Bible Study Review - Habakkuk by Dannah Gresh

ABOUT THE STUDY:

The prophet Habakkuk faced great storms in life. His fears of the future crippled him with doubt and left him questioning God. How is it, then, that he is now a shining example of how the righteous live by faith?

Learn how the storms of life can become opportunities to activate your faith in Habakkuk: Remembering the Faithfulness of God When He Seems Silent. You'll study the book of Habakkuk—which maybe you've never done before!—and discover how remembering is essential to understanding the faithfulness of God. Through daily Scripture, prayer, and meditation, you'll enter the life of this prophet, and:

• Gain freedom to express your fear and frustration to God
• Remember that God is at work—even when He seems silent
• Increase your capacity to practice the art of waiting on God
• Learn how to navigate through the storms of life to live free from fear and full of joy

This six-week study provides daily interactive Bible study and an easy-to-use leader's guide for group participation. Dannah Gresh also hosts a six-session podcast series to kick off each week of study. Find it at dannahgresh.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dannah Gresh is the bestselling author, speaker, and founder of True Girl (formerly Secret Keeper Girl), America's most popular Christian tween event. She has authored over twenty books that have been translated into twelve languages, including And the Bride Wore White and Lies Girls Believe. Considered one of the leading experts on the subject of sexual theology and parenting tweens and teens, her resources have equipped over one million moms and leaders as they seek to raise their girls in confidence and Truth. Over 400,000 have attended her live events. Dannah is a frequent co-host for Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth's Revive Our Hearts as well as a popular guest on programs like Focus on the Family and Family Life. She has appeared on CNN, Fox News, and the TEDx stage. She lives on a hobby farm in State College, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Bob, and over twenty animals.

MY REVIEW:

This is another wonderful study from Moody Publishers There is so much through put into this study and I love that they made it beautiful inside and out with gorgeous illustrations and lots of purple, which in my opinion, is always a good thing.  

Most importantly, this is a very Biblical study with focus on a book of the Bible I wasn't really familiar with. Habakkuk is a prophet that we can very much relate to today as he was living in a broken world (sound familiar?) and wondering where God was in all this. I know right now that a lot of us are wondering what's going on and how our world got so very broken. I love how God reassures us through this amazing book in the Bible.  

This six week study is an in-depth look at Habakkuk and it has been so encouraging to me. Dannah has set this study up so wonderfully and I learned so much! She starts out with description of what we will be learning. She then has 5 meditations where we take a deeper look into the Scripture and answer the questions. I really like that there is enough room to write in your answers! There are charts to fill in occasionally and everything brings us deeper into the Word of God. I absolutely love studies where we fill in things! What is really great is that Dannah provides a podcast at the end of each week where she explains what we have learned. Such a wonderful bonus to this study!

I enjoyed this study so much and it was great doing it on my own, however, it would be great for small groups or women's Bible studies. It's just a great study all the way around! Obviously, I give it 5 stars.

*This Bible study was provided to me by Moody Publishers. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.

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Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - 7 Feasts by Erin Davis

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In her first title in Moody Publishers Bible study line for women, Davis, a speaker, author, and blogger, leads women through an 8-week study on the Seven Feasts outlined in Leviticus 23, from the Passover and the Feast of Firstfruits to the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Booths.
“Leviticus isn’t just a book of rules arbitrarily handed down by a detached authority” says Davis. “They are opportunities to learn how to live, given to us by our patient Teacher. This paradigm shift matters, because it speaks to the heart of God.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR;

A popular speaker, author, and blogger, Erin Davis has addressed women of all ages nationwide and is passionately committed to sharing God's Truth with others. She is the author of many books, including Connected, Beyond Bath Time, and books in the My Name Is Erin series. She also contributes regularly to the True Woman blog. When she’s not writing, you can find Erin chasing down chickens and children on her small farm in the Midwest.

MY REVIEW:

As someone who loves studying the Old Testament, I was very excited about this study. It focuses on the 7 feasts and the book of Leviticus. It has been a wonderful study and there's so much to say about it.

First of all, I love how the author takes us slowly through thie study and Scripture so we get all the nuances and the understanding of everything we are reading. I love studies that don't rush me through everything with the idea of saying I finished a study. I want to know everything about what I'm reading and studying so that I can truly understand and apply it to my life.

The 7 feasts that Erin teaches about are:

Passover: Reminds us of our deliverance from death.
Feast of Unleavened Bread: Reminds us that we still face the dangerous and permeating death of sin.
Feast of First fruits: Celebrates that God gives us His very best: Himself. In return, as an act of worship, we give Him our very best.
Feast of Weeks: Reminds us that God never wastes the wait.
Feast of Trumpets: Jesus will fulfill the Feast of Trumpets with His triumphant return.
Day of Atonement: This day showcase’s God’s elaborate grace.
Feast of Booths: Shines the spotlight on God and reminds His children of His character.

