Tozer are right when saying, "For millions of Christians, God is no more real than He is to non-Christians. They go through life trying to love an ideal and be loyal to a mere principle.” The good news for us is that Jesus is not a proposition to be studied, He’s a divine Person with whom we get to engage! Instead of simply obtaining more spiritual information about our Savior, sometimes we just need to remember what a miracle it is to be invited to get to know Him personally .
In her much-anticipated follow-up to her bestselling devotional LIFE , and in her beloved, humorous, and relatable voice, Bible teacher and author Lisa Harper helps you do just engage with JESUS personally. As you open each page, prepare yourself for a devotional journey of unapologetically gawking at, reveling in, walking with, and worshipping our incredible Savior—and laughing a lot along the way. Because there’s nothing like real relationship with Him in the ups and downs of life!
In her much-anticipated follow-up to her bestselling devotional LIFE , and in her beloved, humorous, and relatable voice, Bible teacher and author Lisa Harper helps you do just engage with JESUS personally. As you open each page, prepare yourself for a devotional journey of unapologetically gawking at, reveling in, walking with, and worshipping our incredible Savior—and laughing a lot along the way. Because there’s nothing like real relationship with Him in the ups and downs of life!
224 pages, Hardcover
Published September 19, 2023
106 people are currently reading
1578 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Harper
106 books340 followersLisa Harper is a hilarious storyteller and theological scholar―a gifted communicator whose writing and speaking overflows with colorful, pop-culture references that connect the dots between the Bible era and modern life. “Her God-given ability to not merely teach the Word but package it in a way that stirs the heart and calls to action is incomparable” says Priscilla Shirer. For six years Lisa served as the director of Focus on the Family's national women's ministry where she created the popular Renewing the Heart conferences. The next six years found her serving on the local level as the women's ministry director at a large church in Nashville. As the author of eleven books, and a Masters of Theological Studies with honors from Covenant Seminary, she is now a sought-after Bible teacher and speaker. Lisa was on the Women of Faith national arena tour and speaks at many other large events as well as at hundreds of churches all over the world. Lisa describes her greatest accomplishment to date as getting to be Missy’s mama.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 1, 2025
Funny, theologically and culturally rich, and filled with great insights into the character and impact of Jesus on our daily lives.
Only reason it’s not 5 stars is because I’m personally not a fan of formatting the book into a 60-day read. I realize a lot of people enjoy that approach.
Only reason it’s not 5 stars is because I’m personally not a fan of formatting the book into a 60-day read. I realize a lot of people enjoy that approach.
September 13, 2023
With her follow-up to the bestselling devotional "LIFE," acclaimed Bible teacher and author Lisa Harper practically pulls us into a deeper relationship with Jesus with "JESUS: A Scandalously Devoted, Conspicuously Uncool, Super-Transparent Homage to Who Our Savior Is and How Much He Loves Us Devotional."
For the record, I'm calling it "JESUS."
For those seeking a more traditional devotional experience, look elsewhere. "JESUS" is immensely personal, unapologetically relational, frequently funny, and fiercely relatable. Harper opts for full-on engagement with "Jesus" rather than simply aiming this devotional at yet another round of Biblical exegesis (though exegesis is certainly important).
If you know Harper, and you likely do, then you know what to expect from "JESUS" and that's what she serves up with heartfelt storytelling, lots of laughs, personal experiences, and so much more. Harper lets us know early on that her daughter Missy, whom she adopted from Haiti, is going to feature often throughout "JESUS" and this is very much the case whether we're talking about childlike faith or the realities of racism.
Harper, not to be confused with the more progressive Christian voice Lisa Sharon Harper, is a long-time popular Bible teacher with numerous appearances in-person, on television, and across radio platforms. With a 30+ year history in vocational ministry, Harper has written twenty books and Bible study curriculums, however, these days would likely tell you that her greatest accomplishment is being a mama to Missy on a hilly farmette south of Nashville, Tennessee.
