Holy Monday, Jesus Cleanses the Temple

Posted on April 15, 2019April 13, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

After Jesus arrived in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday did you ever wonder how he spent His final week in ministry? What did He do until His crucifixion? On Monday He taught His disciples a parable about faith when He cursed a fig tree that did not produce fruit. Do you remember that one?

They had been out walking and were hungry when they saw a fig tree with many leaves. After they looked for the fruit, none could be found. It was barren. Many believe the tree being cursed represents God’s judgment on those that are spiritually dead.

This story of what Jesus also did might be more familiar. Jesus also went into the temple and cleared it out of the dishonest money changers. They were cheating people and making a mockery of the temple. He went through overturning tables and saying: “Scripture says ‘My Temple will be a house of prayer’, but you have turned it into a den of thieves.” He drove the money changers and their animals out restoring order and respect.

What has stayed with me about this story for many years is that Jesus stopped and braided a whip so that He could think about what He was going to do before just charging into the temple. He didn’t fly off the handle but took time to think about the situation. Maybe He prayed. I would imagine He did.

“So He made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; He scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.” John 2:15

Could you do this? I can’t tell you how many times I have flown off the handle in anger. Acted quickly without thinking things through. Not so with Jesus. His righteous indignation toward what was happening in the temple was just. It needed to be done. He waited to think clearly and make certain it was done correctly. How many times have I wished that I had done things like that? Many!

Jesus had one week left with his disciples before his crucifixion and resurrection. Everything was done in the right way without rushing. Even in a time of righteous anger He still slowed down and gave Himself time to cool off and think with a clear mind. What a beautiful example for all of us.

Can You Imagine the First Palm Sunday?

Posted on April 14, 2019April 13, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today is Palm Sunday. This celebrates the day Jesus triumphantly enters the city of Jerusalem. It marks one week before Easter. Here in Southern Indiana Palm Sunday can be a beautiful day or it can be snowing. It is very unpredictable. What isn’t unpredictable and remains unchanged is the Palm Sunday message. “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the king of Israel!” John 12:12-13.

Scripture tells us that Jesus rode into the city on a young donkey. The streets were lined with people who threw clothes and palms or small branches, in front of him as a sign of homage and respect. This was what people did for kings. They were treating Jesus like royalty. Using palm branches symbolized peace and victory. Jesus was coming in peace, triumphantly. The crowd of people shouted “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Can you imagine what it was like to be in that crowd? Jesus had come to save the lost, to secure their eternal life and salvation. He was the Messiah, long awaited. Hearts must have been beating wildly at the anticipation of seeing Him. Thought we’re surely running all over wondering what to do – stand, bow, wave, kneel. Did tears fill many eyes? My eyes get glassy thinking about it.

How amazing it must have been to see Jesus. He was the one that raised the dead back to life and healed the sick. He was the teacher everyone spoke of so highly. Jesus changed lives. Jesus was God’s Son. What would we have done in that crowd? Can you imagine?

It makes me think of Heaven and what I will do when I see Jesus. Like the Mercy Me song:

I can only imagine what it will be like
When I walk, by Your side
I can only imagine what my eyes will see
When Your face is before me
I can only imagine, I can only imagine
Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus
Or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in Your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine, I can only imagine
I can only imagine when that day comes
When I find myself standing in the Son
I can only imagine when all I would do is forever
Forever worship You
I can only imagine, I can only imagine

What will you do when you see Jesus? Can you imagine seeing Him face to face?

Mammaw’s Forgotten Easter Cookies

Posted on April 13, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Easter is rapidly approaching. We are at the ending stages of Lent. It is the time to turn our hearts and minds to Jesus and His journey to the Cross. Being raised in a Christian family Easter was much more than egg hunts and baskets for me. It was Resurrection Sunday.

I remember my maternal grandmother teaching me the Easter story over a cookie recipe one year. The cookies are good, but the story has stuck with me for decades. Memories made in the kitchen are priceless and stay with people.

You might want to do an activity like this for yourself, children, grandchildren, or kids’ group. The message might just plant a seed that will grow into a bountiful harvest. Sometimes a visual makes the Easter story a little more memorable, too. Years down the road they might be recalling time spent with you and lessons from your kitchen.

