Word-Filled Women's Ministry by Gloria Furman and Kathleen B. Neilson, Editors

I have read the past few books by Gloria Furman on motherhood and the Gospel and have appreciated her encouragement and how she points mothers back to the Gospel and what truly matters. I also saw her at the Women's Gospel Coalition Conference and was so excited to see someone who has helped shape my view of motherhood. I also saw Kathleen Neilson at the conference, too, and heard her heart as she spoke. When I saw this book about Women's ministry, I was excited to read the thoughts of so many godly women who have walked closely with the Lord.

I appreciated the honesty in this book, as well as the encouragement. Each chapter is written by one or two other ladies. The Gospel is the central theme of this book and it clearly shows how big of a responsibility that women have in discipleship, as well as the role women play in the church.

I was challenged as I considered how my own church views Women's ministry and how so many Women's ministries are all about activities and other things besides investing in the lives of the women with the reminder that eternity is at stake for every person. Intentionality is missing in today's culture and in many of our churches. As I finished this book, a sense of urgency and longing filled my heart as I began to see what a privilege we women have in serving in our church. My favorite chapter was the chapter on the younger women and older women in a mentorship and being disciplined. They were beautiful letters included into hat chapter. I also enjoyed the personal stories of people who are living out the Gospel and fulfilling the role that God had place them in, and doing it joyfully and diligently.

Any woman in church, or any woman who is leading a Women's ministry, should definitely read this book. There is something for every woman within the pages of this book.

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I received this book free from Crossway Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.



Treasuring Christ When Your Hands are Full by Gloria Furman

Gloria Furman is probably in the top 2 of my favorite authors on motherhood.  I'm drawn to the authors who don't look at motherhood as a chore, but looks to the Scriptures as a blessing.  Everyone knows motherhood is hard.  However, keeping the eternal focus is a lot harder and is where I'd say most moms need encouragement.  I know I do!

I had my journal beside me while I was reading this book.  There were so many things in it that I wanted to be sure to write down, so when I was discouraged, I could find it quickly.  I saw that Crossway is offering a free study guide along with this book. I downloaded it, but haven't done it, yet.  I really want to, though.

I think this would be a perfect women's group book.  What mother doesn't need to be reminded of the Gospel and how it relates to parenting and the Gospel?!  With summer coming up and the kids around more than normal, I'd dare say this release is perfect timing.

The book itself is very short and the chapters are short. I got to the end and wanted more!  I love how everything points to Christ.  When I finished reading a chapter, all I wanted to do was dive into God's Word even more. 

If you're looking for a step-by-step checklist parenting book, this isn't what you're looking for.  However, I think once you are reminded of the Gospel in parenting, you'll find you don't need a checklist.  Without your heart centered on Christ, you can't expect the same from your child's.  Letting God change you and remind you of your focus helps in those mundane, everyday tasks that are quite often challenging and overwhelming.

I can't wait for another book by Gloria.  Until then, I guess I'll just have to read her blog!

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I received this book free from Crossway Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Glimpses of Grace by Gloria Furman

This book came at the perfect time for me.  It was hard for me to wait to read this book because the cover is absolutely beautiful.  I love the cover and it was relaxing and inspiring to just look at the cover!

Glimpses of Grace helped put my homemaking into perspective.  I struggle at times with seeing God as part of my full day in midst of the mundane chores.  I know He's there and active, but I loose sight of Him when I'm doing things like dishes and the laundry.  I focus on myself and forget to focus on other and have been guilty of wondering "when's my turn."

This book is very biblical and encouraging, yet doesn't water down the gospel and say that it's okay to continue on the path that we are on, whether it's getting angry over the little things or making idols out of our houses.  I really like John Piper and Tim Keller, so I was won over when their quotes were used in this book, too!

I have already recommended this book to several mothers that I know who are really struggling through the mundane with little children.  It was such an encouragement to me and I knew it would be for them, as well.  This would be the perfect gift to give a young mom who feels like she's struggling.

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I received this book free from Crossway in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.