"JESUS" is a 60-day devotional with each devotional introduced via biblical passage followed by personal testimonials of varying lengths and deeper personal insights. As is practically necessary for devotionals, Harper includes vital points of reflection with each devotion designed to turn the reader inward and to turn the reader toward a more engaged relationship with Jesus.
While some may struggle at times Harper's more casual approach with "JESUS," rest assured that she's remarkably serious when it comes to encouraging us to reflect upon who Jesus is and how much He loves us.
For fans of Lisa Harper, "JESUS" is a must-have. For those new to Harper, it's a beautiful way to be introduced to her ministry and her writings.
For the record, I'm calling it "JESUS."
For those seeking a more traditional devotional experience, look elsewhere. "JESUS" is immensely personal, unapologetically relational, frequently funny, and fiercely relatable. Harper opts for full-on engagement with "Jesus" rather than simply aiming this devotional at yet another round of Biblical exegesis (though exegesis is certainly important).
If you know Harper, and you likely do, then you know what to expect from "JESUS" and that's what she serves up with heartfelt storytelling, lots of laughs, personal experiences, and so much more. Harper lets us know early on that her daughter Missy, whom she adopted from Haiti, is going to feature often throughout "JESUS" and this is very much the case whether we're talking about childlike faith or the realities of racism.
Harper, not to be confused with the more progressive Christian voice Lisa Sharon Harper, is a long-time popular Bible teacher with numerous appearances in-person, on television, and across radio platforms. With a 30+ year history in vocational ministry, Harper has written twenty books and Bible study curriculums, however, these days would likely tell you that her greatest accomplishment is being a mama to Missy on a hilly farmette south of Nashville, Tennessee.
"JESUS" is a 60-day devotional with each devotional introduced via biblical passage followed by personal testimonials of varying lengths and deeper personal insights. As is practically necessary for devotionals, Harper includes vital points of reflection with each devotion designed to turn the reader inward and to turn the reader toward a more engaged relationship with Jesus.
While some may struggle at times Harper's more casual approach with "JESUS," rest assured that she's remarkably serious when it comes to encouraging us to reflect upon who Jesus is and how much He loves us.
For fans of Lisa Harper, "JESUS" is a must-have. For those new to Harper, it's a beautiful way to be introduced to her ministry and her writings.
July 7, 2023
"JESUS: A Scandalously Devoted, Conspicuously Uncool, Super-Transparent Homage to Who Our Savior Is and How Much He Loves Us Devotional" by Lisa Harper is a book that aims to bring readers closer to Jesus and help them understand what it means to walk with Him in everyday life. Harper, a Bible teacher and author, offers a relatable and humorous approach to exploring the personal relationship with Jesus.
The book acknowledges a common struggle among Christians, as expressed by A.W. Tozer, where God can sometimes feel distant and more like an abstract concept rather than a living reality. Harper challenges this notion by emphasizing that Jesus is not just an idea to be studied, but a divine person with whom we can engage and develop a deep relationship.
The devotional takes readers on a journey of encountering Jesus personally. Through each page, Harper encourages readers to marvel at His greatness, rejoice in His love, and walk alongside Him through the ups and downs of life. The author's humor adds a light-hearted touch to the exploration, making the experience engaging and enjoyable.
One of the strengths of this book is Harper's ability to combine deep spiritual insights with relatable anecdotes and stories. She weaves together personal experiences and biblical teachings, creating a meaningful and accessible devotional that resonates with readers. The emphasis on the miracle of being invited to know Jesus personally serves as a reminder of the profound privilege and joy it is to have a relationship with Him.
While the title may suggest a lighthearted approach, the book doesn't shy away from the profound aspects of faith and the transformative power of encountering Jesus. Harper's writing strikes a balance between sincerity and humor, making the content relatable and engaging for readers of all backgrounds.
"JESUS" is a devotional that invites readers to deepen their understanding of and connection with Jesus. It is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to experience a real and vibrant relationship with the Savior. Lisa Harper's writing style, filled with humor, authenticity, and biblical wisdom, makes this book an enjoyable and enlightening read.