Each of these feasts gives us a better understanding of God and Jesus. There is so much important information and Erin helps us to digest each section slowly by asking us to write out certain Scriptures (which always helps me), and answering vital questions about what we've learned. She doesn't leave us wondering but explains everything beautifully and in ways that are very understandable.

I absolutely love this study and I think you will, too.  It's such a great study that will open your eyes to the 7 feasts, the Old Testament and Jesus. It's in-depth and totally Biblical, which is so important.  I highly recommend this study an give it 5 stars.

*This Bible study was provided to me by Side Door Communications and Moody Publishers. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. When you click on my Amazon link, I will earn a small fee on this item or anything else you purchase while clicked in on this link. I appreciate your support for my blog, More Of Him.

Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - Bible Workbook Old Testament and New Testament

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Whether a student is beginning their faith journey and wants to better understand the Bible, or a teacher wants his students to have the basics down, the workbooks help readers work through the fundamental themes and teachings of the Old and New Testament. Each workbook includes detailed maps, helpful exercises, and questions for students to do on their own to serve as a foundation for the work in the classroom. Highlights include:

• An introduction and overview of the Bible as a whole • Overviews of the main books in the Old and New Testaments including author background, literary themes, timing, key texts, and outlines • A chronological study of the Old Testament and a brief study of all the books in the New Testament • An overview of the period between Malachi and Matthew, known as the “400 Silent Years” • Detailed walk through Paul’s Epistles • A parallel study of Revelation

While not designed to be exhaustive Bible studies, the workbooks help spark the interest of students so they will want to dig in more through classroom discussion and further study.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Catherine Walker (B.A., Wheaton College; M.A., Columbia Bible College; M.R.E. and D.R.E., Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) previously served as an instructor at the Indonesian Baptist Theological Seminary in Semarang for 26 years. Upon retirement she served as special assistant for intercessory prayer at Foreign Mission Board headquarters. She is author of Bible Workbook Volumes I and II and six theological textbooks in the Indonesian language. She also co-authored Disciples and Prayer Life.

MY REVIEW:

I enjoyed these workbooks so much! They are so well thought out and are really enjoyable as you go through them and fill in the answers. I really liked that they give you a clear understanding of the Bible when you're done.

These are not intended to be an exhaustive Bible study but to encourage you to read the Bible in a deeper way on your own. These workbooks do exactly that - they make you want to dig deeper into Scripture to understand God's Word.

These workbooks would be great for a new Christian, however, even as a life-long Christian, I learned things and felt that it enhanced my understanding of the Bible. These would be great workbooks for a small study group!

These studies are punched for a 3 ring binder and the pages are perforated so you can put them in a notebook and lay the pages flat, if you'd like. You could add notebook paper to your binder for taking additional notes, as well.

I really love these workbooks and high recommend them! I give them 5 stars.

*I received these workbooks from Side Door Communications. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.

Blessings - Julie

Free Bible Study - Before I Go; Jesus' Final Teaching and Prayer

ABOUT THE STUDY:

If you have ever wondered who Jesus Christ REALLY is or questioned His relevance in your life, I invite you to join us for the “Before I Go” study. All you need to complete this free online Bible study is 15-minutes per day and an e-mail address.

Jesus Christ stepped away from the crowds to spend His final moments with friends.

He knew His hour had come—His time on earth was short—so He did what any good leader would do: He offered tender instruction to His disciples, assured them of His love, and gave them one final assignment.

This detailed account of Jesus' final words and actions in John 14-17 helps us see Jesus Christ for who He really is.
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These words, penned by one of Jesus’ dearest friends, reveal the heart of the Man, the Messiah, and the Redeemer. They are the gospel truth that brings freedom, joy, and transformation into our lives.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sarah Koontz invites Christians of all ages to explore the beauty of God’s design through her writing at LivingbyDesign.org. She is a passionate storyteller who enjoys using illustrations to communicate deep spiritual truths. Before I Go is Sarah’s fifth free online Bible study, and she hopes to write many more in the years to come.

Sarah and her husband, Ryan, recently established a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to support this ministry and invite you to partner with them in their mission to “Feed God’s Sheep.” Every $1 donated to our ministry helps 5 people receive free Bible study material in their inbox.

By continuing to provide our Bible-centered resources free of charge, we are able to overcome many barriers and reach women around the globe with the spiritual nourishment they crave.

Sarah and Ryan live on thirteen acres in the heart of the Black Hills, SD. They have two beautiful daughters, Anya (10) and Nadia (9), a rowdy flock of chickens, and two cats. Sarah is an avid gardener, a faithful coffee drinker, lover of one-pot-dinners, and an unexpected homeschooler. When she’s not covered in dirt or caring for her family, Sarah loves to spend her weekends reading Historical Fiction and listening to Norah Jones on Pandora radio.

