12 Days of Christmas - Yeshua is the Reason

Oftentimes during the Christmas season, we can sometimes get so bogged down by all the stress and excitement that Christmas time often brings. We can frequently get so busy with the decorating, presents, and family, that we lose sight of what Christmas really means. I know at times I have gotten so stressed that I have for a moment forgotten the real reason. Do we take time to remember the real reason for the season? 

Yeshua (Jesus) is the reason for the season. He came to earth as a tiny baby; and grew up to give His life for you. For me. He is the most precious and amazing gift ever given. During this busy Christmas season, don't forget the one reason we celebrate.

from Pinterest

Merry Christmas! (Don't forget to head over to Faith's blog for her post and other blogger's posts!) :)

12 Days of Christmas - Hallelujah - What does it mean?

Today's post is a little study on the word, "Hallelujah". It isn't exactly Christmas-y, but as I was flipping through Christmas songs and such, it's a common word used throughout songs.

"Hallelujah" is also often something that is shouted in church, and exclaimed in thanksgiving. However, have you ever taken time to really dig into what it means?

"Hallelujah" should be more accurately spelt with a "Y" instead of a "J". Like this: "HalleluYah". Now we are going to break it up into the two Hebrew words it comes from. "Hallelu" means "Praises to" and "Yah" is one of God's Hebrew names. 

"HalleluYah" actually means "Praises to Yah"! Isn't that so cool?! Hallelujah is a very powerful word. Now that you know what it means, keep this in mind as you sing or say, HalleluYah! :) 

***

Below I have linked some of my favorite songs and Christmas songs with Hallelujah frequently used in them. ;)

BarlowGirl - Hallelujah (Light has Come) 

Joy Williams - Here With Us

Elevation Worship - Hallelujah Here Below

(Don't forget to head over to Faith's blog and check out her post and other blogger's posts!) :)

12 Days of Christmas - Beyond the Horizon (book review)

Today's post is a book review of one of my favorite Christmas novels! :)

Synopsis

Eliana longs to see the world beyond the mountains that tower above Salzburg, Austria, but knows that dream will never see such adventure- and neither will she. 

Surrounded by a world of cruelty, she lives for the weekly visits of Aron, a boy she met on one of her rambles through the countryside. 

But as the years pass and she begins to grow older, a new and unwelcome world is opened up to her. On a fateful night at a party she vowed she'd never attend, she comes face to face with a shocking truth. 

As the world around her teeters on the brink of war, Eliana struggles to figure out just where her loyalty lies; a decision that will drastically change the course of her life. Will she ever be free to see what lies beyond the horizon? 

My Review

Apparently, I have not read many Christmas novels. However, out of all the ones I have read, this one is definitely among my favorites! :)

Now, the characters. ;) I really liked how Aron was always watching out for Elly, and making sure she took care of herself. 

Elly was a sweet character. Her tendency to run outside in the freezing cold with no coat was hilarious! I loved the part when she discovered her Messiah! 

The setting was December 1938, in Salzburg, Austria. I really enjoyed the setting! The plot twists were very well written and well done; and made it interesting and unpredictable. The little bit of romance woven throughout the book was adorable! 

The way faith was portrayed, was amazing! Overall, I give this book 5/5 stars!

(Don't forget to head over to Faith's blog and check out her post and other blogger's posts!) :)

12 Days of Christmas - Christmas Books

Most people, even adults, like to read a good story book now and then. Today I'm going to show you some of my favorite Christmas ones, along with some of my favorite Christmas novels. :)

Tiny Baby Jesus - I love the illustrations in this one!

The Christmas Story For Children - Again, the illustrations are amazing!

Two From Galilee - It was fascinating to read Mary and Joseph's stories in a novel!

Three From Galilee - I really enjoyed reading more about Jesus in a novel setting!

Operation Christmas Spirit - A sweet little novel especially for younger girls about loving others, and forgiveness.

Beyond the Horizon - Sweet Christmas story! Review to come! :)

Behold - Adorable collection of Christmas short stories! Review here! 