The book acknowledges a common struggle among Christians, as expressed by A.W. Tozer, where God can sometimes feel distant and more like an abstract concept rather than a living reality. Harper challenges this notion by emphasizing that Jesus is not just an idea to be studied, but a divine person with whom we can engage and develop a deep relationship.
The devotional takes readers on a journey of encountering Jesus personally. Through each page, Harper encourages readers to marvel at His greatness, rejoice in His love, and walk alongside Him through the ups and downs of life. The author's humor adds a light-hearted touch to the exploration, making the experience engaging and enjoyable.
One of the strengths of this book is Harper's ability to combine deep spiritual insights with relatable anecdotes and stories. She weaves together personal experiences and biblical teachings, creating a meaningful and accessible devotional that resonates with readers. The emphasis on the miracle of being invited to know Jesus personally serves as a reminder of the profound privilege and joy it is to have a relationship with Him.
While the title may suggest a lighthearted approach, the book doesn't shy away from the profound aspects of faith and the transformative power of encountering Jesus. Harper's writing strikes a balance between sincerity and humor, making the content relatable and engaging for readers of all backgrounds.
"JESUS" is a devotional that invites readers to deepen their understanding of and connection with Jesus. It is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to experience a real and vibrant relationship with the Savior. Lisa Harper's writing style, filled with humor, authenticity, and biblical wisdom, makes this book an enjoyable and enlightening read.
September 2, 2023
I've known of Harper's strong Bible studies and the like for a while but never read any of her books. I'm spending a year in the Gospels so when I saw this one pop up on Net Galley, I thought I'd read it.
Harper is quite the character and wonderful storyteller that makes her very easy to read. She clearly has a deep love for Jesus and does a good job weaving stories of her own life with stories and principles of Jesus. Each of the 60 devotions starts with a biblical passage and then Harper shares reflections on her own life that fits with the 'theme' of the passage. Then she brings Jesus into the picture to share her reflections including references to many well known sources and wise others. Once again, it';s all very readable and gives you a better insight into the person of Jesus.
She concludes each day's reflection with 3 prompts centred around other Bible verses to challenge the reader to explore the points of the devotional a little deeper.
This is good but I was left most days reflecting more on Harper than on Jesus which I'm sure isn't her intention. Now this might be simply because I'm new to Harper's style and person. Don't let my assessment stop you from giving this a go. I suspect fans of Harper's work will enjoy it, just make sure the emphasis when reading/studying it is to discover more about Jesus in order to fall more in love with Him.
I received an early ebook copy of the book from the publisher via Net Galley but this has had no bearing on my review.
Harper is quite the character and wonderful storyteller that makes her very easy to read. She clearly has a deep love for Jesus and does a good job weaving stories of her own life with stories and principles of Jesus. Each of the 60 devotions starts with a biblical passage and then Harper shares reflections on her own life that fits with the 'theme' of the passage. Then she brings Jesus into the picture to share her reflections including references to many well known sources and wise others. Once again, it';s all very readable and gives you a better insight into the person of Jesus.
She concludes each day's reflection with 3 prompts centred around other Bible verses to challenge the reader to explore the points of the devotional a little deeper.
This is good but I was left most days reflecting more on Harper than on Jesus which I'm sure isn't her intention. Now this might be simply because I'm new to Harper's style and person. Don't let my assessment stop you from giving this a go. I suspect fans of Harper's work will enjoy it, just make sure the emphasis when reading/studying it is to discover more about Jesus in order to fall more in love with Him.
I received an early ebook copy of the book from the publisher via Net Galley but this has had no bearing on my review.
August 30, 2023
So thrilled to find that one of my favorite Bible teachers wrote this new devotional. It’s full of the humor we’ve come to know and love, along with of course, God’s word, and questions for study and reflection.
