They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. ~Acts 2:42
For those of you who have followed my blog for a while, you know that I don't do many book reviews. That is because an author's words and writing style must sincerely resonate in my heart before I can, in good conscience, recommend a book to others, knowing they are in for a rewarding read.
Cheryl E. Smith's latest book, Homespun Devotions - Volume One, more than meets that criteria. It goes above and beyond!
This collection of devotional readings is penned from Cheryl's own life experiences with family, friend, colleagues, and most importantly, how her love for the Lord colors all her relationships. Her down-to-earth, personal recollections are inspiring and insightful, and when you read them, you feel like you are in the presence of a long-time friend, who is always glad to see you, and ever willing to open her heart to you over a cup of coffee and honest conversation.
How did Cheryl come to write this book? I'll let her explain in her own words:
When I began blogging, my dream was to write a book called Homespun Devotions. Over the years, I have come to long for the Dream Giver more than the dream. The publishing of this book is the Dream Giver handing me my dream.
If you're searching for the perfect devotional book to add to your daily study of God's Word, look no further than this perfect gem. Best of all, Cheryl is giving a copy of Homespun Devotions away to one lucky person who leaves a comment here on Meditations of My Heart. Such a deal!
Comments qualifying for the give-away must be submitted here no later than Tuesday, September 27th. I will announce the winner on the following Friday.
My hope and prayer for all of you who don't win the drawing is that you will order Cheryl's book, one for yourself, and one to give to a friend. It is guaranteed to be a gift they will cherish.
About the Author -
Cheryl E. Smith is the author of the book Biblical Minimalism: Following Jesus from a Life of Abundance to a More Abundant Life. She blogs at www.Biblical Minimalism.com, where she writes about minimalism from a Biblical perspective, and www.HomespunDevotions.com, where she writes devotionals and conducts "Inner Views." She loves to spend time with her husband and son in the mountains, sing and play bluegrass music, and write.
Great book review, Martha. Because of postage costs, should I qualify for the book, please pass it on to someone more worthy than me.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Of course, you are worthy, Victor. I'll check with Cheryl if that should happen and let her decide how to handle it.
DeleteLove and blessings!
It's so much fun to read each other's reviews of Cheryl's wonderful book! I love that we can join in the party to get the word out. I am truly enjoying her pages during many of my quiet times this month.
ReplyDeleteI'm so enjoying them, too, Linda; it's hard to just be satisfied in reading one entry per day, they are just that good. I, too, am so grateful to be part of Cheryl's promotional team!
DeleteLove and blessings!
Thanks for the review Martha. As I told Linda, I will refrain from entering so another person may have a chance.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Bill, I will keep that in mind when we draw names.
DeleteLove and blessings!
Dearest Martha Jane,
ReplyDeleteKudos to Cheryl E. Smith for being able to write this book which ranks #59 in Christian Stewardship (Books); #175 in Ethics in Christian Theology; #285 in Jesus, the Gospels & Acts (Books)
A screenshot of these achievements would have helped your readers.
Hugs,
Mariette
You have helped my readers out by simply posting these stats, Mariette, and it's much appreciated! Cheryl's rankings are most impressive and well deserved.
DeleteLove and blessings!
She no doubt deserved them as they don't come easily...💞
DeleteIndeed, she does!
DeleteOh, what a wonderful idea! So great that this new devotional book will be made available to one of your readers/friends! The devotional book looks so warm and welcoming, like visiting with a good friend and sharing God's Word with one another over a cup of tea or coffee. I pray in advance for whomever the recipient might be, that it would bless her life and enrich her soul and spirit with God's grace, wisdom and love. Thank you for this opportunity!
ReplyDeleteYou are so welcome, Pamela! I can't wait to see who actually wins the book, but I hope that if others don't, they won't hesitate to order Cheryl's lovely devotional. Her words warm you from the inside out!
DeleteLove and blessings!
Dear, sweet Martha! Your kind words have warmed my heart and brought so much encouragement to me today. I am humbled and so very blessed. Sending much love and gratitude to you today! I would love to include Victor in the giveaway, if he is interested. He has been a dear friend and encouragement to me for years.
ReplyDeleteOh, yes, Cheryl, if you don't mind paying the extra postage, Victor should absolutely be included in this giveaway! He is such a wonderful writer himself, and his posts give us both humor and inspiration always.
DeleteIt was my pleasure to feature your marvelous book here, my friend. Danny did share it on Facebook for us.
Love and blessings!
Homespun Devotions sounds like a great way to celebrate Jesus in our lives each day! Thank you for entering me in the drawing! I definitely trust your reviews, Martha! xo
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to know you trust my reviews, dear Terri! Yes, Cheryl helps us to celebrate Jesus in every moment of our daily lives with her inspirational words. Best of luck in winning!
DeleteLove and blessings!
Sounds like a comforting and down-to-earth book to read. Will be adding it to my list. Thanks for the introduction Ms. Martha.
ReplyDeleteCheryl is definitely an author you want to know through her books, J. D. Do add it to your list to order just in case you aren't the lucky winner. I'll bet Miss Diane will love it, too!
DeleteLove and blessings!
Anyone who has attempted to write a book has to admire this accomplishment. Thank you for the recommendation.
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Yes, indeed, Lulu.
DeleteLove and blessings!
I'm thinking this would make a wonderful stocking stuffer!
ReplyDeleteIt would be an excellent stocking stuffer, Myra!
DeleteLove and blessings!
Hey Martha, I like how you have strict boundaries on giving recommendations, me too! Homespun Devotions sounds like a great devotional. I love how Cheryl says, "Over the years, I have come to long for the Dream Giver more than the dream. The publishing of this book is the Dream Giver handing me my dream." Amen!
ReplyDeleteThis is truly a marvelous book, Karen, and I'm glad to know you feel the same way about book recommendations as I do. Hoping that even if you don't win the drawing, you will be convinced to order Cheryl's book. Her Biblical Minimalism is also a stellar read.
DeleteLove and blessings!
Sounds wonderful my friend.
ReplyDeleteIt truly is a gem of a book, Regine.
DeleteLove and blessings!