(Don't forget to head over to Faith's blog and check out her post and other blogger's posts!) :)

12 Days of Christmas - Christmas Movies

Today's post is going to be on some of my family's favorite Christmas movies.

This is probably one of the most accurate and well done Nativity movies I have ever watched. The music and singing was great too! 

My family and I have watched this quite a few times over the years we've had it. The sweet family relationships and true meaning of giving was so special! I especially loved the part about the horse! ;)

What I liked about this one was the little bit of humor, and the sense of community in the town. :) 

(Don't forget to head over to Faith's blog and check out her post and other blogger's posts!) :)

12 Days of Christmas - The Blessing (book review)

Today I have a review about a winter-y book. :)

Synopsis

May Somerville has suffered a year worthy of the Bible's Job, and the man who unknowingly prompted all her troubles has fallen in love with her.

Isolated in Colorado's rugged mountains, her beloved family shattered by tragedy and loss, May Somerville questions her Creator amid her struggles to survive. Beset by unexpected storms, both physical and spiritual, May seeks blessings-reasons for hope as she works to restore her family. 

Separated from May by unforeseen circumstances and the expectations of others, Alex Whittier is determined to reverse injustices suffered by the Somervilles. But is it to late to redeem himself for the sake of the courageous young woman he's been unable to forget?

My Review

I thoroughly enjoyed The Blessing! The setting was unusual and interesting. After learning that the book was based partly on real life events in the late 1800s, I thought it was even more interesting.

May was an amazing character. She was the usually serious, cautious big sister to her siblings. Her strength after all that happened to her family was incredible.

May's other siblings, Harry, Leonie, Will, and adorable little Andy, were so fun to read about! I loved the family relationships between the kids.

Alex Whittier. At first, I grew exasperated with him. ;) However, as the book continued, I liked him more.

The setting was fascinating! The majority of the book is set in a small mining town in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado; late 1800s.

The Blessing had a strong theme of trusting God and believing that He will help you get through anything. The book did have quite a bit of sad parts in it; but it was really sweet too. 5/5 stars! :)

(Don't forget to head over to Faith's blog and check out her post and other blogger's posts!) :)

12 Days of Christmas - Favorite Christmas Music

Hello! This year I am participating in the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Party, hosted by a fellow blogger, Faith Potts. Be sure to check Faith's blog for her introduction post! :) Here is my first post of the tour! ;)

Today's post is on some of my favorite Christmas music. :)

Barlow Girl - Angelic Proclamation 

For King and Country - Baby Boy

Francesca Battistelli - You're Here

Meredith Andrews - Behold the Savior

BarlowGirl - Hallelujah (Light Has Come)

Francesca Battistelli - Heaven Everywhere

Lauren Daigle - Light of the World 

For King and Country - O Come, O Come Emmanuel

And, there's a giveaway! :)

First Place: The Christmas Secret by Wanda Brunstetter (paperback), Behold by Faith Potts (paperback), Christmas: God with Us (Jeremy Camp CD), surprise goodies

Second place: Seek by Angela R. Watts (paperback) & Coffee Shop Christmas by Ryana Lynn Miller (ebook)

Click here to enter the giveaway!

Behold Blog Tour - Review

Faith Pott's book, Behold, releases today!!! I've had the privilege of reading this sweet little novel for its blog tour! :)

Synopsis 

A collection of short stories honoring the birth of the Savior

From two siblings caught up in the harrowing days of World War II to separated foster children in the US...

From a memorable road trip across the Southeast to the reunion of a war-torn family...

You'll be swept up in the Christmas spirit with the endearing stories tucked inside these pages. The storylines range from family to romance to the bond of community, with settings scattered across America and beyond. 

Behold the beauty of the Savior's birth with this gathering of stories that warm the soul and bless the heart.

Goodreads // Amazon // Kindle

Author Bio

Saved by God's grace, Faith Potts is a teenage writer and homeschool graduate, living with her family and beloved yellow labs in the North Carolina mountains. When she's not weaving stories, consuming large amounts of coffee,  reading stacks of books, or studying American Sign Language, she can be found laughing harder than is healthy, daydreaming and--of course--blowing dandelions. 

