MoonglotexasHaving thoroughly enjoyed the Christian-centric TV series, When Calls The Heart, I picked up this devotional book knowing it would be full of hope. Each day’s reading begins with a Bible verse and a quote from a character in the show. Reflecting back on an episode, the book then walks through that story outline highlighting God’s role and making the story relevant to the reader for example, on day 2, it asks “What is your collapsed coal mine? What eviction notices have been tacked up on your door? What situation right now feels so overwhelming that you don’t think you can get through it?” Guidance is shared along with a prayer. My favourite section is the last one “What’s on your heart today”, three questions asking how to live out that day’s devotion. I loved this paragraph:
“That’s life for all of us. God doesn’t promise perpetual happy endings. But he does promise “when you pass through the waters, they will not sweep over you” (Isaiah 43:2). Notice it doesn’t say if we pass through the waters, but when we do. Do when storm clouds are threatening, and we feel like running away like Cody, remember that God will recognize our needs and meet them. He allows the storms. Without them, we would never have the blessing of His provision. And remember, He’s also the God of blue skies, sunrises, and rainbows…especially rainbows.”
If you haven’t watched the series, the opening stories won’t feel relevant but if you are a fan of it, this book is for you! Four out of five for me!
From the back cover:
Follow Your Heart to Hope Valley
Inspired by best-selling author Janette Oke and the Hallmark Channel original TV series When Calls the Heart, these inspirations from Hope Valley are about finding moments of grace, joy, and beauty amid the unexpected circumstances of life.
In this collection of 40 devotions, Brian Bird, executive producer and co-creator of When Calls the Heart, and Michelle Cox illuminate the “God-moments” from the fictional, 1910 mining town of Hope Valley—the stories of faith, hope, and love from each episode that will inspire and encourage with wonderful virtues and relatable life lessons.
Each chapter contains a quote from one of your favorite “citizens,” a Scripture verse, a devotional reflection, a prayer, and questions to help you think a little deeper about what’s on your own heart.
You don’t want to miss this journey—because as Elizabeth Thatcher learned when she headed West to fulfill her dream of becoming a teacher—when God calls the heart, you can expect an adventure.
With thanks to NetGalley and Broadstreet Publishing Group, LLC