MY REVIEW:

I have been so incredibly blessed to be on the launch team for Sarah Koontz's other Bible studies and was so excited when she announced this new study. It's absolutely amazing, as all her studies are, and I love that this one focuses on the final teaching and prayer of Jesus.

The study only takes about 15 minutes to do each day yet it gets deeply into the Word of God. I was amazed at how much I've learned while studying these chapters of John. I've read John many times, but Sarah pulls so much from the Scripture and I feel like I have a much deeper understanding of the words of Jesus.

Every day there is a focus word and I loved that they are verbs. Action words are so helpful to me as I go forth in my day trying to live my life as Jesus would. I would think about each word as I did various things or interacted with others in my life and tried to remember to act out my word by blessing others.

You can join in on this free study by going and registering HERE before October 15th. I absolutely love this study and I highly recommend the teachings of Sarah Koontz.  She is very Biblical and her teachings are sound. Plus, she's super nice and such a sweet person!

I hope you'll join the study as you'll learn so much! It's only a 3 week study so it's perfect for all of us busy women and you'll be done before the holidays really start. It's so exciting getting to know more about Jesus and His teachings!

Click on the graphic above to go to Sarah's website and reserve your spot today!

Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - He Is Enough

ABOUT THE STUDY:

In her first title in Moody Publishers Bible study line for women, Ciuciu, an author, speaker, and founder of One Thing Alone Ministries, leads women through a 6-week Bible study on the book of Colossians. She guides women verse-by-verse through Colossians to help them realize the fullness of the riches that are ours in Christ and shows how when we realize this, we will begin living out the reality of that fullness that is already ours in Him.

Designed for both individual and group study, each day includes two study options. For those with more limited time, the “Snack on the Go” option gets to the meat of the verses and allows women to meditate throughout the day on God’s Word. For those who desire to go more in-depth, each day also includes a “Feast at the Table” plan, based on Ciuciu’s FEAST method of inductive Bible study (Focus on God, Engage the Text, Assess the Main Idea, Spark Transformation, and Turn to God in Worship). Weekly focuses include:

“You’ve been brought to fullness in Christ,” says Ciuciu. “There is no other “if only” that will fulfill you. Losing that weight, getting that paycheck, moving into that neighborhood; all these things may make you feel better in the moment, but they don’t bring lasting satisfaction because they were never meant to. The full life is not beyond our reach; it’s already ours in Christ Jesus when we find our satisfaction in Him.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Asheritah Ciuciu is a writer, speaker, and founder of One Thing Alone Ministries–an online community of women who find joy in Jesus through creative spiritual disciplines. She's also the author of Full: Food, Jesus, and the Battle for Satisfaction, Unwrapping the Names of Jesus, and He is Enough (Moody, June 2018). 

Asheritah grew up in Romania as a missionary kid and lives with her high school sweetheart and spunky children in northeast Ohio. Her passion is leading busy women deeper with Jesus in the midst of their everyday lives both in her local church and online at www.OneThingAlone.com.

MY REVIEW:

The first thing you'll notice about this Bible study is how absolutely gorgeous it is! It is so very eye appealing from the front cover to the back. I felt like so much thought was put into this study. Of course, how it looks doesn't mean anything if it isn't Biblical or doesn't teach us anything about God. However, this study definitely does just that and is excellent in bringing you to a closer relationship with the Lord and knowing Him more intimately. Being that it's published by Moody Publishers gives me assurance that it's going to be Biblical and I can trust what I'm reading and learning about.

I am enjoying doing this study so much. It digs deep, which I like, without feeling like I don't have the time to do it. I like that the author really keeps the focus on Jesus and how important it is to focus on Him. The study titles for the weeks include:

• Praying through Christ
• Rejoicing in Christ
• Complete in Christ
• Hidden with Christ
• Loving like Christ  and
• Ministering with Christ.  

There are a lot of extras in the book including a devotional guide for leaders. This study has been excellent doing it on my own but would be fantastic for a small group or Women's Bible study in church. I have learned so much doing this study, and although I haven't quite finished it, I plan to do so because it's one of the best studies I've done. I really like that I'm learning so much about Jesus and that He truly is enough in all situations.

I recommend this study very highly as an wonderful study for all women. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Side Door Communications

Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - This I Know by Laura Dingman

ABOUT THIS STUDY:

We live in a culture of unknowns. Every day, the headlines report news of acts of terror, political upheaval, and grievous sins against others. In our personal world, we may receive unwanted news from the doctor, struggle with wayward children or worry how we’re going to pay the next bill when finances are stretched thin. We want to know the future—to know what is coming—so that somehow we can control the outcome, often leading to needless anxiety and fear.