Blog // Website // Facebook // Instagram // Goodreads

Review

An adorable collection of Christmas short stories. I arranged this review by writing a little about each short-story. :)

Home by Christmas

A sweet story about two siblings in World War II. I really liked the way things were handled in this story, since Doug (one of the characters) was severely wounded. 

Unexpected Blessing 

Loved this story about three foster siblings- twin girls, and an older brother. The siblings' relationships were so special! 

Christmas Homecoming 

A heartwarming story about a war-torn family reunion. The part where Jamison puts Jamie, his little kid, in his coat was hilarious! ;) The family relationships were so fun!

What Matters

Enjoyable story about what really matters- loving others, the way Jesus loves them, and taking the time out of your day to show others His love.

Overall rating: Definitely 5/5 stars! ;)

I really enjoyed reading each and every one of these short stories, although my favorite is probably Unexpected Blessing. The writing was beautifully done and easy to follow. 5/5 stars! :)

Giveaway 

First Place: paperback copy of Behold

Second Place: ebook copy of Behold

Click here to enter!

Tour Schedule

Wednesday, December 5th 

Brooklyne @ Showers of Blessings >> interview

Abigail McKenna @ Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors >> review

Victoria G. @ Victoria's Book Nook >> spotlight & interview

Jana @ Reviews from the Stacks >> spotlight & review & excerpt

Thursday, December 6th

Janelle @ The Ramblings of a Bookworm >> review
A. Kaylee @ Kaylee's Kind of Writes >> review & interview & excerpt
Kaitlyn Smith @ Maidens for Modesty >> review excerpt
Hannah Marie @ Silver-Lined Ramblings >> review

Friday, December 7th (release day!)

Rebekah @ RebekahAshleigh >> review
Ryana Lynn Miller @ Life of Heritage >> review & interview
Rebekah Morris @ Rebekah's Reading Room >> review & excerpt
Molly Anne @ Qadash - Set Apart, for Him >> review

Saturday, December 8th

Angela Watts @ The Peculiar Messenger >> spotlight
Gracelyn @ Literatura >> spotlight
Serethiel @ The Book Sprite >> spotlight & review
Abigail @ Books, Life, and Christ >> spotlight & review

Judge by R. J. Larson

Synopsis

The last thing Kien Lantec expects on his first day of military leave is to receive marching orders from his Creator, the Infinite. Orders that don't involve destroyer-racing or courting the love of his life, Ela. Adding to Kien's frustration, his Infinite-ordained duties have little to do with his skills as a military judge-in-training. His mission? To warn the people of ToronSea against turning their backs to the Infinite to worship a new goddess. 

But why Kien? Isn't this the role of a true prophet, such as Ela of Parne?

Seeking answers, Kien visits Ela and finds her stricken by a devastating vision of her own. Her birthplace, Parne, has been corrupted by her enemies and will soon suffer judgement. Pulled in separate ways, each must seek to follow the Infinite's leading and hope He will reunite them again soon. 

My Review

"Amazing! I love this book!" These were some of my thoughts after finishing Judge. The spiritual depth to this book was so incredible, and so good! Judge is a fascinating book!

Ela Roeh was definitely a favorite character! I loved her feistiness, and her willingness to follow the Infinite, even when it was unpopular and dangerous. (in many ways, Ela reminds me of myself throughout all of the Books of the Infinite series). ;)

I enjoyed seeing how Kien grew in his faith and trust in the Infinite. 

Tzana was so sweet, and so adorable, and I loved her childlike faith!

My favorite characters were the Infinite, Ela, Kien, and Tzana. However I also really liked Kalme, Dan, Jess, Bryce, Akabe, Beka and Jon. (They weren't main characters, but I still really enjoyed them!) :)

What I especially loved about this book is the relationships the Infinite had with His children Ela and Kien, among others. The Infinite was so forgiving, and so loving. It was so beautiful to see how the Infinite talks to His people, comforts His people, helps them, and cares for them.

Judge was so good! You all should check out R. J. Larson's books- they are extraordinary! :)

A Question of Courage by Jesseca Wheaton

Synopsis

A man. A decision. A destiny. 

