Kathy Ide

The title of the book made me want to really read this book. Who wouldn't want joy in their life? I have a hard time finding it sometimes but this book is perfect to encourage everyone that joy is there and we can all have it freely. The very first chapter was so good I reread it. How many of us wish we looked different, had a better house or just envied other women because they looked happy? We forget to be content with what we have and find joy in what God has given us. I am blessed to have three amazing sons. They are each different but boy do they love their mom. I am thankful everyday for them. There was a time I wasn't sure I wanted to be a mother. My childhood was horrible and I didn't think I knew how to be a good mom. Funny thing is, God showed me how to love my sons unconditionally and encouraged me to show them the same kind of love.

I enjoyed the story of the woman who was about to get married. She finds out her fiance doesn't want children and the engagement is broken. She flies to Haiti during the time it was suppose to be her honeymoon. As she stayed at the orphanage she realized that God had answered her prayer. She had the children she desired but not the way she thought it would happen. I always wanted to be a teacher but never had the chance to go to college. Years later I found myself as the Children's Pastor of the church. I couldn't wait to be with them every Sunday morning and Wednesday night. Those children gave me such joy. I suddenly realized that my desire to teach had happened. I was a teacher to many not just the small classroom I thought I would have. God helps us find joy in ways we don't expect. In Psalm 37:4 it says, " Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart." He may not answer our prayers the way we want, but He does answer them and it turns out better than we could imagine.

Each story in the book is a wonderful reminder of what a joy it is to be a mom. It may not always be fun but it is always rewarding. I didn't have a relationship with my mom, but I am thankful that I have a God who has shown me how to be a mom. I count everyday as joy and this book is one that will be encouraging for women. I appreciate the different women who contributed to the book and their willingness to share their story.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (lisätietoja)

What a wonderful collection of stories to remind us that we are loved. Each author has written from their heart and shares wonderful nuggets of encouragement, hope and contentment. I was going to pick out a few of the stories that I really liked, but I realized I loved them all. They spoke to me in different ways that reminded me that there are people out there who feel unloved. Have you ever felt that way?

Valentine’s Day just passed and I’m glad it is over. I break inside every year when that holiday comes round. There are many hurting people who have to deal with loneliness on that day. I pray that I will remember next year to reach out to someone and let them know they are loved. There is one story that I really thought touched on love in a special way. It was about a young girl not having money to buy Valentine’s cards for her class. Oh how my heart went out to her. We sometimes forget even the smallest thing is important to others. We can show our love by sending a card to someone just to let them know they are loved. What better way to show love than to reach out to someone who needs to know they aren’t alone.

Relationships are a lot of work and sometimes we need to learn to compromise. How many times have you and your spouse stopped talking to each other over a silly little fight? Our pride gets in the way and neither one wants to give in. One of the hardest things to do is ask for forgiveness. When we soften our hearts and prefer one another, the relationship becomes easier and love prevails. I loved the ending of the book where it talks about celebrating Valentine’s Day year round. Buy someone behind you in line a cup of coffee, call someone you haven’t talked to in awhile just to say hi. Tell your children how special they are and how proud you are of them. Take a little extra time and visit someone who lives alone. There are many ways to show love throughout the year. I’m glad I read this book and appreciate how it reminds me to not take things for granted. The greatest gift we can receive is the gift that God loves us and with that gift we can share his love with others.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (lisätietoja)