Mammaw’s Forgotten Easter Cookies

2 egg whites

1/2 tsp. cream of tartar

2/3 c. sugar

1 c. nuts

pinch of salt

1 tsp. white vanilla

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Place pecans in resealable plastic baggie. Crush pecans into small pieces with a rolling pin. Read John 19:1-3

“Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged Him. And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on His head, and they put on Him a purple robe, And said, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ and they smote Him with their hands.”

Sprinkle salt into egg whites. Read Luke 23:27, 33

“And there followed Him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented Him.”

“When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified Him there, along with the criminals—one on His right, the other on His left.”

Put vanilla into a bowl. Read John 19:28-30. “After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, ‘I thirst.’ Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to His mouth. When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, He said, ‘It is finished’ and He bowed His head, and gave up the ghost.”

Right now this mixture doesn’t look yummy. Add sugar slowly. Read Psalm 34:8 and John 3:16. “O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.” “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Beat with mixer until frothy and add cream of tartar. Then beat on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Add in vanilla close to the end. Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3.

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

“There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto Him, ‘Rabbi, we know that Thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with Him.’ Jesus answered and said unto him, ‘Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto parchment paper lined baking sheet. Read Matthew 27:57-60.

“When the night was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus’ disciple: He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb and departed.”

Place cookies in the oven, close the door and turn the oven off. Read Matthew 27:65-66.

“Pilate said unto them, ‘Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can.’ So they went, and made the tomb sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.”

Go to bed. Read John 16:20 and 22.

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.”

“And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.”

In the morning open the oven and take out the cookies.

Read Matthew 28:1-9.

“In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the tomb. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. And the angel answered and said unto the women, ‘Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead; and, behold, He goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see Him: lo, I have told you.’ And they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy; and did run to bring His disciples word. And as they went to tell His disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, ‘All hail. And they came and held Him by the feet, and worshipped Him.”

When you bite into the cookies notice they are hollow inside, empty, just like Jesus’ tomb.

The Baggage Handler Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on April 8, 2019April 8, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

The Baggage Handler is a cleverly written analogy about all of the “baggage” we carry around whether we realize it or not. It is a short, thought provoking book that stayed with me long after I finished it. Author David Rawlings has written a unique book with this one.

We meet Gillian. She is not happy with what she has or who she is and compares herself to others, especially her older (and unhappier) sister. Then there is David. He struggles with forgiveness. Lastly we meet Michael, a young man, who has pressure from his father about the future which creates self doubt about his own future desire. Besides these three, there is the upbeat, wise baggage handler.

This is the first book I have read by author David Rawlings. I enjoyed his style of writing. It had a current vibe that was easy to read. A few spots seemed to drag for me. One of my favorite things he wrote was “The siren song of Facebook, a song she could never deny, called to her.” How true is that? So poetic and cutting for a current issue. Then he used “the siren song” again a bit later and I was disappointed to hear it again.

The characters broke my heart. Why didn’t they see what weighed them down everyday? The book will make you take inventory of your own baggage. The ending left me wanting more. I wanted this book to evangelize about Jesus and Heaven. I wanted to know what happened after the characters left baggage claim. The Christian in me whispered that the book missed its mark. It just left me wanting. However, I was thrilled to find Discussion Questions at the end.

“The Baggage Handler” is a book that will make you think about your life. It certainly did me. Will it bring you closer to God. I seriously doubt it. However, I would recommend it. It would work wonderful in a reading group. There is so much to dissect and discuss. Individuals will enjoy it, too. I rated it a 3.5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a favorable review. These are my own, honest thoughts.

About the Book

In a similar vein to The Traveler’s Gift by Andy Andrews or Dinner with a Perfect Stranger by David Gregory, The Baggage Handler is a contemporary story that explores one question: What baggage are you carrying?

