Interview with the authors of "Unexpected Blessings" (devo book)

Interview with the authors of 

“Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details”

Question #1: How did you and your co-authors meet?

Deborah: In Spring 2024, we formed a small Zoom-based writers' mastermind to help each other flourish. We were previously meeting via Facebook chat that Theresa set up after we had all been her Beta Readers for her Bible Study, “Posture of Victory.” Plus, we are all Compel Pro Group Leaders. Soon, God led us to write something much bigger than we planned with our first book, “Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best”, and now our newest book, “Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details.” We are five writers in five different states with a God-sized project who said yes. Only God could orchestrate five writers from five different states coming together to create this devotional book for our readers. All glory to Him!

Question #2: What inspired you to collaborate with your author friends and write this devotional book? Share the story.

Theresa: This is such a fun story because it really was all God. None of us could have orchestrated it with a premeditated plan and watched it unfold so seamlessly. It began as a simple idea among five writers to create a downloadable resource for readers called Unexpected Blessings: 30 Days of Discovering God’s Best. It was meant to be a small offering of encouragement to our community. On one of our Zoom calls, one of us suggested, “What if we took this all the way?” The idea was to write ten additional devotions, two from each of us, and turn that online resource into a 40-day printed devotional. The downloadable resource was released in November, and we spent December writing the extra devotions. Then we spent January preparing the manuscript for publication. The book was released just before Lent in 2025. Even before that first book was published, we sensed God nudging us toward a second one. What began as a small step of obedience became a series of little “yeses,” growing into something we could not have planned better ourselves.

Question #3: What was the most challenging aspect of collaborating to write this book? Explain how you overcame that challenge.

Nichole: So much of this project felt seamless. We shared a Google Drive folder to upload all our devotions and set deadlines to keep ourselves on track. It’s hard to say there were many challenges! Mostly, what was challenging is what is challenging with just about any writing project—editing the final manuscript. It was a joint effort of Traci checking formatting, Theresa checking grammar, spelling, and sentence structure, each of us fixing our own edits, and then I put the final manuscript into a form that could be uploaded and published. We were all working from a distance; none of us is close enough to each other to easily meet in person. So, a lot of communication was through group text. We had to be open to feedback from one another and flexible about how each of us envisioned the final product.

Question #4: In what ways do you hope your readers will be impacted by your message?

Susan: We want our readers to know that, whether it is the everyday struggles and disappointments we often encounter or the hard challenges we face, we are never the only ones who battle them. The enemy used to push me into a corner with the lie that I am the only one who has to battle what I have walked through. But whether it's struggling with doubt, fear, or even the lows from a bad day, we all go through the same things. And because we serve a faithful God, we never go through anything that we can’t overcome or walk through in the power and strength of the Holy Spirit. We truly serve a God who can turn everything we go through into our good and His glory.

Question #5: Is this the second book in a series of “Unexpected Blessings” or can this devo be read as standalone? Please explain.

Traci: While this book, Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details, is the second in our Unexpected Blessings series, it can also be read as a standalone devotional, just like our first book, Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best. Our goal for this series is for each book to stand on its own while helping readers recognize God’s extraordinary blessings and trust Him in the details of their everyday lives.

Question #6: In this devo book, you teach readers to trust God no matter how overwhelmed they feel. How have you learned to trust God when you feel overwhelmed by the demands of daily life?

Traci: I used to let overwhelming circumstances and the demands of daily life define me, and as a result, I lived with constant worry and intense anxiety. For many years, I missed out on the abundant life Jesus Christ came to give. Don’t get me wrong—life is filled with real concerns and overwhelming emotions, but God’s Word reminds us in 1 Peter 5:7 to cast our anxieties on Him. So what does that look like in my life? I picture myself laying down the pressures of daily life—schedules, work, family needs, and ministry—along with the emotions that come from them, at the foot of the Cross. Because of how I lived in the past, I know what it feels like to live under that kind of weight. Now, I choose to trust God because I know that is the only way I can live in true freedom and peace in the midst of everyday demands. God’s desire for us as His children is to live with hearts that trust Him and fully depend on Him.

Nichole: Overwhelm—in the negative sense—is a product of a fallen world. Our Heavenly Father doesn’t want us in that state. Whenever I start to feel like life’s pressures are overwhelming me, I know I need to go back to Jesus and ask Him to remove the yoke I’ve taken on myself. He promises that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. We take on a burden that we were never meant to shoulder. Daily immersion in the Word and constant communication with the Father help me keep things in perspective and lessen the overwhelm that life’s demands bring.

Question #7: What would you say to someone who feels like they’re experiencing a difficult time when God isn’t answering their prayers, and they feel like their delayed plans and dashed dreams feel too insignificant to matter? Explain how we can trust God because it matters to Him.

