Thursday, December 31, 2015

God Is With You Every Day - Max Lucado

Confession time.

I've actually only ever read children's books by Max Lucado. With the onslaught of college and my delightful diving into fiction since graduation I just never got around to him.

The collection of children's books he has written though never fail to delight me, so when I had the chance to look at Lucado's new 365 day devotional so close to the new year it seemed like a good fit.

God is with you every Day by Max Lucado is a 365 day devotional meant to easily kick start or end one's day. As the release says




God Is With You Every Day is a brand-new 365-day devotional from Max Lucado, and his first new devotional since the creation of the Grace for the Moment® line. Max’s signature reassuring and encouraging voice, paired with the practical, relevant, and personal message that God is with you every day, makes a great way to start each day of the year.

Overall I found that to be a fairly accurate explanation of this little book although, as always, I had a few opinions to flesh it out.

I was actually surprised how nervous I was accepting this book for review. Lucado is a well known name and can bring out strong opinions. This was a good thing as I was also able to recognize my own preconceptions going into the book. 
Given Lucado's reputation I think I expected more consistency within the book itself. Some days just seemed to simplistic, to rushed through in an effort to make sure each day had something written. This was a let down for me given my familiarity with his children's literature which has such impact with it's message within the story. 

On a positive note, the book was also easily accessible. Each day's reading was short and to the point. Easily read in 5 minutes Lucado seems to have striven for and achieved a book where a busy schedule could be put forward as an excuse not to read. This devo is streamlined and compact enough for any schedule.

I was also pleased with the construction of the book itself (I know a seemingly little detail). However, ever since our second little arrived I'm finding simplicity adds to success. Having a sturdy construction so a book can survive my bedside table (toddlers are so creative and resourceful) as well as a built in bookmark is a huge plus. Now if they could just make books a bit more waterproof for the teething infant I usually have attached to me these days.

I can see Lucado having a lot of reach with this book. His stories are easy to relate too, his writing seeks to connect with his readers hearts, and he speaks simple truth. I was disappointed that sometimes the stories seemed too simplistic but, keeping that in balance with my love of academics, realize I may be the minority on that.

Easily accessible, relatable, and simple truths.
3.5 stars out of 5


 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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