Three people take a flight that will change their lives forever. Fresh off a run-in with his wife, harried businessman David disembarks the plane angry and impatient. Gillian thought she would be more excited about coming to her niece’s wedding, but she is just hoping to survive. Malcolm has gambled everything on this trip to start his fledgling artistic career. To him, failure means working in hardware in what his father calls “a real job.” After each picks up the wrong suitcase, they make their way to a mysterious baggage depot in a deserted part of the city. There they meet the Baggage Handler, who shows them there is more in their baggage than what they have packed. A simple baggage mix-up at the airport is more than an inconvenience when it forces three people to face the baggage they are unknowingly carrying around.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

David Rawlings is an Australian author, and a sports-mad father-of-three who loves humor and a clever turn-of-phrase. Over a 25-year career he has put words on the page to put food on the table, developing from sports journalism and copywriting to corporate communication. Now in fiction, he entices readers to look deeper into life with stories that combine the everyday with a sense of the speculative, addressing the fundamental questions we all face.

More from David

Watch the trailer: https://vimeo.com/250255594
Check out David’s Padlet page to follow The Baggage Handler: https://padlet.com/david_rawlings/TheBaggageHandler

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 30

Fiction Aficionado, March 30

Carpe Diem, March 31

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, March 31

Christian Author, J.E. Grace, April 1

Christian Bookaholic, April 1

Godly Book Reviews, April 2

Remembrancy, April 2

Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 3

Spoken from the Heart, April 4

Connect in Fiction, April 4

2014 and Beyond!, April 5

The Becca Files, April 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 6

Inklings and notions, April 6

Texas Book-aholic, April 7

janicesbookreviews, April 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 8

All 4 and About Books, April 8

Creating Romance, April 9

Josephine’s Bookshelf, April 9

Aryn The Libraryan, April 10

Reader’s Cozy Corner, April 10

Bigreadersite, April 11

Just the Write Escape, April 11

Artistic Nobody, April 12

A Reader’s Brain, April 12

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, David is giving away a finished copy of the book to three winners!!

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/dd7a/the-baggage-handler-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Silken Thread by Kim Vogel Sawyer Book Review

Posted on April 3, 2019April 3, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Author Kim Vogel Sawyer has written a poignant tale of life in Atlanta, Georgia during the 1890’s. Filled with history, family, friends, and faith this is a beautiful story. It captured my attention quickly and held it until the end.

In the beginning of the book, Laurel Millard is ambushed by her six siblings and told “Someone will need to care for Mama into her dotage, and we believe the right person is you.” Not a care is given that this beautiful eighteen year old is in the stage of her life where she should be courting and thinking about a family of her own.

The characters, four main ones, are well described and come to life on the pages. It is easy to become engaged with them and their lives. The story has been well planned and researched. Attention has been given to historical accuracy. I learned about the 1895 Atlanta Cotton Exposition and silk weaving. I love learning things from books I read for entertainment. The language, customs, and dress were all well done and took me to the time period and place of the novel.

It is important that a Christian novel has an inspirational message and makes mention of God. This book does not disappoint. It clearly gives glory to God and discusses His direction for our lives.

This is a delightful book. It is filled with issues that are current today such as loyalty, hope, marriage, family, friendship, romance, racism, and envy. The romance is a bit light but sweet. The story touched my heart and pulled on my emotions.

I highly recommend this amazing Christian historical fiction book. It has Discussion Questions for in-depth and group study. I gladly give it a 5 star rating. A copy was provided by the publisher but these are my own honest thoughts.

About the Book

Paperback, 352 pages

Published April 2nd 2019

Waterbrook Press

For readers who love a heartwarming romance and a rich historical setting comes a tale of a young woman with a heavy burden, the International Cotton Exposition, and the pursuit of true love.

Eighteen-year-old Laurel Millard, youngest of seven children, is expected to stay home and “take care of Mama” by her older siblings, but Laurel has dreams of starting her own family. Operating a silk loom at the Atlanta Exposition will give her the chance to capture the heart of a man wealthy enough to take care of Laurel and any children she might bear, as well as her mother.

Langdon Rochester’s parents have given him an ultimatum: settle down with a wife or lose his family inheritance. At the Exposition, Langdon meets Laurel. Marrying her would satisfy his parents’s command, she would look lovely on his arm for social events, and in her besotted state, he believes she would overlook him continuing pursuing rowdy adventures with his unmarried buddies. Langdon decides to woo Laurel. Willie Sharp is not well-off and must take on an extra job at the Atlanta Exposition as a security guard. When mischief-makers cause trouble in the Women’s Building, Willie is put in charge of keeping the building secure. He enjoys visiting with Laurel, who seems like the little sister he never had, but his feelings for Laurel change to something much deeper. Can Willie convince Laurel that he can give her better life–even with so little to offer?