Susan: It took me years to learn that just because God doesn’t answer the way I want doesn’t mean I don’t matter or that I've been forgotten. Sometimes God is working more for my good through not answering my specific prayers or not bringing my personal desires to fruition. I often learn and grow spiritually more when He allows me to wait and endure delays. It is then that He teaches me much-needed lessons, such as perseverance, temperance, long suffering, and patience. It is also during the long waits that I often feel I don’t matter, that God is teaching me how to draw closer to Him.

Theresa: This is something I’ve experienced many times, and I know we all do at different points in our lives. What I’ve learned is that often what feels like a delay is God working behind the scenes. It’s a time of preparation, a season where God invites us to lean in and trust Him more deeply. It reminds me of Traci’s devotion on the theme of blooming where you are planted in “The Unexpected Blessing of a Broken Plaque.” Sometimes God invites us to grow deeper roots during those dismal seasons so that something beautiful can bloom in His perfect timing. If you’re feeling this way now, my encouragement is to be faithful with what God has placed in your hands today and to trust that He has something in store for you beyond your imagination if you don’t give up. So keep going!

Question #8: Share a testimony from your life when God showed you that He cares about your quiet struggles and He wants to alleviate what’s weighing heavy on your heart.

Deborah: Just recently, I was feeling put together on the outside yet falling apart on the inside. As a childless older woman, I was having a hard time fitting in at our church full of young families. I prayed, “Help me Jesus,” and He brought me a new friend to share my fears and burden with. Soon, I felt the comfort and peace of Jesus and rejoiced in my beautiful church family. I know I am not the only one feeling this way. It’s so easy, though, to think everyone else has got it together when maybe we’re all feeling a little messy inside. The beautiful truth is Jesus didn’t come for the perfect woman, He came for the messy and brokenhearted ones too.

Traci: One memory that comes to mind is a season when I quietly struggled with Imposter Syndrome. I felt completely unqualified for an opportunity God had given me, and the weight of doubt brought me to tears. When I shared my struggle with my son and later with a friend, God met me through their prayer and encouragement, easing the heaviness in my heart and giving me the strength to move forward. That moment taught me that God not only sees our silent struggles but also cares deeply about them, often providing comfort, strength, and peace in very personal ways. I actually wrote about this testimony in our first book in the series, Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best.

Question #9: I love how each of you as authors shared honest reflections from your real-life experiences over the years, in this devo book! What did God teach you or reveal to you during this process of sharing your stories?

Susan: Most of the time, when I write and share, it is during my own struggles and challenges. One of the greatest lessons I have learned from sharing my personal stories and lessons God is teaching me is that the more I share encouragement with others, the more I feel encouraged. Writing the devotions for this book has also taught me to be more mindful of looking for God’s blessings, especially in the ordinary day-to-day things. It is so easy to go through your day with your mind on completing tasks and to-do lists that we can forget to look up to see what God is doing all around us. Writing these devotions has made me more mindful to ask God to reveal Himself to me and help me to encounter His goodness.

Theresa: Sharing these real-life experiences has given us the chance to be honest and transparent and to reveal the transformative work of God through them. So many moments could have gone unnoticed, yet God is truly in the details. The more we look for Him, the more we see Him at work. That has certainly been true for me throughout the process of writing these devotions.

Question #10: Let’s end with a fun question! What is your favorite beverage, coffee or tea to sip in the springtime? Take turns answering this question, please, and explain what makes that favorite treat special to you.

Theresa: The hardest question yet! After my first cup of coffee in the morning, I’m a hot tea drinker. Mint is my go-to, but if I can handle a little caffeine later in the day, the Earl Grey London Fog beverage Nichole describes below is my go-to. My version is tea, honey, and a little cream–the same way I drink my coffee. Springtime allows for hot drinks around here, as winter can last through April and even into May some years.

Susan: I am from the south and grew up drinking iced tea. There is nothing more relaxing to me than sitting on my porch swing with a good book, sipping on my favorite tea. It is even more special after a long, cold winter to get that first burst of warmer spring weather to sit outside. My favorite teas are blackberry and strawberry.

Traci: Growing up in the Midwest, I loved drinking pop. A lot of people have no idea what I mean when I say that word. But in southern Ohio, where I’m from, “pop” is what we call any carbonated soft drink, no matter the flavor—cola, lemon-lime, orange, grape, ginger ale, and more. It’s what some people call “soda” or “Coke,” depending on where they live. While I don’t drink much pop anymore because I don’t love the sugar and calories in regular, and I can’t stand the taste of diet, I still enjoy sipping an ice-cold Pepsi on my porch every now and then as the weather warms up. It feels like a little springtime treat to me. In fact, my neighbor always has one cold and ready for me whenever I go over to visit her.

Deborah: I love making mason jars full of PG Tips iced tea. There is something about letting it brew and then later adding ice cubes. I don’t add anything else to it. It’s perfect to sip as my afternoon goes by, as the days warm with a book on the deck.