Rafe Sullivan never imagined the war would come to his doorstep. But when Pearl Harbor is attacked and America's focus suddenly shifts to the pacific, he finds he can't ignore the problem anymore. Leaving the life he loves behind, he joins up to do what he does best. Fly. Yet, nothing could have prepared him for the horrors of war, and the struggle that is going on in his own heart. As an outstanding navy pilot, he is stationed on one of the few Pacific carriers. But could God be calling him to step out in faith, and go beyond the call of duty?

Lily Wilson gives her all to help the hurting community around her. With the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the war is brought home to many American families. And as a nurse, she longs to be able to relieve some of the suffering. Yet, her own grief is still fresh in her heart, and though she's made the decision to get on with her life, she can't seem to leave the past behind. When healing at last comes, the guard she placed around her heart slowly begins to crumble. But when she receives the news she hoped she would never again hear, can she trust that God's plan is always right?

Arthur Warrington saw the Navy as an escape from the life he left behind. And it seems good for him. He is able to forge new friendships and distance himself from his past. But when his best friend makes a decision that rocks his world, he is left grappling with the question: what is true courage?

Three lives. One War. And a search for the Courage to go on. 

My Review

A Question of Courage was utterly amazing! I enjoyed it so much! 5/5 stars totally!

First off, Little Gil was so adorable! And a mischief-maker. ;)

Lily's story was heartbreaking, but heartwarming at the same time. Lily struggled with trusting God, and having courage, which I think a lot of us struggle with. She was so sweet and strong.

Rafe was hilarious! He had a sense of humor, but was still strong in his convictions and faith in God. I loved his protectiveness of the girls in a brotherly sort of way. Rafe made sure his bunk mates treated the girls right. :)

Art was funny, although his past life affected him throughout the book. He had a harder time connecting with people in fear of them leaving- or dying.

The historical information was really good too. It was interesting to learn more about World War 2 from the perspectives of a nurse, sailor, and Navy pilot.

I loved the courage theme of the book. The theme was woven throughout the whole book very well.

Favorite quote: "...Just remember that what God calls you to do, He gives you the courage to accomplish." - Edith

"Burn the Ships" by For King & Country

"Burn the Ships" is about facing your fears, addictions or whatever is holding you captive, and burning it and leaving it behind. Leave the past behind, and step into a new day!

How did we get here?

We're cast away on a lonely shore

I can see in your eyes, dear

It's hard to take for a moment more

We've got to 

Burn the ships, cut the ties

Send a flare into the night

Say a prayer, turn the tide

Dry your tears and wave goodbye

Step into a new day

We can rise up from the dust and walk away

We can dance upon our heartache, yeah

So light a match, leave the past, burn the ships

And don't you look back

Don't let it arrest you

This fear, this fear of fallin' again

And if you need a refuge

I will be right here until the end

Oh, it's time to 

Burn the ships, cut the ties

Send a flare into the night

Say a prayer, turn the tide

Dry your tears and wave goodbye

Step into a new day 

We can rise up from the dust and walk away

We can dance upon our heartache, yeah

So light a match, leave the past, burn the ships

And don't you look back

So long to shame, walk through the sorrow

Out of the fire into tomorrow

So flush the pills, face the fear

Feel the weight disappear 

We're comin' clean, we're born again

Our hopeful lungs can breathe again

Oh, we can breathe again

Forgotten God by Francis Chan

About the book:

Powerful. 

When was the last time someone used that word to describe you?

It doesn't make sense that Almighty God would have children characterized by fear and insecurity. He put His Spirit in us so we could be known for our power (Acts 1:8; 2 Tim. 1:7). Sadly, most believers and churches are known for talent or intellect rather than supernatural power. What's worse is that we're okay with it. 

Could it be that we've forgotten the One who distinguishes us from every religion and cult in the world? 

Through solid scriptural support and compelling narrative, breakthrough author Francis Chan returns us to the Holy Spirit as the Bible describes Him. He reminds us that we were not created and saved merely to survive our time on earth. Chan contends that we've ignored the Spirit and are reaping the disastrous results. 

It's time for the beloved church of Jesus Christ to reverse the trend of neglect. Let's pursue the Spirit-filled life of effectiveness God desires and we desire. 

Review

This was a powerful book on what the Holy Spirit can do! It will open your eyes to how we have neglected the Holy Spirit. There were glimpses of what it looks like to live a Spirit-filled life. 

I totally recommend everyone to read Forgotten God. We need to reverse the trend of neglecting the Holy Spirit, and listen to Him completely. 

About the author:

Francis Chan, bestselling author of Crazy Love and Erasing Hell, is the founding pastor of Cornerstone Church in Simi Valley, California. His speaking ministry takes him across the country and all over the world. When he is home with his wife and four children, he relaxes by surfing the Southern California beaches.

This Present Darkness by Frank E. Peretii

About the book:

"For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the world rulers of this present darkness..." (Ephesians 6:12, RSV)

Ashton is just a typical small town. But when a skeptical reporter and a prayerful pastor begin to compare notes, they suddenly find themselves fighting a hideous New Age plot to subjugate the townspeople, and eventually the entire human race.

Not since The Screwtape Letters has there been a novel with as much insight into spiritual warfare and the necessity of prayer. Fast-moving, riveting reading ranks with the best thrillers on the bookshelf.

Review

The power of prayer was so strong in this book. The spiritual warfare was so amazing! There were many battles in the spiritual realms, which was fascinating to read about! 

It was eye-opening, learning about the spiritual side of things going on physically. 

There were angel, demon, and human perspectives. My favorite perspectives were the angels' and Hank, the pastor. I also loved the angels' personalities. They were all so different. ;) Some were more laid back, others not so much.

This Present Darkness is one of the best spiritual warfare books I've ever read! 5/5 stars!

Lord, Help Me Know You by Shane Walsh

About the book:

 "Are you ready to know Him?

For many Christians today, faithfully serving the Lord feels more like a burden than a blessing. They attend church regularly and do everything they are "supposed" to do, yet they struggle with the same issues and sins for years and never really mature in Christ. They try their best to serve God, but often times, the walk proves too burdensome and they leave the body of Christ altogether. 

The simple truth is that many Christians never take the right first step with Christ. Sometimes, we focus so quickly on doing Christian things that we miss the purest intent of a walk with Christ; simply coming to know Him. After all, how can you love someone you don't know, and how can you fully give yourself to serving someone you don't love?

This book tells the story of one such journey. It is the inspiring story of one man's pursuit to know Christ, and Christ's faithful response to his prayer, "Lord help me know You." It is a story of redemption, restoration, and revelation. 

Through this story you will see that Christ desires to personally reveal Himself to all of us. You will find the key to a life of faithful service for Him and how to truly carry your cross with gladness. You will understand why Jesus says, "My yoke is easy and my burden is light."

If you are one of those Christians struggling to faithfully serve the Lord, this book will demonstrate one thing to you - He wants you to know Him more than He wants you to serve Him."

Review

This book was so good. I needed to hear what was in this book, at this time. It was so awesome! The truth in it was so inspiring and refreshing!

God's always there, to hold you, comfort you, teach you, and guide you. God wants you to know Him personally, as your best friend, more than He wants you to serve Him.

Lord Help Me Know You encouraged me, and challenged me in my walk with Christ. I totally recommend this book for anyone to read. It was incredible!

About the author:

"Shane's story is not unlike many Christians today. Growing up in church, he was taught that God was kind, loving, and always protected His children, but at a young age, tragic circumstances would wound Shane's heart beyond repair. He ran from God as fast as he could, but through some incredible experiences, God proved Himself faithful, and at 28 Shane had a personal encounter with the Lord that changed his life forever. He would come to know Christ, not through what he was taught, but by experiencing Him first hand. Since that time, Shane has been passionately committed to reaching others like himself who have known about God, but who have never known God. This book is the inspiring story of his pursuit to know Christ and Christ's faithful response to his prayer, "Lord, help me know You." It is a story of redemption, restoration, and revelation. This story might possibly change your entire perspective on the Christian life."

Lydia: A Story of Philippi by Trudy J. Morgan-Cole

Synopsis

Weak, fallible, and sometimes contentious, they were just ordinary people. Could the Lord actually use them?

Lydia was only the first of many converts to the Christian faith in Philippi. The new religion attracted quite an assortment of individuals--slaves, masters, Jews, Gentiles, wealthy, and penniless. Yet the believers were supposed to be unified in Christ--equal--no matter their class, gender, and race.

Easier said than done! Those in the volatile first-century Greco-Roman society sometimes got along better with the new believers than they did with each other. Driven by personality conflicts and misguided ambition, heated quarrels splintered the group into warring factions. Only God could salvage this wreckage. 

Trudy J. Morgan Cole's skillful touch transforms the New Testament narrative of Lydia and the people of Philippi into a vibrant story of challenges and triumphs. You know, of course, the dual problem and solution to their irreconcilable situation: "Let this mind be in you, which is also in Christ Jesus..."

Review

It was fascinating to learn about the first-century Christians in a novel setting!

Lydia was a widow merchant who sold purple cloth. Her only son and child, Epaphroditus, was expected to take over his mother's dye shop, but his real dream was to travel and preach the gospel. He does end up traveling and preaching the gospel at the end of the book. 

Euodia was a young slave girl who was possessed by demons and then was freed in the name of Jesus. She was so passionate and fiery about Jesus and her faith in Him.

Reading about Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke in a novel was really interesting. Paul was very serious. Luke was quiet, but a deep thinker. 

Clement was the lead guard at the jail, his wife's name is Syntyche. They believed in false gods until they discovered Jesus Christ.

Some of the book was Biblically based, from Acts 16 and the book of Philippians. I really liked reading the stories in a novel!

The church in Philippi did have problems, disagreements and arguments, (like every church) however I liked the way that it was handled in the book. Paul asked them to put their differences aside, and love one another- even if they didn't always see eye to eye.

This book is about first-century Christians, learning how to become like Jesus Christ and how to love and get along with one another. It's a story of how God can use everyone- poor, rich, slaves, doctors, and common people to do His work. 

"God Only Knows" by For King and Country

The message in this song is something I think a lot of us need to hear. "God Only Knows" is a song about how even if others don't know what you're going through, there is One that does know what you're going through. God knows. God knows the real you. God loves you and cares about you so much. He alone knows what you're going through. When nobody else understands, He does. I hope you remember that whenever you go through something difficult, Jesus understands. Here's the lyrics:

Wide awake while the world is sound asleepin' 

Too afraid of what might show up while your dreamin'

Nobody, nobody, nobody sees you

Nobody, nobody, nobody would believe you

Every day you try to pick up all the pieces 

All the memories, they somehow never leave you

Nobody, nobody, nobody sees you

Nobody, nobody, nobody would believe you

God only knows what you've been through

God only knows what they say about you

God only knows how it's killing you

But there's a kind of love only God knows
God only knows what you've been through 
God only knows what they say about you
God only knows the real you
But there's a kind of love that only God knows

There's a kind of love that

There's a kind of love

You keep a cover over every single secret

So afraid if someone saw them they would leave

Somebody, somebody, somebody sees you

Somebody, somebody, somebody will never leave you

God only knows where to find you
God only knows how to break through
God only knows the real you

But there's a kind of love that God only knows

A Question of Honor Book Review

Synopsis

A man. A child. A war. 

When German soldiers invade France during World War II, young Joyanna's perfect world is shattered. In the hands of those who hate her, she battles to comprehend why people can be so ruthless and cold toward those whom they have never met.

David Sullivan, pilot in the Royal Air Force, was certain he would never hate, but a painful loss forces him to either reconsider or do the inconceivable-forgive.  He is suddenly challenged by the realization that doing God's will is not easy, but most important. With the lives of freedom-fighters relying on him, he must learn the difficult lesson that he is not in control, but merely one who must surrender his heart of obedience to One greater. 

A sudden turn of events lands Joyanna and David in the same country-but for far different reasons. When their paths cross, David finds he must make a decision that will affect them both for the rest of their lives.

Will he choose vengeance, or will he let his life be ruled by a higher standard? 

A standard of Honor. 

My Review

This book is the first book of Jesseca Wheaton's Questions of War Series. This book was incredible!!! The faith that was woven throughout the whole book was wonderful. The struggles the characters had were so real. I loved the theme of forgiveness.

Joyanna was so sweet and adorable. Or shall I say feisty? ;) In some ways, Joyanna reminds me of myself as a little girl. Her child-like faith was really special. 

David. He is steady, usually calm, and more on the quiet side. David's story is a story of forgiveness. He struggled to forgive, and to let go of the anger and hatred he had in his heart. With God's help, he is able to forgive.

Micah and Gil were a lot a like. Gil teased almost all the time. Micah was more serious, but he did have a sense of humor. I enjoyed reading their stories, even though Gil's was heartbreaking.

Lily and Elaine were really sweet too. Lily was such a strong young woman, even after everything that happened. Her strength and forgiveness towards those who hurt her was beautiful.

I loved the relationship between Gil and David. They were best friends, and did everything together. It was fun to read the scenes between those two. ;)

This book was very well written. I love the way Jesseca Wheaton writes. She is such a talented author, and you all should check her books out! 5/5 stars!

The Zion Chronicles Series Review

This is a book series I read this summer, and loved them! I thought I'd do a post on the whole series because the books are basically one continuous story.

   

About the books:

The Zion Chronicles series covers the events surrounding Israel's statehood in 1948. Each book vividly portrays the intense struggle of the Jewish people in the aftermath of the Holocaust and the forces, within and without, which engulf the Middle East in conflict and controversy even today. 

Will there ever be peace in Zion?  The Jewish people wonder as they stream into the British Mandate of Palestine after the devastation of World War II. What has happened to God's promises to their nation? 

Review 

I loved this book series! I really enjoy reading books from this time frame. 

I enjoyed the setting of the book series. It is set in Israel, 1947-1948. Learning about Israel becoming a nation was awesome! 

Ellie was a fun character. She grew up in a wealthy family, sheltered from the world until she moved to Jerusalem as a photojournalist. As Ellie sees what is going on in Jerusalem, she has to examine her own heart and discover who God is and what matters most in life. She's probably my favorite character. She seemed to almost always be in the middle of the action, taking pictures of the event. :)

Moshe. Well, at first I wasn't sure what to think of him. ;) However, as I got to know him in the book, he was a character I really enjoyed. His willingness to give his life for his people was amazing. 

Yacov, a little Jewish boy, with his dog Shaul, were really sweet. Yacov was so brave, and Shaul was so smart and protective of Yacov. I savored their side of the story. :)

Rachel, a girl rescued from a Nazis concentration camp, her story was heartbreaking. She had so much inner hurt and anger to deal with. She needed healing. Through her Messiah, Yeshua, she finds that healing.

David was probably one of my favorite characters. He had an inner struggle to figure out if his life had any meaning. He discovers that his life has meaning- in God. I liked seeing how he grew in his faith and life purpose throughout the whole series. 

Overall, this book series was fascinating! There were many characters and sub-plots, which was intriguing. God was evident in this book, which is something I really appreciate in a book. 

I give this book series 5/5 stars! 

"Unusual" by Francesca Battistelli

This song is not a recently released song, but I really needed this song when I was struggling with being myself. (see post here for details) This song talks about how all of us are unique and unusual- and we should be okay with being different. Don't be afraid to be unusual, and to stand up for Jesus! Here's the lyrics:

Everybody laughed at you

For doing what you're supposed to do

Standing up for what is true

Got your feelings hurt tonight

You must be doing something right

You're so unusual

I think you're beautiful

You're so unusual

Gray is now the status quo

Black and white's not in you know

You're the zebra in the pony show

You wear your faith just like a light

I'd say you're doing something right

Standing up for Jesus' Name

Just let them call you strange

I call you brave, unique and set apart

A master piece, a work of art

Living out what you believe

Being who you're made to be

I love to see the way that you are so

Unusual 

I think you're beautiful

You're so unusual

Oh, for heaven's sake

You're unafraid and unashamed

You're so unusual

"It Will Be Okay" by Lysa TerKeurst

This book has a great message. I know it's a story picture book, but I think everybody should read this book. ;)

Synopsis

In a dusty shed, on a rickety shelf, hidden in a cozy packet, lived a tiny seed. 