About the Author

Award-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer’s Return. Kim’s titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different language. A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim’s passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn’t writing, you’ll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or–as time allows–participating in community theater. You can learn more about Kim’s writing and speaking ministries at her website, KimVogelSawyer.com.

“When You Are Near” by Tracie Peterson Book Tour & Giveaway

Posted on April 2, 2019March 29, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today’s blog features Celebrate Lit’s Book Tour of Author Tracie Peterson’s “When You Are Near.” This Christian historical romance is Book One in her new series “Brookstone Brides.” As with all of the Celebrate Lit Book Tours, you have a chance to win a great prize or two. Be sure to read all of the way to the bottom and enter.

My Thoughts on the Book

Within the first chapter I knew this was a Christian book so I was thrilled. It is witnessed in their daily lives and not heavily preached. This is a very different tale than any I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I bet you would, also.

The author has an easy style of writing. She doesn’t rush her story but lets it blossom as it unfolds. The characters are engaging. They are described in such a way that I wanted to be their friend. The storyline has been well planned and researched. Attention is given to details and I was able to glean some things from this story.

This is the tale of Lizzy Brookstone, a female trick rider in a Wild West show. Author Peterson vividly describes the action so it is easy to picture the riders and stunts. There is even a female sharp shooter. It is amazing the things these ladies can do. Lizzie and her mother are grieving the death of Lizzie’s father. My heart broke for them in some places. I could feel their pain and loss. Their emotions jumped from the pages straight into me.

As the story progresses we meet more characters with their own baggage. Both men and women alike add to the story and will certainly return in Book Two. It is a well rounded cast of lovable and not so lovable people.

This book contains something for everyone. Danger, mystery, intrigue, romance, inspiration, and plenty of action. It takes on love, death, faith, hope, friendship, family, justice and God’s protection. I encountered a few twists and turns as well as some life lessons within the pages, too. The characters range from an English gentleman to rowdy wrangling cowboys.

This is another page turning, don’t put me down book from talented booksmith Peterson. She provided entertainment, education, and inspiration. The only thing I missed was a discussion question section. I highly recommend this beautifully written novel. Anyone would adore it. It earns a 5 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review. These are my own, honest word

About the Book

Book: When You Are Near

Author: Tracie Peterson

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: March 5, 2018

After her father’s death, Lizzy Brookstone, a trick rider in the all-female Brookstone Wild West Extravaganza, wants nothing more than to quit her role as the star of the show and live a quiet life on her family’s ranch. But returning home would bring Wesley DeShazer, the ranch’s foreman and the man who broke her heart, back into her life. In addition, the Brookstones’ new manager fears that Lizzy’s departure could doom the already cash-strapped show.

Hope grows in Lizzy during a stopover at Fleming Farm. Ella Fleming not only has a natural talent for trick riding and could easily replace Lizzy, but she’s eager to join the show to flee a forced betrothal. However, while there, one of the show’s wranglers is killed in a manner Lizzy finds suspicious. And during her escape from the farm, Ella stumbles across a secret that could affect all of their lives, as well as the future of the Brookstone Extravaganza.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Tracie Peterson (www.traciepeterson.com) is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 100 novels. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana.

Guest Post from Tracie

Introducing…When You Are Near!

I’m excited about the new Brookstone Brides series and had so much fun researching for the various characters and locations. This is a story about a fictional Wild West show with all female performers. Prior to the rodeos we see today, the Wild West shows traveled throughout America and Europe to entertain people and give city dwellers a taste of what the American frontier was like. At least their version.

Buffalo Bill Cody was famous for his shows, which brought Native Americans and their culture into the world of people who might otherwise never have even seen an “Indian.” Pawnee Bill was another entertainer who sought to keep these shows alive.

For the fictional show in my novels, I wanted to focus on three female characters who became a part of the Brookstone Wild West Extravaganza for varying reasons. Lizzy Brookstone is the heroine in book one, When You Are Near, and as the daughter of one of the show’s owners, she has enjoyed a starring role as a trick rider.