Nichole: I love Earl Grey tea anytime of year, especially when I make it into a London Fog (tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup). I prefer hot instead of iced year-round. I live in the Midwest, so it stays cool and rainy through the Spring. Sitting on my covered porch with a cup of hot tea is high-end cozy for me.

Thanks for the interview, ladies! God bless you and your writing ministry.

~*~
Author Bio for Deborah Rutherford:

Deborah's journey is one of following a deeper calling. She began her career in the film & television industry, where she was an Emmy Award-winning Makeup Artist. 

Making a significant transition, she set aside her professional brushes to pick up a pen and a mic. She now shares her voice as an Author, Poet, and engaging Podcaster.

She is the founder of the Behold-Her Beauty Podcast and Blog and one of the authors of the devotional Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best. Her forthcoming poetry collection, Prodigal Daughter: Poems of Light for the Lost Ones, showcases her literary depth, which has also been recognized in journals like The Way Back to Ourselves Literary Journal, Vessels of Light Literary Journal, and Calla Press Literary Journal.

At heart, Deborah loves Jesus, being Don's wife, singing old hymns, and finding peace on nature walks under the Georgia pines.

You can follow her on Substack, Instagram, and at www.deborahrutherford.com.

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Author Bio for Theresa Miller:

Theresa is adventurous at heart and dedicated to pursuing spiritual, mental, and emotional healing for the betterment of future generations. 

Originally from the wooded East, Theresa now resides in the wide-open spaces of
Wyoming, nestled near the Big Horn Mountains. She cherishes her role as a wife to Rob and mother to their four children.

Weaving words has been her creative outlet since childhood, bringing clarity to life’s complexities. Theresa is the author of the Bible study, The Posture of Victory: Finding True Peace amidst Our Everyday Battles.

She actively serves in women’s ministries as a Bible teacher and a MomCo Mentor in her community. She co-founded Dandelions, Potholes, & Wrinkles and The Sisters on Purpose Podcast. In addition to guest appearing on several podcasts and blogs, she has been published in Calla Press Literary Journal, Moms Ezine, (in)courage, and various other publications.

You can find Theresa encouraging women to dig deeper to reach higher in their faith and calling on Instagram and Facebook @theresammillerauthor and on the podcast she hosts with her sisters, The Sisters on Purpose Podcast.

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Author Bio for Traci Shnider:

Traci is a passionate encourager, sharing hope and inspiration drawn from her journey of faith and resilience in the face of adversity. Her mission is to help others experience true freedom by deeply rooting their lives in Jesus, growing in His grace, and blooming into their God-given purpose. 

As a motivational speaker, Traci inspires women at Christian conferences and events, empowering them to walk boldly in faith. She is a co-author of the devotional, Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best and she’s been featured in Renew Your Mind: 40 Days to Quiet the Lies Inside Your Head through Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Traci is married to Eric, and together they have one adult son, and a quirky little terrier. In her downtime, she loves collecting seashells, painting, and unwinding with a good book on the breathtaking North Carolina coast she’s blessed to call home.

You can connect with Traci and read more of her work on her website, on Instagram @tracishniderwriter, and Facebook: @Traci Shnider-Writer.

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Author Bio for Susan Davidson: 

Susan is a freedom-from-striving pursuer and a sharer of encouragement enthusiast. God placed a pen in her hand to share His word and encourage others during one of her most discouraging and challenging seasons. She learned that encouraging others helps her live her own life more encouraged. 

She is a devotional writer featured in Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart: 50 Devotions for Sleeping Well in a World Full of Worry, and a co-writer of Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best. She has been featured in the Proverbs 31 Ministry’s publication entitled Hope When Your Heart is Heavy, in The Awake Our Heart literary journal, Callia Press online journal, and Her View from Home.

She calls the mountains of Virginia home. She is a wife, mother, Gran Gran, daughter, and friend who counts spending time with her special people among life’s greatest blessings. She is most content when she has coffee in her cup, pen in hand, and a great worship song in her heart. She loves going for dog walks in the park and spending quiet moments sitting on her porch swing with a good book in hand.

When she is not sharing words on her blog, you will find her sharing encouragement on Facebook and Instagram.

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Author Bio for Nichole Suvar:

Nichole is a speaker, author, and Intentional Living Strategist. 

With over 35 years of lived experience with anxiety, she writes and speaks on the topic of mental health and God’s design for mental wellness. Nichole has contributed to several devotionals, including Freedom from Worry, through Proverbs 31 Ministries. She is the author of I Don’t Have to Hold It All Together: Cultivating the Peace of Eden When Feeling Overwhelmed with Moody Publishers. She has also published Numbering Our Days: Combating Anxiety in the Power of Small Intentional Moments and other devotionals for Advent, Easter, and Teens.

Nichole has been a guest on numerous podcasts and blogs as well as a speaker on empathy for Great Kids MAKE Great Communities and writes curriculum for the National Suicide Hotline.