Day 19 and 39 are tying for my favorites:
Day 19 Jesus gives extra rest to the most exhausted
“He can easily tote the weight of our heaviest burdens and His are the safest arms in which to collapse. When’s the last time you exhaled emotionally and put all your weight on Jesus?”
Day 39 Jesus was never in a hurry
“Sometimes it just takes a few minutes to stop and evaluate how fast we’re going, then slowing down to match Jesus’s pace. I don’t know what your goals look like when it comes to slowing down in our lightning-fast world, but my goal is to live the rest of my life—or at least long stretches of it—at 3 mph.”
SOOO good! I love that this devo is releasing in the fall so I can grab copies to gift to my girlfriends and adults making a huge difference in the life of my son with autism.
Day 19 and 39 are tying for my favorites:
Day 19 Jesus gives extra rest to the most exhausted
“He can easily tote the weight of our heaviest burdens and His are the safest arms in which to collapse. When’s the last time you exhaled emotionally and put all your weight on Jesus?”
Day 39 Jesus was never in a hurry
“Sometimes it just takes a few minutes to stop and evaluate how fast we’re going, then slowing down to match Jesus’s pace. I don’t know what your goals look like when it comes to slowing down in our lightning-fast world, but my goal is to live the rest of my life—or at least long stretches of it—at 3 mph.”
SOOO good! I love that this devo is releasing in the fall so I can grab copies to gift to my girlfriends and adults making a huge difference in the life of my son with autism.
August 7, 2023
Having followed Lisa Harper on Instagram for many years, I was excited to discover that she has a new Bible study releasing soon. "Jesus: A Scandalously Devoted, Conspicuously Uncool, Super-Transparent Homage to Who Our Savior Is and How Much He Loves Us" is her newest devotional book. Harper does a fantastic job of making Jesus relatable and approachable, and I loved reading about her relationship with her adopted daughter, Missy. One passage that I found particularly touching was as follows: I still believe the "Yes, Jesus loves me" refrain in our hearts and minds will get loud enough to change the world around us when we better understand, appreciate, and trust the "For the Bible tells me so" part!
This was an easy devotional to read and very enjoyable! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
This was an easy devotional to read and very enjoyable! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
November 20, 2023
I have to say that I love Lisa Harper’s style. She is down to earth and tells it like it is using phrases like “Geez Louise” and words like “despots” on the same page. Her Biblical knowledge and references are spot on as she speaks to the women of today. She has been through hurts and disappointments, helping us make sense of it all while clinging to our amazing Jesus. This book has so many great topics that are meshed with scripture and wrapped in Jesus.
Format-60 Days, each day outlines-
An attribute of Jesus
A descriptive account of a scripture
The scripture reference
A contemporary example
Comparable scripture
I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
Format-60 Days, each day outlines-
An attribute of Jesus
A descriptive account of a scripture
The scripture reference
A contemporary example
Comparable scripture
I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
July 5, 2025
Wisdom, humor, and bible setting/history
This was The sweetest, funniest, most Greek or Latin learning, with Bible history-packed journey through a Jesus devotional I have ever experienced. Ms. Lisa explains her struggles and overwhelming need for the savior and his amazing attributes and how to apply them. At the end of each chapter has 2-3 questions that make you go back to the bible and think about stuff. It's awesome. Must read whether you're new to faith or 50+ Years in.
This was The sweetest, funniest, most Greek or Latin learning, with Bible history-packed journey through a Jesus devotional I have ever experienced. Ms. Lisa explains her struggles and overwhelming need for the savior and his amazing attributes and how to apply them. At the end of each chapter has 2-3 questions that make you go back to the bible and think about stuff. It's awesome. Must read whether you're new to faith or 50+ Years in.
November 6, 2023
I love this devotional by Lisa Harper! Some of the stories I had already heard in a Bible study that I did by her, but I think you will enjoy this book. There are questions and suggestions of things you can do at the end of each devotional. If you need a reminder of Jesus' love for you like I do, this book will help you remember.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance e-copy of this book! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance e-copy of this book! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
September 17, 2024
I know this author is really well known in certain circles, I'd never heard of her before I picked this up. I really liked this, very much. Her humor is great, I really loved her personal stories/parables and how she wove them into what she was trying to relate and the points she was trying to make. I would definitely pick up another devotional by her. I finished this with my heart more open and lots of joy and I even learned a few things, for me, can't ask more than that.