For research I went to Pueblo, Colorado to the ranch of Karen Vold, a famous trick rider and rodeo star. Linda Scholtz, a famed trick rider, was teaching a clinic there along with Karen at the Red Top Ranch Trickriding School.

These are two remarkable Christian trick riders who have long worked to keep the sport alive. I spent three days getting to know them and what they do and learned so much. And just to prove that we weren’t all work and no play, I thought I’d share my attempt at trick riding. What I won’t do for research!

The series will have three books, as usual, and each book will focus on a different lady and her skills. Mary is a trick shooter like Annie Oakley, and Ella is a Roman rider who stands on the backs of two horses for her part in the act. It was so interesting learning about each of these types of performers, and I hope you’ll get a chance to read all three and enjoy the stories of the Brookstone Wild West Extravaganza.

Blog Stops

Among the Reads, March 26

The Power of Words, March 26

Christian Author, J.E. Grace, March 26

Inklings and notions, March 26

The Meanderings of a bookworm, March 27

Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, March 27

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 27

Vicky Sluiter, March 27

Carpe Diem, March 28

The Avid Reader, March 28

Genesis 5020, March 28

The Lit Addict, March 29

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 29

Back Porch Reads, March 29

Just the Write Escape, March 30

Splashes of Joy, March 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 30

Emily Yager, March 31

Daysong Reflections, March 31

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 31

Life of Literature, April 1

EmpowerMoms, April 1

For the Love of Literature, April 1

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 2

Through the Fire Blogs, April 2

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, April 2

For Him and My Family, April 3

Remembrancy, April 3

Inspiration Clothesline, April 3

Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, April 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 4

Pause for Tales, April 4

Older & Smarter?, April 5

Stories By Gina, April 5

Book by Book, April 5

Bigreadersite, April 6

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 6

Connect in Fiction, April 6

Godly Book Reviews, April 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 7

Texas Book-aholic, April 7

Blossoms and Blessings, April 8

janicesbookreviews, April 8

A Reader’s Brain, April 8

The Becca Files, April 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tracie is giving away a grand prize of When You Are Near, Tracie’s A $25 Barnes and Noble Gift card, and the three books in The Heart of Alaska series and three other winners will receive a copy of When You Are Near!!

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/dcdd/when-you-are-near-celebration-tour-giveaway

Aren’t There More of Us?

Posted on March 31, 2019March 29, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

I am struggling with this full term abortion that some states are wanting to allow. Actually, I struggle with the idea of abortion at all. Obviously this is one of the most heavily debated topics. As much as I want to jump on a soap box and give you my views, that is not what I want to talk about today. I know. Surprise opening if I am not debating pro-life and abortion, but everyone should know my heart on that by now.

What I want is discuss is if there are so many people outraged at this, why is it happening? We live in the United States of America which I was taught in school is a republic. The definition of republic is: “a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch.” Okay, I will agree to that. I have also heard it said we are a democracy. A democracy is “a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives.”

So whatever our country is, it is “by the people” and not just by the elected. With so many citizens being upset with this latest abortion ruling, I ponder why it is passing. Aren’t there more of us that are appalled and against it than there are that are for it?

If the information I have been reading is true, it is absolutely nothing short of barbaric. For a Nation that says “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. . .” this latest news on full-term abortion doesn’t sound too welcoming. It sounds like veiled infanticide. I see the comparisons of the protection for the young endangered species verses an unborn human child and it breaks my heart.

What can we do? Honestly, if so many of us are disturbed by this shouldn’t we be doing something? My thought is to PRAY FERVENTLY and WITHOUT CEASING. Each day take this before Abba, our Father and Creator. If we are so immensely grieved, He must be so much more than we can fathom. Second, tell every elected official. Ask what can be done to stop this lunacy. Someone much smarter than I should have some ideas on what it takes to stop this killing.

Please, nothing else. No violence, no protests, nothing that could get out of hand. This was something I needed to talk to you about and request prayer. It seems ridiculous that there are so many against this and yet it bulldozes through. We need to put on the Armor of God and pray! Will you join me?

A Very Austen Valentine Book Tour & Giveaway by Celebrate Lit

Posted on March 30, 2019March 27, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today’s Book Tour features “A Very Austen Valentine” by author Robin Helm and others. This is Book 2 in the Austen Anthologies. I haven’t read Book 1 yet but after reading this collection I definitely will. You should, too.

My Thoughts

Are you a Jane Austen fan, too? The polite language, customs, and manners are so quaint and make me long for a time gone by. This collection of novellas was a lovely serving of Austen era and even characters. While reading I crossed paths with old friends from “Pride and Prejudice,” “Sense and Sensibility,” as well as “Persuasion.” That was a delightful surprise.

This book is a collection of six novella written by “new to me” authors. It was a charming sampling of works in a genre I favor. There is definitely something for everyone within its covers. I found romance, humor, and twist and turns in these stories.

Obviously with six different authors I will have different thoughts on all of the stories. I had two favorites that captured my attention quickly. One favorite was “I Dream of You” by author Robin Helm. She did such an excellent job with Lizzy. The entire concept is genius. It is refreshing reading a love story about a married couple. I did not want this one to end. Definitely it is a 5 star tale!

The other four were enjoyable, also. For the main part, the writing was very good, characters seemed realistic, and I was invested in each story.

This is a Valentine themed book, but since romance and love are timeless it can be enjoyed at anytime of the year. I would recommend this to lovers of Jane Austen and Regency romance. It affords a glimpse into six different authors’ styles all wrapped up in one book. Overall this book gets a 4 out of 5 stars from me. Celebrate Lit provided me a copy but these are my own, honest opinions.

About the Book

Book: A Very Austen Valentine

Author: Robin Helm

Genre: Historical Romance (Regency), Religious and Inspirational

Release Date: December 29, 2018

Six beloved authors deliver romantic Valentine novellas set in Jane Austen’s Regency world. Robin Helm, Laura Hile, Wendi Sotis, and Barbara Cornthwaite, together with Susan Kaye and Mandy Cook, share variations of Pride and Prejudice, Persuasion, and Sense and Sensibility, featuring your favorite characters in sequels, adaptations, and spinoffs of Austen’s adored novels.

Experience uplifting romance, laugh-out-loud humor, and poignant regret as these authors deftly tug on your heartstrings this Valentine’s Day.

I Dream of You by Robin Helm

Newly-married Elizabeth Darcy has a plan: to charm her too-busy husband into desiring her company as much as he did when he was courting her. A series of romantic dreams gives her just the push she needs to put that plan into action.

Sir Walter Takes a Wife by Laura Hile

Faced with a lonely future and finding himself strapped for cash, Persuasion’s Sir Walter Elliot manfully decides to marry again. But his careful plans go sadly awry! A lighthearted Valentine mash-up featuring two of Jane Austen’s worst snobs.

My Forever Valentine by Wendi Sotis

Jane and Charles Bingley have married, even though Miss Elizabeth Bennet remains certain Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy gave his best effort to keep them apart. After Mr. Darcy refused to stand up with Bingley and did not attend the wedding, she despises the gentleman more than ever and finds his company intolerable. How will she endure her visit to Kent if Mr. Darcy turns up everywhere she goes?

Pretence and Prejudice by Barbara Cornthwaite

A chance encounter with a handsome stranger forces Elizabeth to resort to subterfuge in order to discover his true intentions.

My Valentine by Mandy H. Cook

Little Charlotte was always determined and independent, traits which served her well as she battled a serious childhood illness and later as she took on Polite Society. Will those traits now deprive her of true love? Or would her lifelong Valentine win her heart?

The Lovers’ Ruse by Susan Kaye

In this Persuasion alteration, Anne is so altered by Wentworth’s love in the summer of 1806, she refuses to give him up when both her godmother and father try to persuade her. “The Lovers’ Ruse”follows Frederick and Anne through their whirlwind courtship and their secret engagement. When Wentworth returns for his Annie girl, the cat comes out of the bag.

About the Author

Robin Helm’s books reflect her love of music, as well as her fascination with the paranormal and science fiction.

Previously published works include The Guardian Trilogy: Guardian, SoulFire, andLegacy (a guardian angel protects a supernaturally gifted girl), the Yours by Design series: Accidentally Yours, Sincerely Yours, and Forever Yours (Fitzwilliam Darcy switches places in time with his descendant, Will Darcy), and Understanding Elizabeth (Regency sweet romance).

She contributed to A Very Austen Christmas: Austen Anthologies, Book 1, an anthology featuring like-minded authors, in 2017, and A Very Austen Valentine: Austen Anthologies, Book 2 which was released on December 29, 2018.

New releases for 2019 include More to Love, a standalone historical sweet romance dealing with body image; Lawfully Innocent, a historical U.S. Marshal romance book in the Lawkeepers series; Maestro, a historical sweet romance featuring a brilliant musician and his student; and A Very Austen Romance: Austen Anthologies, Book 3.

She lives in sunny South Carolina where she teaches piano and adores her one husband, two married daughters, and three grandchildren.

More from Robin

Do you love Historical romance, but avoid “those” covers like the plague?

Would you enjoy an anthology featuring six Valentine-themed novellas set in the Regency period written by Christian authors?

In A Very Austen Valentine, stories range from a young wife searching for a way to bring her marriage back to the way it was, to a laugh-out-loud courtship between Jane Austen’s worst snobs.

Misunderstandings, concealed identities, and romance abound.

There is even a sequel featuring the children of the Darcys and the Brandons.

Every reader will find something to love in this wonderful collection.

Blog Stops

Blossoms and Blessings, March 25

Christian Bookaholic, March 25

Blogging With Carol, March 26

Britt Reads Fiction, March 26

Reflections from My Bookshelves, March 27

For Him and My Family, March 27

Godly Book Reviews, March 28

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 28

Emily Yager, March 29

Connect in Fiction, March 29

The Christian Fiction Girl, March 30

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 30

Moments, March 31

Mary Hake, March 31

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 1

Pause for Tales, April 1

Creating Romance, April 2

Book by Book, April 2

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 3

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 4

Texas Book-aholic, April 4

janicesbookreviews, April 5

A Reader’s Brain, April 5

Just the Write Escape, April 6

Inklings and notions, April 7

The Becca Files, April 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Robin is giving away

Grand Prize: a $50 Amazon gift card
1st Place: An autographed paperback of A Very Austen Valentine: Austen Anthologies, Book 1
2nd Place: An autographed paperback of A Very Austen Christmas: Austen Anthologies, Book 2
3rd Place: A set of three ebooks – Reader’s Choice of any three of my books and
4th Place: a $5 Amazon gift card!!

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/ddfa/a-very-austen-valentine-celebration-tour-giveaway

Perfect Timing

Posted on March 29, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Lent is a time of waiting and preparing. Reminiscent of the forty days Jesus spent in the desert preparing for Holy Week and His crucifiction, it allows us time consider things in our lives as we patiently wait for Easter.

How patient of a person are you? Are you able to sit and let things happen in their own time? Perhaps you are more impatient and would rather nudge things along? My mother takes delight in sharing that I was “born 25 days early and have kept up that pace ever since.” Obviously, she doesn’t think I am a patient waiter.

Scripture tells us to “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him…” (Psalm 37:7). Nothing in that says to hurry Him along. In Psalm 130:5 it says “I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.” All throughout the Bible we are instructed to wait on God. Assurances are given that His timing and His ways are far better than our own. Do we listen and wait? I try, but. . .

Have you ever tried to rush things? You wanted something so much that you just couldn’t wait? Maybe you took something out of the oven before it was fully baked and instead of experiencing a perfect bite it was awful. I had a friend whose son took his driver’s test the first day he was able but didn’t study. It wasn’t the right time, and yes, he failed.

For four years I have been praying for someone who is troubled. Physical issues are now manifesting in emotional ways. Depression and anxiety have not just set in but rooted themselves. I haven’t given up. The Bible says to “pray without ceasing” and so I am. I have to catch myself because I want to give God some suggestions on how to get this done. He doesn’t need that.

So I pray and wait until it is His time, completely giving my loved one over to the Creator. When it is His timing then things will change. In the meantime, God is here. Always here.