In her second title in Moody Publishers’ Bible study line for women, Dingman, a Bible teacher and creative arts director at a large Indianapolis church, leads women through a 6-week Bible study focused on biblical truths about the trustworthy characteristics of God, helping them see how better knowing God leads to a life free from anxiety and fear and allows them to step confidently into an unknown future.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Laura Dingman spends most of her time creating and leading worship experiences that help connect people with the story of God. She has served in vocational ministry as the Creative Arts Director at The Creek, a large church in Indianapolis, for over a decade.

She loves to show people where their story intersects with God’s story. She enjoys belting Broadway, laughing hysterically, reading great books, and living life with her favorite two people in the whole world, her husband, Matt, and her spunky daughter, Abigail. She is the author of Life Rhythms: Learning to Live in God-Centered Time and I Am Found: Quitting the Game of Hide and Seek with God and Others.

Laura has developed curriculum for This I Know and is planning to teach the material at her church. The teaching sessions will be recorded and available for purchase in June 2018. You can learn more about her journey and connect with her at www.lauradingman.com.

MY REVIEW:

The thing I love about every Moody published Bible study is that I can trust it to be Biblical and beautiful.

This is a six week study and it was such a blessing to me as it addresses those horrible feelings of fear, anxiety and worry - all things I've been dealing with. I loved how she points out who God is, His promises for us and all this helped to alleviate those horrible fearful feelings.

I really liked how she pulled her own personal stories into this Bible story, too, making it feel more personal and also reassuring me that she knew how I was feeling when I get into those fearful areas of my life.

The five days of study were perfect for each week, leaving the weekend free for time with family or for making up a day if I missed one. I also love the beautiful turquoise font throughout and how they did so much to make this study beautiful for the eyes as well as for the soul.

I love this study and highly recommend it! I give it 5 out of 5 stars and hope that you'll make this your next study.

*This Bible study was provided to me for my honest review by Side Door Communications and Moody Publishers


Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - The Unexplainable Church

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Frustrated with the watered-down, “light” Bible studies that are all too common, Erica Wiggenhorn wanted to write a study that went deep. She wanted to take readers verse-by-verse through a whole book of the Bible, offering theological and historical comments in each lesson while remaining practical and relational.

The Unexplainable Church is the result, and it offers readers two great takeaways. It will teach them by example how to study the Bible deeply, and it will challenge them toward critical life-change: submitting their will to the mission of Jesus, who gives life its fullest meaning.

The message of The Unexplainable Church is that the early church didn’t grow because Peter and Paul were so amazing, but because average people were transformed by God and brought together in His work. This 10-week inductive study of Acts 13–28 will sweep readers into the great drama of the Kingdom, inspiring them to live together in the power of the Spirit and accomplish what could never be done alone.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Erica lives in Phoenix with her husband, Jonathan, and children, Eliana and Nathan. They attend Desert Springs Community Church, where Erica volunteers with the Charis Women’s Ministry, teaching and serving on its leadership team. She also manages her husband’s medical practice, Estrella Ear Nose & Throat, P. C., but will soon transition into full-time ministry and motherhood. Contact Erica at ericawigg@gmail.com.

MY REVIEW:

I have enjoyed this Bible study so much! My favorite things about the study is how in-depth it is. I love how I gain so much insight and learn new things after each page.

This is a 10 week study on Acts chapters 13-28. The author takes us on a deep study of each and every verse in these chapters. The questions she asks help us to really take a good look at the text and see what the Lord is teaching us and telling us through His Word. Her questions aren't so difficult that you're confused but they aren't simplistic, either.

She also asks us questions that relate to our own lives. These questions help us to apply what we have learned to our own lives and, that to me, is what Bible study is about. Creating a life that glorifies God. I love how this study helps us to recognize that God can and does use us.

There is a wonderful map in the back for reference as you're studying about the disciples. I really like that because I like seeing where they are at as we follow them on their mission to share the Gospel. Before we start the study, Erica shares how to get the most out of it and I found this extremely helpful.

This would be a great study to do as an individual, a small group or a women's group study. I've enjoyed working on this Bible study so much and highly recommend it! I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

*This study was provided to me for my honest review by Moody Publishers


Blessings - Julie

Women of Faith - Bible Study Review & Giveaway!

ABOUT THE STUDY:

Giving God Your Future foreword from Thelma Wells. "It sure makes life a lot easier to handle when all the responsibility of planning your future is left up to the Master of the Future." - Thelma.

In this book you will explore what Scripture says about giving everything to God and surrendering to Him. Throughout the 12 lessons you will be able to pray your way to giving up control and give Him your future. This study looks at what the Bible says about trusting God enough to give Him our all and being able to say, "Not my will, but Yours be done."

MY REVIEW:

When I saw these studies, I knew that I was going to love them all, but especially, the study by Thelma Wells called GIVING GOD YOUR FUTURE. I have loved the teaching of Thelma Wells for many years and this study title resonated very much for me.

Many of us worry about our futures and fret about what our futures hold. This study gives us the tools, through Scripture, to give our futures to God and entrust to Him the plans He has for us.