Nichole lives in the Midwest with her high school sweetheart husband Paul and their three teen children. She enjoys discovering new hiking paths, curling up with a good mystery novel, collecting cozy cardigans, and snacking on dill pickles with sharp cheddar cheese. 

She writes about living an overcoming life for Jesus, one intentional moment at a time, on her website livewithintent.org and on Instagram @nicholejsuvar.

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Book blurb for Unexpected Blessings:

Do you find yourself overwhelmed by the small, unseen pressures of daily life—the unanswered prayers, delayed plans, and details that feel too insignificant to matter? 

Trusting God can be especially difficult when the questions linger and clarity feels just out of reach. You may wonder if God is truly present in the ordinary moments, or if He sees the quiet struggles weighing on your heart.

Within these Unexpected Blessings devotions, you will read honest reflections from authors who have learned to trust God not just in life’s storms, but in its details. Through stories of waiting, surrender, and faith in the everyday, these pages remind us that God is attentive, intentional, and near. Even when the path feels uncertain, He is faithfully working in the small things—inviting us to trust Him one day, one step at a time.

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Buy this devo book on Amazon.

Listen to this podcast episode about my devotional book "Stories and Songs of Faith: My Journey with God"

 

Interview with Leslie McKee about her NEW devotional book

Today is a special day for my guest Leslie McKee. It's the release date for her NEW devotional book! Let's wish her a "Happy BOOK Birthday!"

In celebration of this special day, I've invited Leslie to talk with you about her devotional book via this author interview feature (below). She's also agreed to give away one copy of her book to the winner of the giveaway contest (details are at the end of this blog post). Enjoy!

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Interview with Leslie McKee about her devotional book (Hope Amid the Pain: Hanging On to Positive Expectations When Battling Chronic Pain and Illness)

Alexis: What inspired you to write this book?

Leslie: Friends told me for years how I should share my story because of how it could encourage others. I resisted because I didn't want others to view me differently because of my chronic pain/illness. However, a few years ago, I felt a nudge from the Lord. I tried to ignore it, but it didn't work. In fact, it became a bit more insistent. I, reluctantly at first, began jotting down some notes and verses that were meaningful to me and helpful on the flare-up days. That later turned into the devotions in this book.

Alexis: What was the inspiration behind your book title? How did you come up with this acronym for HOPE (Hang On to Positive Expectations)?

Leslie: Years ago, before I started writing the book, my pastor did a sermon on HOPE, and it’s something that has always stuck with me, especially on the days when I’m having a flare-up. I needed something to grab on to, to remind me that God still has a plan. This little acronym has helped me through many days, and I hope it can help others as well.

Alexis: Is this your first devotional book that you’ve written? Will there be more? Why or why not?

Leslie: Hope Amid the Pain is my first solo book. I have had my devotions published many other places, including three devotional compilations with Worthy/Ellie Claire, literary journals, and blogs. I do hope there will be future books. I have a few ideas, and I’ve even started working on what may become a 365-day devotional journal. It’s still a work in progress.

Alexis: What main message are you hoping to convey to your readers?

Leslie: My book is a 60-day devotional journal that will remind women it is possible to hang on to positive expectations and cling to the hope that can only be found in the Lord ... even while living with chronic pain and illness.

Alexis: What was the most challenging part of writing this book? And the easiest? Explain.

Leslie: Easiest: Choosing Bible verses that encourage me and lift me up on the difficult days. Most Challenging: Being willing to share my story with others—strangers, as well as those close to me, as I’ve rarely opened up about my chronic pain and illness.

Alexis: In what ways do you hope this devotional will help people who suffer from chronic illnesses and/or chronic pain?

Leslie: In addition to Scripture verses that I hope encourage them and remind them they’re not alone, I also include helpful hacks and tips, information I wish I’d been told when I was newly diagnosed, details on two things I find helpful (journaling and square breathing), and a list of resources where the reader can find information and support.

Alexis: In what ways did your faith in God impact your writing of this book?

Leslie: I’ve been a Christ follower since I was quite young. If I didn’t have Him in my life, I don’t know where I’d be, but I’m certain it wouldn’t be where I am now. There have been many days along the way where a part of me has wanted to throw in the towel, but then a song comes on the radio, or I read an encouraging verse, etc., and it reminds me that I’m not alone. The Lord is with me. I’ve survived 100% of the situations I’ve encountered thus far. He hasn’t left me yet, and I know He’ll continue to see me through each moment, including the painful ones.

Alexis: Who is your target audience for this message? Why?

Leslie: When writing the book, the audience I had in mind was women battling chronic pain and illness, ages 30–60, who want to know that they are not alone in their daily struggles. A believer or a woman who is a seeker or spiritually curious. However, I believe the devotions would apply to women in any geographic location, though some references may be a bit unfamiliar to non-Christians or those outside the USA. For a secondary audience: Caretakers, spouses, or family members of women battling chronic pain and illness. Also women of all ages struggling with a physical hardship or life loss.