Lent is a time of preparing my heart and mind for the miracle of Easter. It is a time of waiting for what is to come and denying ourselves luxuries like Jesus did in the desert. This is a time for drawing near to God and waiting. Take comfort in knowing that no matter what you are waiting for when it is God’s time for it to happen, it will. Until then, keep praying.

An Unpresentable Glory Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on March 28, 2019March 24, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today’s blog is a stop on the “Unpresentable Glory” Book Tour by Celebrate Lit. If you haven’t become acquainted with author Eleanor K. Gustafson, you are in for a treat. She has a $25 Burpee Gardening gift card for one lucky reader, too!

My Thoughts

“An Unpresentable Glory” is a contemporary Christian novel. Filled with mystery, suspense, and romance the 368 pages went by quickly as I read it nonstop. My love for plants and flowers blossomed. I enjoyed the garden and floral setting.

Author Gustafson has a delightful style of writing. It is smooth as butter and glides without a bump or hitch. Her use of humor and metaphors made me smile. The characters were vividly described and I found them well rounded and relatable. I felt like I knew Linda well.

It was easy to become invested in this story. I was hooked from the very first page. The faith element was easily identifiable. This is a God glorifying book. Life lessons are woven all throughout this offering. Relenant, timely lessons for today were tackled. Also, I even learned a thing or two. All of those make for a wonderful reading experience.

This is a beautifully written book. It is well planned, researched, organized, and executed. Author Gustafson is an extremely gifted wordsmith. Her book gently took my hand and took me inside its pages. I felt the story! I was there while reading it. Only great authors can do that.

I highly recommend this book. It is the perfect escape for contemporary fiction lovers. A church readers group or any book club would relish discussions on this jewel. I gladly rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but all opinions are my own, honest ones.

About the Book:

Book: An Unpresentable Glory

Author: Eleanor K. Gustafsonb

Genre: Christian, contemporary, literary fiction

Release Date: July, 2018

“I trusted you, and some day, you may know just how much you hold in your hands.”

Linda Jensen leads a relatively quiet life in Westchester County, New York, as the owner of a highly acclaimed garden. Inherited from her parents, the garden is her pride and joy. It is not so joyful finding a strange man sprawled near her delphiniums! The mysterious man is sick, unable to do anything more than drink water—and beg for secrecy. Ignoring all alarm bells, Linda sees to his needs, but her caring act takes on unexpected significance, and unpresentable glory.

Seeds of trust, and perhaps love, are planted in Linda’s garden haven. But as secrets are revealed and scandal hits the headlines, the act of caring for this man threatens to tarnish both of their reputations. Like weeds in Linda’s garden, circumstances threaten to choke out their fledgling relationship, and small moments prove to be the biggest influencers—on a national scale.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Ellie grew up in Branchville NJ, in a county with more cows than people. She attended Wheaton College in Illinois as a music major, then married a pastor/college professor/tree farmer/organist and writer. Together, they have three children and eight grandchildren.

Music was Ellie’s first love until she tried on the cloak of writing and found it a comfortable fit. However, early writing attempts saw friends—and even her mother—advising her to stick to music as a career. She pushed manfully along, though, and An Unpresentable Glory is her sixth novel.

“God first touched me through story,” Ellie says, “and made the bigger Story come alive. I love Him passionately!”

More from Ellie

What’s An Unpresentable Glory about? Here’s Linda’s point of view: Linda Jensen, a noted gardener, finds a stranger sprawled near her delphiniums, obviously ill. She gets him into her house and puts him to bed, deciding that water is the only safe thing to give him. Water in, however, must come out. He is helpless; she must serve him; but in doing this unpresentable task, she feels the presence of angels. [See the book Preface for my personal experience with this.]

Jay’s point of view: Jay finds himself ill and helpless on the lawn of a wealthy but caring gardener. He can’t even reveal his real name. When he leaves at week’s end, he sees the relationship as hopeless because of who he is and enormous repercussions if the hidden week comes to light. Tragedy and disaster haunt him, but a dual set of mentors leads him through churning waters. Will he ever get back to the garden?

* * *

Linda’s sun tea was “mostly Darjeeling with lemon and a sprig of mint.” After reading her description, I tried it and found it tasty, indeed!