Apologia Educational Ministries, Inc. is a company I’ve heard great things about for a couple of years now. They offer science curriculum, online courses, conferences, Christian books, and other resources for the Christian family. When I read about the book we would be reviewing, I was excited to dive into it.
Journeys of Faithfulness, is a wonderful book for mothers and daughters. Sarah Clarkson weaves beautiful stories together about five well known women of the bible: Mary and Martha, Mary, Mother of Jesus, Esther, and Ruth. She has such a way with words making you feel like you are there experiencing their lives with them. I find these women inspirational. Strong, godly, bold, weak, authentic. These are just some of the words that come to mind.
Each story is broken into three parts, and at the end of each part, Sarah includes a devotional, scriptures and questions to study, and space for journaling your thoughts. Since my daughter (16) and I are both reading this book at the same time (and totally sharing nicely. Ahem.), we’re doing the study and journaling parts in our own journals. Sometimes we compare notes on how the other answered a question, or we’ll talk about the story, but mostly, we’re using this book independently.
Is it biblically accurate? No, but it’s not meant to be. The stories are fictional intended to draw us into the lives of these remarkable women. Sarah invites us to glimpse what life might have been like, and how these women might have felt. We see their pain, frustrations, strength, and godliness as they face what life brings.
Journeys of Faithfulness has 232 pages, and is recommended for ages 12 and up (adults will love this, too). The story segments sweep you along making each section a fairly quick read. The bible reading, and questions don’t take long either, but I would encourage you to spend a little time thinking about what you’ve read. Think about these women, and their challenges. Think about how they are similar to you in some ways. Different in others. Meditate on the Word as you read it.
The book is well worth the $13.00, and you can read a sample chapter plus the table of contents on the website. Plus, I have a copy you can win! No, you can’t have mine. Apologia sent me an extra copy, and now I can bless one of you. This giveaway is for US readers only, and will be open for one week. Don’t forget my other giveaways: Women of Justice series, the Swamp Robber CD set, the Bird Nest Necklace, and the set of children’s books: God Loves Me More Than That and God Gave Us Heaven.
Disclosure: I received this free book to review. All information was correct to the best of my knowledge at the time this review was written. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. You can read my full disclosure policy here.
Wendy says
Right now I am reading Abba’s Child by Brennan Manning and Grace for the Good Girl by Emily Freeman and am really enjoying both of them.
Audra Marie says
Grace for the Good Girl is on my to read list. 🙂 Thanks for visiting, Wendy. 🙂
Mrs. Sarah Coller says
I want this one!! 🙂
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Audra Marie says
I thought you might. It’s by Sally Clarkson’s daughter. I love reading Sally’s writing. 🙂
Mrs. Sarah Coller says
Oh, woops, I left a comment before reading what I was supposed to comment about..hee hee 🙂
Ok, so, favorite “Bibley Books”… I love Beverly Lewis’ Amish books. She is the master at weaving the Amish lifestyle with Biblical truths—pointing out things in the Amish belief system that are funky and unBiblical without sacrificing the integrity and goodness of other parts of their lives. Wonderful. Love her. Other than Cindy Woodsmall, she is the only author I’ve found who actually knows what she’s talking about when it comes to authentic Amishness…Ha! 😉
Also love Francine Rivers’ Mark of the Lion series…oldie but a goodie.
Nonfiction…love Jennie Chancey and Stacy McDonald’s Passionate Homemakers Desperate for God and anything else found on Vision Forum.
Mrs. Sarah Coller recently posted:Apple Cider Beef Stew
Audra Marie says
Hmmm – new book ideas. 🙂
Deb Faunce says
Love to win this!
Audra Marie says
What are some of your favorite books, Deb?
Lynden Blossom says
I have most recently enjoyed several by Francine Rivers (audioboooks!). I enjoy Debbie Macomber’s books (audiobooks!). I look forward to reading THIS one! ;-}
Lynden
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Audra Marie says
I haven’t read or listened to any of those, Lynden. I’ll have to check them out. 🙂
Cheri Swalwell says
I’m always looking for something for my daughter and I to share. Thanks for this opportunity. Looks like a great devotional.
Audra Marie says
It’s fun to share a good book with our girls. 🙂
(((((HUGS))))) sandi says
OH would I love to win this!!! Thanks for such great giveaways, and *HAPPY BIRTHDAY!* 🙂
Audra Marie says
It’s a neat book. Love her writing. 🙂 Thank you for the Happy Birthday! 🙂
Jalynn Patterson says
I have been reading a lot of Cindy Woodsmall lately. I love Amish fiction.
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Audra Marie says
I enjoy Amish fiction, too. 🙂
Chrystiana Silva says
I’m really enjoying this one mum. 🙂