Alexis: How do you think this book will reach readers who are Christians and who are not of the faith?

Leslie: We all want to know that we are seen, that we are heard, that we are not alone, and that we belong. I pray my book reminds women that God sees them. He hears them. He knows their pain. He is with them, and He loves them.

Alexis: Would you describe yourself as a “chronic pain warrior”? Why or why not? Share your story.

Leslie: Definitely, though I haven’t always seen myself this way. My view of myself in this regard changed a bit after a friend told me how she viewed me as an overcomer. To me, a chronic pain warrior is someone who is always in pain, though they look fine on the outside. But despite that painful truth, they keep going. Their pain fluctuates, and it’s not a life they would’ve chosen, but they’re more than their pain. While the battle may not always be a literal one, it’s still there, in part, every single day. It may take longer to do a task, even simple, basic ones, but they don’t give up. Progress is progress, no matter how slow the pace may be. And that truth is represented by the turtle on the cover of my book, who demonstrates the slow and steady pace a chronic pain warrior goes through every day. I’ve learned over the years that while this was never in my plans for my life, it was always in God’s plan. And He has one for me, pain and all. And I’m stronger through it because He’s right there with me, every painful moment along the way.

Alexis: What Bible verse keeps you going when you want to give up?

Leslie: I have a number of verses (including the sixty used in my book). The key one for me is Romans 8:37 (NIV): “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” 

Alexis: If you could sell your book in one sentence, what would you say?

Leslie: Hope Amid the Pain will remind women living with chronic pain and illness that hope can always be found in Jesus, and He has a purpose for their life, even amid the pain.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview! Do you have any closing comments?

Leslie: Thanks for having me, Alexis. I appreciate the opportunity to share about my book with your readers. I hope you all have a wonderful, blessed upcoming holiday season.

~*~
Author Bio:

Leslie is an editor, author, and reviewer, but editing, writing, and reviewing are not merely jobs—they are her passions.

Leslie is an avid reader with an eye for detail.

She has been a chronic pain warrior for more than twenty years, so she is familiar with the peaks and valleys associated with living with a chronic illness. She has felt God come alongside her through His Word and remind her that the battle is His and she’s not alone.

Leslie is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and The Christian PEN. She has had devotionals published in Ellie Claire/Worthy Publishing compilation books. She’s also published flash fiction stories.

In her spare time, Leslie enjoys reading, playing piano, crocheting, spending time with family and friends (and her turtle!), and rooting for the NY Giants.

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Blurb for Leslie’s devotional book:

Why me? Is God punishing me? Is my faith not strong enough for God to heal me? How can I achieve my dreams? What’s my purpose? 

If you’re someone living with a chronic illness or chronic pain, these are just a few of the questions you’ve likely asked on more than one occasion. You may feel overlooked or even resentful. You try to stay positive, but some days it’s hard. It’s natural to feel this way and grieve, but it’s still possible to have a hope-filled life. God has a purpose for the pain.

Christians aren’t immune from pain and illness, but we don’t have to go through it alone. Jesus promised that He would “never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV).

Millions of women suffering from chronic pain and illness want the reassurance they’re not alone. The devotions in Hope Amid the Pain are written by a chronic pain warrior with over twenty-five years’ experience will point them to hope and encouragement. It’s possible to Hang On to Positive Expectations (HOPE) even amid the pain.

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Buy Leslie’s book on Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Kobo ~ Booktopia

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Connect with Leslie:

Website: https://leslielmckee.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leslielmckee

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslielmckee/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeslieLMcKee

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7300724.Leslie_L_McKee

Amazon Author page: https://amzn.to/3aXGTkU

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Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN an e-copy (for Kindle) of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below: 

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My most recent podcast interview

Hope*Writer Laura Conrad interviewed me about my devotional book that I wrote! 

Listen below...

Ascolta "Tuesday's Talk with Author Alexis A. Goring" su Spreaker.

My Blog's 10th Year Birthday Bash: Courtnaye Richard's book giveaway

Welcome to the ninth day of my blog's birthday bash!

Please welcome my author friend Courtnaye Richard.

She's here to give away one copy of her devotional book!

Enter the book giveaway contest via the Rafflecopter widget the end of this blog post. Only residents of the USA are eligible to receive a signed paperback copy of this author's books. International residents will only receive ebook copies due to costs of mailing books outside of the USA.

Let's learn a little bit more about Courtnaye and her devotional book ...

Author Bio:

Courtnaye is the founder of Inside Out with Courtnaye, a ministry that helps women grow in their walk with Christ from the heart and equips them to fulfill their God-given purpose. 

She is also the author of the book, IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ and Moving Forward in Your Purpose.

Courtnaye is married with three beautiful children and is a contributing writer for ibelieve.com, Women’s Ministry Tools, speaker of a host of women’s conferences. Her blog reaches thousands of women across the globe. 