There are Twelve Chapters and each one has a series of questions whose answers are easily found by looking them up in your Bible. There are also very inspiring quotes on most pages from favorite Christian women teachers. At the end of each chapter there is a Ponder and Pray Section. In this, Thelma encourages and leads you how to pray over what you have learned. After this section, there is a Section called Trinkets to Treasure. This section gives you an object to think about that reminds you of God's promises for your future. I also like that there is a full page for making notes and prayer requests at the end of the chapters.

You can easily do a chapter per week, dividing the questions into two or three per day so you can really focus on them. I enjoyed doing it on my own, during my quiet time, however, is would be a great small group study.

This study helps you to dig deep into the Word of God and you have a much deeper understanding of Him and all that He holds for your future. I highly recommend this study and give it 5 out of 5 stars.

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I was also given a copy of the studies BUILDING YOUR STRENGTHS by Patsy Clairmont and PRAYING WITH POWER by Patsy Clairmont. Both of these studies are written in the same format as the one that I read and reviewed. They are excellent studies, as well, and will draw you deeper into the Word of God

*These studies were provided to me for my honest review by the Blythe Daniel Agency

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GIVEAWAY!!

I was very generously given another set of the studies to give away!  The winner of this giveaway will win all three studies!

To enter, please leave a comment on this post telling me which study sounds most exciting to you. The winner will be randomly chosen and announced next week.

Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - I Am Found

ABOUT THE STUDY:

In this debut title in Moody Publishers’ new Bible study line for women, Dingman, a Bible teacher and creative arts director at a large Indianapolis church, leads women through a 6-week Bible study focused on helping them discover their true identity in Christ, experience freedom from shame and fear, and understand what it means to live in awe of God.

Endorsed by the likes of Carol Kent, Jonathan Merritt, Cheri Lowe, and Jen Ferguson, I Am Found is designed for small groups as well as individual study. Each week is broken into six daily studies, with five including Scripture passages, teaching from Dingman, and a prayer related to the study. The sixth day focuses on a truth (what God’s Word teaches), a lie (name the lies we’ve believed and reclaim them with new truths), and action steps (to help you name your shame and come out of hiding).

“Shame is ingrained in our thinking,” says Dingman. “We have carried it our entire lives. In order to begin thinking differently, we must spend some time redirecting our thoughts. This new thinking requires that we replace the lies with truth and take action.”

Throughout the study, Dingman guides women as they learn about the origination of shame, why we’re all hiding, what God has to say about it, and how we can win the war against shame. She also looks at the importance of choosing spiritual friendships and what that looks like, the truth about our identity and belonging, and why even when we hide, God searches for us for as long as it takes.

“You can’t escape God,” says Dingman. “You can’t outrun Him, because He never relents. You can’t choose anything so out of bounds He will not follow you there, because He fiercely pursues you. Remember, God is for you. He is good and has good things in mind for you. Even when trouble comes your way or worse yet, you choose it, He works it for your good.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

 Laura Dingman spends most of her time creating and leading worship experiences that help connect people with the story of God. She has served in vocational ministry as the Creative Arts Director at The Creek, a large church in Indianapolis, for over a decade.

She loves to show people where their story intersects with God’s story. She enjoys belting Broadway, laughing hysterically, reading great books, and living life with her favorite two people in the whole world, her husband, Matt, and her spunky daughter, Abigail. She is the author of Life Rhythms: Learning to Live in God-Centered Time and I Am Found: Quitting the Game of Hide and Seek with God and Others.

You can learn more about her journey and connect with her at www.lauradingman.com.

MY REVIEW:

This is another visually gorgeous study but it's more than that - it's a beautiful study that will really help you in your quest to figure out how to live a life without shame and to connect more deeply with others.

This is a study that helps us realize that we don't have to live with shame and that God is not keeping us away from Him but He wants to draw us closer. Through living in Him we can learn to let go of the things that hold us back from being authentic and more open with others.

This is a six week study and I absolutely love all the open areas for answering the questions and journaling my thoughts. It's full of great Scripture and Biblical truth that will draw you closer to the Lord. It's not an overwhelming study yet it was deep enough that I feel like I really learned a lot from it.

This is a wonderful study and I highly recommend it. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

*This study was provided to me for my honest review by Moody Publishers


Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - An Unexplainable Life

ABOUT THE STUDY:

In this debut title in Moody Publishers’ new Bible study line for women, Wiggenhorn, a Bible teacher, speaker, and founder of EveryLife Ministries in Phoenix, takes women on a 50-day journey through Acts 1-12, helping them to understand biblical truths about the Holy Spirit, Pentecost, the early church, and the mission of the disciples.

Designed for small groups, churches, as well as individual study, An Unexplainable Life includes ten weeks of lessons, five per week, and features a daily Scripture passage (which women are encouraged to read aloud), commentary from Wiggenhorn, and in-depth, interactive questions. While many Bible studies on the book of Acts exist, Wiggenhorn’s hope is that this study will reignite a movement of the power of the Holy Spirit in each woman individually and in their churches collectively.

“The Holy Spirit was sent to authenticate Christ’s claims of deity,” says Wiggenhorn. “The Spirit powerfully manifests Himself in order for Christ’s prayers that the church will demonstrate an unexplainable love for Him and for one another are fulfilled. Yet we can lose our dependence on the Holy Spirit and attempt to manufacture our own power. But the Holy Spirit is our Counselor who guides us into all truth. He is the One who enables us to understand the Scriptures. He is the One who empowers us to live out the mission. He is able to work in and through us so the world may know the power of Christ.”

Throughout the study, Wiggenhorn guides women as they learn about unexplainable change, courage, mission, vision, expansion, unity, and discipleship as well as God and the journey we take toward an unexplainable life. She encourages women to pray boldly, build their knowledge of Scripture, serve, tell the truth, share their faith, and resolve to obey God’s leading, no matter what.

“Prayer is where we talk it through. The Word is where our spiritual warnings are given,” says Wiggenhorn. “Keeping in step with the Spirit requires diligence and perseverance, but when you have it down, your life becomes a beautiful display accompanied by a skillful melody—it becomes unexplainably harmonious!”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Erica Wiggenhorn is the founder of Every Life Ministries, bringing you the truths of Scripture to transform your life. By digging deeply into God’s Word, Every Life Ministries encourages you to discover your unique purpose, accept God’s promises, and live by His power. Erica’s latest study An Unexplainable Life: Recovering the Wonder and Devotion of the Early Church is based on the first twelve chapters of Acts and released in July from Moody Publishers.

Erica serves on the women’s ministry leadership team for her church and regularly teaches in various venues. She’s also taught women in the Arizona State Prison system, and overseas. She loves to bring God’s Word to anyone who’ll listen!

A graduate and post-graduate of Azusa Pacific University, Erica lives in Phoenix with her husband, Jonathan, and their two children, Eliana and Nathan.

For more information, along with free resources that coincide with the study, visit ericawiggenhorn.com.

MY REVIEW:

I really love this study! First of all, it's such a beautiful book inside and out. I love all the details inside the pages and it makes the girl in me happy to see such a gorgeous book.

The most important part is the study itself. It's about the book of Acts, Chapters 1-12 and the author brings so much to this study. Although I have studied Acts before, I really learned a lot from this study that I hadn't learned before. The study is very Biblical and it really teaches deep truths from the Word of God.

This is a ten week study that encourages you to find the truth on your own without making it too difficult or too simple. It is full of in-depth questions and then at the end of each chapter is a section for you to write your prayers. It really helped me to put into words, through prayer, what I learned and how I want to apply it to my life.

This is a wonderful Bible study and I highly recommend it! It give it 5 out of 5 stars.

*This study was provided to me for my honest review by Moody Publishers


Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - Redeemed by Angela Thomas-Pharr

ABOUT THE STUDY:

The moment you accept Jesus as the Lord over your life, you are redeemed. As the redeemed, we experience a lifelong journey of being transformed into HIs image. As redeemed women, we grow in the grace of Christ, and He calls us to extend grace to others.

 In this 7-session Bible study, Angela Thomas-Pharr explores the practical side of redemption, inviting us to lean upon Jesus for our real help and hope.

Features:
•Leader helps to guide questions and discussions within small groups
•6 personal study segments with homework to complete between 7 weeks of group sessions
•“40 Days of Prayer” section to help women practically apply the concept of ongoing redemption to their lives

Benefits:
•Desire to fully live the life of the redeemed
•Welcome change as God slowly transforms you into His image
•Increase your passion for God’s Word
•Apply redemption to your life in practical ways
•Learn alongside other women and support each other through prayer and small group community
•Learn to lean upon Jesus for your real help and hope

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Angela Thomas-Pharr is a Bible teacher, national speaker, and best-selling author of books and Bible studies that include Stronger and Brave. As a mother of four, her determination to know God on an intimate level and her dedication to studying the Bible have taught her many truths—some discovered through tears and some in times of joy. Angela has the uncanny ability to be transparent, make readers laugh, and whisper to them about their most personal fears and heartfelt dreams. Visit her at angelathomas.com.

MY REVIEW:

This is a wonderful study that will totally transform how you react to your everyday life. I feel like I gained so much from this study which is full of Biblical truths. I haven't finished the study yet but so far I have been very impressed.

This is a seven day study, which is unusual as most studies are five days. However, Angela points out the reasons why we can do a seven day study and I found I agree with her.

This study is based on the word LOVE and how it can transform us. It comes down to the fact that God is love and that HE transforms us. She emphasizes that we aren't strong or capable ourselves but God can make us so.

This is really an excellent study and I love all the space to write! A lot of times the authors don't take into account that we need room to write what we've learned and I love that there is definitely enough space. I highly recommend this study and I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

*This book was provided to me for my honest review by B and H/Lifeway Publishers


Blessings - Julie

Bible Study/Book Review - Looking for Lovely

ABOUT THE BOOK:

As Christians, we are not promised lives of ease. Often it takes just a small moment of beauty to regain hope and continue on when life is chaotic and unpredictable. Only when we learn to spot the lovely in the midst of hardship can we experience the transcendent peace of God that keeps us persevering when we want to give up.

In this 7-session Bible study, Annie F. Downs examines the ordinary people of the Bible—fishermen, gardeners, women, soldiers—to reveal the moments they found beauty in the darkest circumstances and hope in God’s timing. Because they trusted in this: He makes everything beautiful in His time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


Annie F. Downs is an author, blogger, and speaker based in Nashville, Tennessee. Flawed but funny, she uses her writing to highlight the everyday goodness of a real and present God. An author of three books- Let's All Be Brave, Perfectly Unique, and Speak Love, Annie also loves traveling around the country speaking to young women, college students, and adults. Annie is a huge fan of bands with banjos, glitter, her community of friends, boiled peanuts, and football games.

MY REVIEW:

This is a wonderful study! The first thing that really appeals to me about this book is how really beautiful it is. Considering the title, "Looking for Lovely", I thought this was well done because it emphasizes the beauty that we are looking for. Each page is well thought out and very pleasing to the eye.

This is a seven week study and it was perfect for doing on my own, but it would also make a great small group study. It's meant to be used with her video series, however, I don't have them and still was able to gain a lot from this study. Would I like to have had the videos? Absolutely, but it's nice that they aren't required to still gain a lot from this study.

The questions will make you really think. They are not the type of questions where you sit down and think you'll answer them in a few minutes. The questions are written with the idea of you to really ponder your answers. There is Scripture throughout to also meditate on and answer questions about.

This study really can be life transforming. I found myself thinking a lot differently about how I view life, how I thought it should be, and how it really is. I also have gained a lot more perseverance about things and find that I don't give up as easily as I did. I see purpose to my life in areas I didn't see before and this has truly been exciting for me.

I love this study. I can't say enough wonderful things about it. It's truly a great study and I know you'll love it as much as I do.

*This study/book was provided to me for my honest review by B&H Lifeway Books


Blessings - Julie

DVD Review - Lazarus Awakening Study Pack

ABOUT THE DVD STUDY PACK:

Mary worshiped. Martha served. But what did Lazarus do to experience Jesus’s lavish love?

Filmed in the Holy Land, this DVD companion to Joanna Weaver’s book Lazarus Awakening explores the incredible truth that Jesus loves us apart from our works or our worthiness. He wants to call us out of our tombs and into friendship with Him.

Designed for use with the book and companion study guide, this three-disc DVD Bible study is formatted for both individual and group use, with content suitable for both men and women.
·         In-depth Bible study: Features eight 15- to 17-minute video sessions.
·         Bonus “Israel Moment” videos explore the life of Christ and the Holy Land.
·         Designed for use with the study guide and book.
·         Leader’s guide, promotional material, and retreat format included.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Joanna Weaver is the best-selling author of Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, Having a Mary Spirit, Lazarus Awakening, and the award-winning gift book With This Ring. Her articles have appeared in such publications as Focus on the Family, Guideposts, and HomeLife. Joanna and her pastor-husband, John, have three children and live in Montana. Visit her website at www.JoannaWeaverBooks.com. 

MY REVIEW:

I recently read Joanna Weaver's book, "Lazarus Awakening" and was so excited to have the chance to review her Bible study and DVD series. She's a marvelous teacher in her books and I couldn't wait to do the Bible study!

The first thing I noticed when I received my DVD set was how wonderfully it was packaged. Now, this may seem like a trite thing, but how often have you been disappointed to receive a DVD set and hear shaking going on inside the box and know that your precious DVD you just received is probably scratched? These DVD's were in a wonderful case with even a square of foam inside to keep things from moving around .

I then started the Bible study. All I can say is, "Wow!" Joanna is a marvelous teacher and she brings such clarity to the Biblical teaching of Lazarus. She teaches the series from Israel and takes us to the places where Jesus walked and to the town where Lazarus lived and was raised. The scenery is breath-taking and I love how you can hear the birds singing in the background behind her talking in some of the shots. It makes you feel as though you are right there in Israel with her!

Next, I love how clearly Joanna speaks. You can understand everything she says and there's no re-winding the DVD to try and capture her words. She's animated with her love for Jesus and it brings an excitement to her teaching.

The Bible study guide is very well laid out. You have the section where you watch the DVD and fill in the blanks, and again, Joanna makes this very clear in the videos. It's written at the bottom of the screen with the blank there and then is filled in so you can clearly see what you should write in your own book. You then have study on your own - going through the Bible and writing in your book where indicated.

I absolutely love this study! I learned so much and it brought me into a greater understanding of my walk with Jesus. I love her analogy of how, like Lazarus, once Jesus calls us, we can unwrap those bindings that had us living dead for so long. It's just an amazing Bible study and would be wonderful as a women's ministry study in a church, for a small group, or done on your own, like I did. It will bring you closer to the Lord and give you a greater understanding of how the Lord truly wants to set you free. I give this study/DVD set 5 out of 5 stars. You can find the link below to purchase your own set.

*This Bible study/DVD set was provided to me for my honest review by the Blogging for Books program. 

Blessings - Julie

I'm Home Again

I am home from the hospital - which is such a nice thing! I got released late Monday night and this week has just been overwhelming with nurse visits and doctor visits. I'm so tired!

I have several infections and so they sent me home with a picc line and I'm having to give myself push meds and IV's through the line. It's all a new experience! My youngest son has really helped me and he learned to do the IV's, too, just in case I'm too tired or unable to do everything myself. So far, I'm doing good with it and I always believe in taking personal responsibility for caring for myself as much as possible. I can't do a whole lot, so what I can do, I do. So far, I'll be doing this for two weeks but it really depends on what my blood work shows. 

I'm still on the wound vac and even though the wound is larger now because of the amount of dead tissue and infection the doctor had to remove, it looks better and healthier. I'm so very thankful that I got this surgery done as I truly wonder if this infection would have eventually just taken over my body and I would have had all kinds of horrible problems.

I don't have a lot of news other than health news right now. I haven't been up to doing much but read and study my Bible. However, I would rather study my Bible and read than anything else anyway so it's all good. I'm hoping this weekend I'll be able to catch up on my rest because I won't have to go anywhere or have any nursing visits. I haven't been able to sleep in since I've been home so I've been running on about 5-6 hours of sleep. Not enough, my friends! lol

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and happy Father's Day to all those dads out there!

Blessings - Julie

Bible Study Review - Restless by Jennie Allen

ABOUT THE STUDY:

Restless explores the fact that God has called each of us to do great things in his name, and then helps us discover what that might mean for each of us individually. Jennie says, "We are called to dream but we're afraid to. But because we are called, when we don't act on it we become restless—restless to find purpose, to make a difference in the world, to matter."

Jennie doesn't suggest women add one more thing to their to-do list, but instead invites them to stop and listen where they are. She frees them to be themselves and to see themselves as valuable. In addition to this permission to dream she helps them get over themselves and their issues and then offers a simple process on highly designed journal pages to identify the raw materials—the unique threads—they've been given by digging into five areas:
-  Gifts
-  Suffering
-  Places
-  People
-  Passions

Using her own story and that of women with whom she has walked through this process as examples, Jennie weaves in the story of Joseph the dreamer and how God used his threads to fit into the greater story of God. Untangling the threads of our lives and assembling them together in one place reveals a beautiful plan designed by the Creator himself: God's Agenda + my threads + the need + the Holy Spirit = my purpose

And since living out our purpose is often filled with uncertainties Jennie addresses the doubts, fears, and challenges that hold women back from what they've been called to do. This repositioning of their lives is not a promise that all things will be perfect, or will go perfectly, but a promise that it will be the start of the best part of life—the part that completes what we were made for.

MY REVIEW:

If you have been reading my blog for any length of time, you know that I love the Jennie Allen Bible studies. This one is no exception.


Jennie is so real and encourages us so much as she speaks to us each week on the DVD that comes in this study. There is also a leader guide, participant book, and conversation cards. I'm a big fan of these cards because it really does help the leader start the conversation going with her group. Sometimes, this really helps those ladies that are just shy to open up, too, as it will be a question that really resonates with them.

I really like the participants book. The questions at the end of each week are really thought provoking. This study is about being who God has called you to be - it's designed to help you use the special gift(s) that the Lord has given you and these questions really help you pin-point what these gifts are. There were some questions I could answer really easily, but others, I had to really sit and think about over several days. I really liked that it helped me to realize who I really am and that God made me this way!

The Leader's guide is amazing and so helpful in that the first part of the book really helps the leader understand how to lead! It goes into preparing yourself for leadership, things to watch out for, and the different types of learners that you may encounter in your group. I found this really wonderful because it made me feel prepared for leading this study!

All of Jennie's studies are Biblical and full of Scripture. This study focuses on Joseph - a story I absolutely love - and how the Lord used each and every part of his life (good and bad) to bring him to who God wanted him to be! I know for me, I love to think that I am a Joseph and that some day the Lord will bring it all together "for such a time as this". How humbling!

I highly, highly recommend this study. It's a definite 5 out of 5 star study!

*This study was provided to me for my honest review by Shelton Interactive


Blessings - Julie