Day after day, Little Seed watched as the Farmer came into the shed. The Farmer's strong hand would reach into the packet, and He would say, "I have a good plan for you," each time He selected a seed. 

Little Seed knew the Farmer was good and kind, but he did not want to leave his home. 

Little Seed liked living inside the cozy packet on the rickety shelf in the Farmer's dusty shed.

He did not want to go.

Review 

The age range for this book is baby to 100! ;) I think everybody should read this book. It is about a lonely Little Fox, and Little Fox meets Little Seed in the seed packet. They become really good friends. 

Growing up brings changes and sometimes fear. Little Seed and Little Fox are facing fears, changes, and brand new things. 

They discover that God is with them and will help them get through the rough times. God is like the Farmer. The Farmer always tells the Little Seed, "It will be okay." Another phrase I like is "...the Farmer is good, and the Farmer is kind, and He was always watching over them." 

What I really enjoyed about this book was the message in it. There are things in life that we don't want to do, we don't like it, or it's change. However, God wants to lead us towards something new. Even if it doesn't seem good at the time, His plans are always good.

In the end, "it will be okay." :)

Be Yourself

from Pinterest 

Being yourself. I think this is a very important topic, especially for tweens and teens.

Often in our culture today, we seem to get the impression to conform to what others think. We want to be "cool" or "normal". We often want to be like most other teens. We want to dress like they do, read what they do, act like they do, watch what they do- the list goes on and on.

I myself, dealt with some of this in my late tween and early teen years. I was afraid to stand out, to be different.

One day, it finally dawned on me what I was doing, and I started being myself.

I could hardly believe how changed I felt. I was real with people- I showed the real me. :) Being yourself is an awesome feeling. I personally felt let out of a cage- free! I felt like I could breathe again, instead of feeling stifled.

I am no longer afraid to be who I am, who God created me to be. No two people are the same- we're all different. God has shown me and is showing me who He says I am. I am chosen, I am not forsaken, I am His, I am loved by the Creator of the universe.

It was a few years ago, that this all happened, and I cannot even begin to express how awesome it's been to just be myself. I am okay with standing out. (I sometimes even enjoy standing out) ;) As Believers in Jesus, we are called to stand out, to be different. We are in the world but not of it.

Leviticus 20:24 says, "I am Adonai your God, who has set you apart from the peoples." (TLV) We are called to be set apart- not like the world. Set apart, for our Savior, who gave everything for you. For me.

I pray this post reaches someone who needed to hear this.

Be yourself. Be who you were meant to be, who God called you to be. Don't care what other people think of you. God cherishes you for who you are. You're set apart for Yeshua! He loves you the way you are. Be you. Be real.

Enjoy the Little Things

Enjoying the little things. This is something I've been trying to remember to do lately. June is already over, we're already into July! Time goes by so fast. (especially summer) ;)

Sometimes, especially as we grow up, (or get older), we get busy, and we lose track of all the little blessings God sends us in our lives. I've noticed in my own life, when I get busy with school, life, etc., I lose track of what matters most. Like when your brother draws you the most adorable picture, your sister leaves a note on your nightstand, a favorite flower in bloom- whatever is special to you. We often seem to overlook or ignore these special moments.

God gives us blessings, and often times they're little blessings. Don't lose these moments. You'll never get them back. Instead of worrying and stressing, focus on the good things. The special things, the meaningful things. I don't want to look back and realize I wasted the precious moments.

Don't let life pass you by. Sometimes when life gets overwhelming, we just push ourselves to get through the day, week, month, even year. What I've noticed is when I let this happen, I look back and think, Oh, if only I had enjoyed the moment! Life goes way to fast- don't lose it, don't waste it. Focus on what matters most.


Take a moment and count your many blessings today. :)