She resides in the beautiful Texas Hill Country (outside of Austin, Texas).

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Back Cover Blurb for Courtnaye's devotional book:

Behold all things are made new! In this 52-week devotional, get ready to grow in your Christian walk one week at a time with influential blogger, author, mentor, and conference speaker, Courtnaye Richard.

Each week, you will be encouraged, challenged, instructed, and equipped through real life topics and practices such as...

• Spending focused time with God
• Working well with others in church and at work
• Trusting God even when you can't see
• Controlling your emotions from the inside out
• Setting boundaries in life
• Self-care principles for Christian women
• Pressing through fear in life and endeavors
• And so many more topics

Courtnaye has created this brief, life-changing weekly women's devotional complete with monthly themes, scripture, practical insight, transparency, and a BONUS study guide! 

Choose to do it alone or use it for a small group. It's time to grow from the Inside Out, this week and beyond!

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Connect with Courtnaye:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutWCourtnaye/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideoutwithcourtnaye/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/InOutwCourtnaye

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/insideoutwcourtnaye1

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Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a copy of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below:

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Celebrate Lit blog tour featuring Lori Hatcher's book "Refresh Your Faith"

Welcome to my blog's stop on Lori Hatcher's tour with Celebrate Lit for her book, 

Refresh Your Faith: Uncommon Devotions from Every Book of the Bible.

I hope that you will enjoy learning more about this sweet author and her wonderful nonfiction story.

Remember to enter the giveaway contest toward the end of this blog post for your chance to win amazing prizes from the author.

Enjoy!

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About the Book

Refresh Your Faith: Uncommon Devotions from Every Book of the Bible

Author: Lori Hatcher

Genre:  Devotional

Release Date: May 2020

Unfamiliar verses. Uncommon insights. Unlimited possibilities.

Move from biblical doldrums to dynamic discovery! While your favorite Scripture verses or stories may bring you comfort, if you’re feeling monotony in your time with God it’s time to shake it up a bit.

Each of these 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions—one from each book of the Bible—spotlights an unusual verse or passage and takes only five minutes to read.

If you have more time, you can dig a little deeper with an uncommon thought to ponder, unusual faith action step to take, and an unfamiliar passage suggestion that invites you to further explore the Bible’s hidden gems.

You’ll be challenged to think deeply, step out boldly, and grow dynamically, transforming your devotional time—and your life!

Praise for Lori Hatcher’s writing . . .

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.”
—Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman

Click here to get your copy!

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About the Author:

Lori Hatcher is a blogger, pastor’s wife, and women’s ministry speaker. 

She’s the editor of South Carolina’s Reach Out, Columbia magazine, president of Columbia Toastmasters, and regular contributor to magazines such as Christian Living Today and websites like Crosswalk.com.

Her book Hungry for God . . . Starving for Time, won the Christian Small Publisher 2016 book of the year. Find out more about Lori and her well-loved 5-minute devotions at lorihatcher.com.

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Read a Teaser from Refresh Your Faith:

The dirty little secret in Christian circles is that many of us are bored with our devotional time. We know we shouldn’t feel this way. It’s important to read our Bibles every day. After all, it’s God’s Word, the source of truth, and life, and hope.

While some have successfully built the discipline of Bible reading into their lives, others struggle. Even those who regularly read their Bibles find it a bit dry at times. Many of us also read devotionals, not to take the place of Bible reading, but to help us discover unfamiliar passages and stories and benefit from a godly writer’s perspective.

I wrote Refresh Your Faith because I was frustrated by many of the devotionals I read. They seemed to focus on the same basic verses I’d memorized with my children twenty years ago. John 3:16, Romans 8:28, Psalm 23, Matthew 3:5-6. Same with the Bible passages and stories. I treasure the familiar verses and stories. I’ve held them close to my heart during some of the darkest times of my life.

But I knew there was more to the Bible than these well-worn favorites.

I reached a point in my spiritual life when I needed something new. If something didn’t change, my spirit was going to wither up. My time with God shouldn’t be something I did out of duty. I wanted to delight in God and His Word.

So I asked God to help me. I needed something to refresh my faith and energize my Bible reading. Wow, did He answer. I’d been reading through the Bible every year for more than a decade, but all of a sudden, the Holy Spirit opened my eyes to passages I’d never noticed before.

These uncommon verses sparkled like gems. The more I read, the more I spotted them, tucked into obscure stories and buried under genealogies and census reports. I found some hiding out in plain sight—golden nuances and nuggets in the shadows of the more familiar stories.

Refresh Your Faith, Uncommon Devotions from Every Book of the Bible is a collection of the treasure I unearthed during my year of searching. Each story-driven devotion contains an unusual verse, a real-life application, and an uncommon faith step.

I hope my book will energize your faith, inspire your devotional time, and make you say, “Wow, I’ve never seen that before!”

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My Review:

Lori Hatcher’s book, Refresh Your Faith: Uncommon Devotions from Every Book of the Bible, is a lovely devotional that is as lighthearted as the warm pastel colors on its book cover!

But the lighthearted storytelling style of the author is accented by solid Scripture to support the messages in each devotional in this book. And that is a good thing because it causes the reader to read the Bible, not just this author’s book.

It is clear that the author loves God and puts Him first in her life. She wears her heart on her sleeve as she weaves in personal stories from her life in the real world, in a way that’s practical yet inspiring. 

The author takes the reader on a journey through God’s Word (The Holy Bible) as each chapter of this devotional book is grounded in God’s book. She starts with the first book of the Bible (Genesis) and examines the central theme from that book then applies these ancient words to our modern day reality before moving on to the next Bible book. The author continues to take the reader by his or her hand and invite them on a journey through God’s Word from start to finish.

The author does a delightful job of encouraging the reader to delve deep into God’s Word and refresh their faith.

I’d highly recommend this book to every Christian who needs a boost to their daily devotional time with God. But I’d also share this book with people who do not yet know or follow Jesus Christ because they would be able to come to know Him and love Him as they read this author’s devotional book.

*Celebrate Lit provided me (Alexis A. Goring) with a complimentary copy of "Refresh Your Faith" (book). My opinions in this book review are my own.

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Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lori is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and autographed copy of Refresh Your Faith!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f9ed/refresh-your-faith-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 5

Through the Lens of Scripture, May 6

Melissa Henderson, May 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 7

Emily Yager, May 8

Texas Book-aholic, May 9

Inklings and notions, May 10

Mary Hake, May 10

Godly Book Reviews, May 11

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 12

For Him and My Family, May 13

deb’s Book Review, May 13

Older & Smarter?, May 14

Splashes of Joy, May 15

For the Love of Literature, May 16

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 17

God is Love, May 17

Spoken from the Heart, May 18

Marilyn Ridgway, May 18 (Guest Review on Lighthouse Academy Blog)

My interview with the Truth, Salt and Spice podcast about my NEW book!

Dear Reader Friends,

I'd love for you to listen to my very first interview with Xamayta Graver on her "Truth, Salt and Spice" podcast!

She interviewed me about my faith journey with God, my work as a professional writer and how I wrote my first devotional book, Stories and Songs of Faith: My Journey with God.

Listen and let me know what you think by leaving a comment below! :)

Author Interview with Courtnaye Richard about her devotional book

Dear Sweet Blogging Friends,

Today, you're in for a special treat!

My blogging friend Courtnaye Richard is here to talk about her NEW book! It's a book filled with weekly devotionals! One devotional for each week of an entire year. The devotionals are not dated, so can read this book any year!

Courtnaye also wants to give away one signed paperback copy of her book! Read the details about that and find out how you can have a chance to win toward the end of this blog post.

God bless you!

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Interview with Courtnaye Richard about her book, Inside Out with Courtnaye: 52 Week Devotional: Growing from the Inside Out One Week at a Time

Alexis: Congrats on your new book, Courtnaye! Let’s talk about it.

Courtnaye: Thanks so much Alexis and sure thing!

Alexis: Is this your first devotional book?

Courtnaye: Yep! This is my first devotional.

Alexis: Why did you choose to write a total of 52 devotionals? Explain the significance.

Courtnaye: Honestly, it just came out of nowhere! I was about to write on something else, but then the Lord impressed upon my heart to write a weekly devotional book vs. a daily one. I believe the significance that resonated with me was that we’re all busy, right? Well, at least most of us. So I felt led by the Holy Spirit to write short, weekly devotionals. The goal was instead of a daily devotional, a weekly one just gives us an alternative in the busy culture that we’re currently living in. And not that I’m knocking a “daily” devotional (I have many). However, this was just the direction the Lord was leading me.

Alexis: How did you determine your book’s format and layout (one devotional for each week of the year, then each of the selections such as the Study Guide and God’s Word for You, that are listed within each devotional)?

Courtnaye: It was actually my husband’s idea. Of course, I wanted to do something different than other devotionals that I’ve purchased and seen on bookshelves in stores. So, his suggestion was well-received. Moving forward, the determination was really guided by prayer after that. I prayed about the layout and its monthly topics, and began writing them out. I also wanted women to dive in deeper for personal reflection through the study guide, but also provide monthly topics and scriptures that they could not only do personally, but also use it for monthly small group meetings.

Alexis: What does it mean to “grow from the inside out” and how will your book help readers grow in that way?

Courtnaye: Growing from the inside out is all about loving God from the heart and living the life of Christianity in biblical and practical ways. It’s also about allowing Jesus to change you spiritually, personally, mentally, and emotionally. When we take time praying, reading and studying the Word, we grow. We mature. For the readers, I want them to understand that what we do when no one is watching and as we spend devoted time with God, in return, that inward change will eventually be noticed on the outside for others to glean and grow from as well. It’s the inner work that makes a huge difference in our lives, but also in the lives of those whom we influence for Christ.