August 26, 2023
Lisa Harper’s new 60-day devotional, JESUS…, is an incredibly thorough and insightful deep-dive into our Lord and Savior. Each day is filled to the brim with firsthand accounts and beautiful stories from the author’s life, backed up with accompanying scripture and prayer. This will be a 60 day experience that you will want to visit again and again.
December 14, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed JESUS by Lisa Harper. Not your typical devotional, but Lisa is not your typical Bible teacher! Very relatable, filled with humor, sweet "stories", and always pointing the reader to Jesus. Will make a great gift for a friend!! Thank you NetGalley and B & H Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
December 7, 2024
Lisa Harper beautifully weaves her personal story and experiences into this devotional to help highlight biblical truth. This devotional is easy to read, encouraging, and, at times, challenging. It invites you to meditate on who Jesus is and how he loves us. This is a worthwhile read that I highly recommend for those looking for a devotional.
July 7, 2025
Never a wasted minute spent with Lisa!
Lisa's ability to bring God's truth in a loving, practical and contextual way never ceases to amaze and bless me . I'm learning to know and love Jesus *in my heart*, not just my head. I'm a pretty literal thinker, and Lisa's context and insights are exactly what I need.
Lisa's ability to bring God's truth in a loving, practical and contextual way never ceases to amaze and bless me . I'm learning to know and love Jesus *in my heart*, not just my head. I'm a pretty literal thinker, and Lisa's context and insights are exactly what I need.
January 29, 2026
I could hear Lisa's voice while I read! The devotional is written as though she is telling you stories of her life with a connection to a Bible verse or two. This was a great way to start a day on a positive note. Highly recommend if you are interested in 60 days of 5 to 10 minute personal stories with spiritual impact.
April 9, 2024
Wow, just wow!!
Lisa Harper did it again. What an amazing devotional. The way she breaks down our Lord Jesus Christ into such simple understandable examples is just magical! I highly recommend this book.
Lisa Harper did it again. What an amazing devotional. The way she breaks down our Lord Jesus Christ into such simple understandable examples is just magical! I highly recommend this book.
May 30, 2024
Love this devotion! Lisa is down to earth and makes sure you see Jesus in every Scripture. Recommend this to all Christian's new, middle and old hand because there is something for everyone on each page of this book!!!
January 13, 2025
In this book, Lisa Harper brings through facets that characterize the person of Jesus, through scripture passages and simple anecdotes. I found the ‘rubber meets the road’ life application questions at the end of each day’s ‘lesson’ quite useful and profound.
February 23, 2024
Interesting things to think about and some fun encouragements but wouldn’t say it overly challenged me spiritually or theologically.
June 13, 2024
I love Lisa’s storytelling, but I wish it had more scripture connection.
October 16, 2024
Nobody can tell a story like Lisa Harper. You'll fall in love with Jesus all over again in these pages.
January 21, 2025
Lisa Harper is amazingly talented and gifted.
July 23, 2025
My husband and I both enjoyed reading this devotional. Lisa Harper's writing is both engaging and knowledgeable. She'll have you both laughing and crying.
October 20, 2025
really loved this.
February 20, 2026
Amazing devotional with in-depth looks at Scripture through each day as well as warm glimpses into the author's experiences and heart!! Loved each gentle reminder of Jesus's love for us all.
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November 3, 2025I love Lisa Harper’s writing style (it’s exactly as though you are listening to her talk) and her wisdom. This is the second devotional from her I’ve read and I’m sure I’ll be doing rereads of these.
February 22, 2026
This book is awesome I just bought it and it's powerful. Lisa Harper is a writer who'll grasp your heart. You will laugh and cry.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews