• Book: “Made to Crave” by Lysa Terkeurst

    I recently attended a Ladies Bible Study at our church and we went through Lysa Terkeurst’s book and study guide “Made to Crave: Satisfying Your Deepest Desire with God, Not Food”  It was great reading a book that redirected our focus off food or other objects that we turn to when we want comfort or for celebration and turning our focus onto God.  The book isn’t a diet or healthy eating plan.  It is more of a guide to help you get your priorities in place.  If you are looking to eat healthier it gives you steps on how to set up a plan, find an accountability partner, and scripture to encourage you.  It was a refreshing yet challenging book to read.  I enjoyed going through the book and study with friends as well.  It was neat hearing their thoughts about the lessons and their own journeys as well.

    While I was going through the Bible Study I had the opportunity to attend the Extraordinary Women’s Conference at the Bi-Lo Center in Greenville, SC.  I was able to hear Lysa speak during that weekend and meet her in person.  It was really neat to meet the author of the book I was currently reading, I even got her to sign my two books that I had of hers!  The other amazing blessing about that weekend is I was able to spend some extra time with some girlfriends while my husband took care of the girls.  Having some time learning and celebrating with friends was a real treasure.  Thankful for a man who gave me the opportunity to go!

  • Book: “Lioness Arising” by Lisa Bevere

    Lisa Bevere’s new book “Lioness Arising” encourages Christian women to wake up and make an impact on world around them.  The idea for the book was from a vision Lisa had while she was still pregnant with her fourth son.  Although some may perceive “Lioness Arising” to be a more feminist book you have to look at the book in it’s entirety; it is meant to be a motivational call to stir the hearts women.  A change in history usually starts when one person chooses to stand up while everyone else is still seated.

    “Lioness Arising” is a fresh reminder to women that we have been designed by a creator and called to live a life of purpose.  It is evident in the book that Lisa has a fascination with the lion analogy based off the stories she reveals and the powerful images of the lioness she paints with her words.  Comparing a lioness’ beauty and power to women of faith gave the book a unique twist over some of the other ones I have read in the past.  Unlike many of us, the lioness is comfortable (and content) in her own skin and her beauty is revealed in her strength.

    Sometimes we need a “wake up” call to motivate us into action.  God gives us the skills we need to serve him, however, so often we are more concerned about figuring out the step-by-step process that we take too long and we miss out on some great things he has planned for us.  Lisa gives several biblical examples of women who made history.  This books calls you to be fully awake and ready to write your piece of history.   As women we need to let go of the baggage and life’s daily obligations that are holding us back in order to be attentive to the needs around us.  Lisa encourages women to unite together, uplift each other, and make an difference.

    Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes from the publisher through the Waterhouse Multnomah.  The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”