M&M Review: Grace for the Race

When the opportunity to review this book came along I didn’t jump on it because, as bad as it sounds, I am not usually interested in reading devotional books. But as I thought about it, I realized I am a busy mom and I do need grace so why not give this book a try? I’m glad I did. I kept the book in my van so I could read it at long stoplights and during other wait times. It was perfect for that kind of reading. Sometimes I’d even sit in my driveway after returning home because I wanted to read what came next.

From the minute I started reading the Acknowledgements (Yes, people do read them.) I wanted to read more because it held the hope of learning from someone who is a little farther up the road I hope to travel…being a writing mom. It’s her first book, which she humbly acknowledged is a group project. Even more inspiring is that she was able to complete it while pregnant with her second son. There’s hope for me yet! Moving to the Table of Contents made my smile. The clever use of sport metaphors for the section titles appealed to my interest in athletics. Then there was this quote from the Introduction, “…God doesn’t desire perfection. What He does desire is daily surrender of our expectations, schedules, emotions, and relationships.” Bingo. Exactly what I needed to hear.

Obviously, I went into the book with much anticipation. If I enjoyed the preliminaries this much, then the “meat” of the book was sure to be satisfying. It didn’t disappoint. For one thing, the format is appealing. Each essay begins with a relevant quote from various people and ends with applicable Scriptures called “Notes from the Coach.” I like to read quotes and the Word is essential to my life.

The essays themselves cover several facets of motherhood. Though I found many similarities with Ms. Dyer – fondness for chocolate, being a Texan, kitchen impairment, and a need to write – the content is varied enough that there’s something for every mom.

Among my favorites are “What Mom Taught Me,” “Journaling for the Soul,” “Is the Proverbs 31 Woman for Real?,” “The Red Sea Place,” and “Leaving a Legacy.” Many times the Holy Spirit used Ms. Dyer’s writing to speak to me at my point of need. I’m sure He can do the same for you.

While reading this book you will be encouraged, strengthened, humored and inspired. Bring it along on your errands and make the most of your wait time. I even recommend picking up copies for your friends so you can bless them coming and going.

BTW, Ms. Dyer also has website that includes resources for writers and tips & tricks for moms.

Disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from the publisher, via Mind & Media for distribution to reviewers with blogs.

Comments

[anita]

& yet you do another thing with excellence! Please tell me about book reviews. Finding out that devotionals weren't your thing gave me a bit of a shock, but I rebounded nicely to discover that you liked this one, maybe there is hope for me?