Alexis: Tell about your life as a blogger. How and why did you start your blog? Why did you give your blog the name, Inside Out with Courtnaye? What do you want your audience to learn from your posts?

Courtnaye: I’ve been blogging since 2011. I absolutely love writing! With that being said, I was looking for a way to reach more women with the gospel and to help them grow spiritually, personally, and vocationally through the gift of writing. It wasn’t until one day, my husband said, “Why don’t you start blogging?” And I was like, “What? What is that, actually?” That started my research! When I learned all about it, that’s when it all began.

I had no idea that the Lord would use a weekly blog to reach thousands of women across the globe for His glory. He did it! I’m still amazed! I named the blog “Inside Out with Courtnaye” because we’re growing together. We’re in this Christian walk together, as sisters. I’m doing it with you. So, what I want my audience to learn from my posts is to let God change them from the inside out (from the heart and lifestyle). Allow Him to change them through the power of prayer, His Word, the Holy Spirit, godly mentorship, and wholesome fellowship. I love the Bible verse found in Philippians 2:13 (NLT) which says, “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”

Alexis: Your book title borrows from the name of your blog. Is this like an extension of your blog posts? Why or why not?

Courtnaye: It is actually (chuckling). You know, the Lord inspired me to write each weekly devotional like a blog post. That was His divine instruction. I thought it was for my other book that I’m working on, but I had no idea that He was referring to a brand new project, which is the 52 Week Devotional. Our thoughts and ways are definitely not like His (see Isaiah 55:8). And I’m good with that! Hence, that’s where the title came from. It was derived from my blog in every way!

Alexis: What is the mission of your blog and how does it carry over into the main message of your devotional book? 

Courtnaye: I would say that the mission is to grow. Let God change you from the inside out. No holding back. Surrender your life to His way and His will. God knows our hearts. Psalm 4:23 (NIV) says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” And it’s so true! Love and evil stems from it. So allowing the Lord to transform us from the inside out, stems from the heart, followed by Christ-like action. My blog and devotional both blend in perfect harmony right there.

Alexis: Do you have a writing mentor? If so, how did he or she help you become such a good author?

Courtnaye: I’d have to say that my writing mentor is the Holy Spirit. I am truly inspired by the Lord. I actually pray and ask the Holy Spirit to take over my hands as I write. The Bible was God-inspired. Men simply penned it. So when I write my blog or books, I write as I am inspired by the Lord. I literally say, “Lord, you know where your daughters and aspiring daughters are, help me to write what they need to read.” And from there, I trust and lean on Him as I write each post or chapter.

Alexis: If you could sell your devotional book with just one sentence, what would you say?

Courtnaye: Grab it today from www.courtnayerichard.com or www.amazon.com, because it will definitely begin changing your life one week at a time!

Alexis: Now for the fun and quick questions…Coffee or tea?

Courtnaye: Definitely coffee!

Alexis: Bagels or waffles?

Courtnaye: Waffles.

Alexis: Kindle of paperback?

Courtnaye: Paperback (I like my pen and highlighter). ;-)

Alexis: Who is your favorite author?

Courtnaye: Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Alexis: What is your favorite book?

Courtnaye: My favorite book is the The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian.

Alexis: What is your favorite season?

Courtnaye: Winter, definitely (boots and blankets)!

Alexis: Thanks for the interview Courtnaye! Would you like to share closing thoughts?

Courtnaye: Absolutely and thank you Alexis! Let God change you from the inside out, sister! Jesus is coming back soon!

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Author Bio:

Courtnaye is the founder of Inside Out with Courtnaye, a ministry that helps women grow in their walk with Christ from the heart and equips them to fulfill their God-given purpose. 

She is also the author of the book, IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ and Moving Forward in Your Purpose.

Courtnaye is married with three beautiful children and is a contributing writer for ibelieve.com, Women’s Ministry Tools, speaker of a host of women’s conferences. Her blog reaches thousands of women across the globe. 

She resides in the beautiful Texas Hill Country (outside of Austin, Texas).

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Blurb for Courtnaye's devotional book:

Behold all things are made new! In this 52-week devotional, get ready to grow in your Christian walk one week at a time with influential blogger, author, mentor, and conference speaker, Courtnaye Richard.

Each week, you will be encouraged, challenged, instructed, and equipped through real life topics and practices such as...

• Spending focused time with God
• Working well with others in church and at work
• Trusting God even when you can't see
• Controlling your emotions from the inside out
• Setting boundaries in life
• Self-care principles for Christian women
• Pressing through fear in life and endeavors
• And so many more topics

Courtnaye has created this brief, life-changing weekly women's devotional complete with monthly themes, scripture, practical insight, transparency, and a BONUS study guide! 

Choose to do it alone or use it for a small group. It's time to grow from the Inside Out, this week and beyond!

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Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a copy of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below:

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