Reviews

Beholding and Becoming: The Art of Everyday Worship by Ruth Chou Simons

daisyfd's review against another edition

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5.0

“Heartaches can either mold us into confident worshippers or defensive doubters. Who we become in the wrestling of them is not neutral... we aren’t promised answers that heal, outcomes we think we deserve, or timing that makes the most sense to us. Instead that In every circumstance Gods purpose will prevail and will not be thwarted by manipulators, liars, or cheats. Injustice and selfish schemes are no match for him who wastes nothing. We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Hin, who have been called according to his purpose. “ Romans 8:28NIV

Once again Ruth takes the word of Lord and gives them to us in morsels beautifully wrapped in gorgeous paintings and abundant wisdom. This is not a self-proclaimed wisdom but a wisdom that can only come from beholding God’s word for herself. Her work reflects the work the Lord wants to do in our hearts, to create beauty out of ashes and emptiness. Not only will the beautiful artwork speak to your heart but it will also encourage you to examine your heart. What circumstances and struggles in your life have shifted your gaze to yourself and away from the Lord? Have you felt empty after Sunday church feeling despondent that the day is over and you must return to “normal” life?
Well, pick up this book and learn new rhythms, find new insights into the Lord’s heart through Ruth’s art and heart. The pages of this book make it easier to practice His presence. Ruth says, “Practice makes a posture become a pattern.” The devotions in this book will cause you to create patterns that breath new life into your everyday moments. One of those everyday moments is around the table with your family. Seeing God through sharing a meal together stirs my heart for community deeply. Here’s a snippet of how she sees the table.
“Sometimes I think about the table of hospitality the same way. People who are invited in and given a seat at our table observe and receive relationship, provision, nurturing, and welcome in a way no mere invitation to church can provide. Instead of handing someone information about Jesus or an invitation to Easter service, or telling them that the gospel is life changing, we give them the opportunity to experience it through our hospitality. So much of Jesus ministry was done at the table.” What an encouragement to know that we don’t have to go far but we can start around our table and if our table needs filled we can bring others in to show them Jesus as we break bread. Not only are you invited to behold Him throughly the mundane moments in our lives, but also through the busy moments.
The invitation to stop the hustle and to sabbath well abounds in this book. Throughout the book there two page spreads of gorgeous artwork and in them you will find practical suggestions for ways we can enter into be rest of the Lord. Ruth, reminds us that, “cutting corners on rest doesn’t get you ahead.” She urges us to “fight to abide.” There is so much richness in this book and I am so grateful to have read it beforehand but I am so looking forward to holding it in my hands, but most of all I am ready to make space for this book to be a daily reminder that I am His and he abides in me. A must have for everyone and one to constantly refer back through the ups and downs of life.

scientist_hannah's review against another edition

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slow-paced

4.0

pkgonzales7's review against another edition

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hopeful inspiring reflective slow-paced

3.5

Beautiful illustrations and thoughtful, Biblically-rooted inspiring messages and reminders 

katherine_alexis's review against another edition

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inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.0

ejbasile's review against another edition

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4.0

This will be a re-listen again in the future or quite likely more of a paper book read so I can enjoy her artwork throughout the book. 4 stars!

shawn_cernik's review against another edition

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5.0

When I asked a friend if she had heard of this book she said yes and proceeded to say it is to be sipped and savored. She is not wrong. What an encouraging and beautiful book!

abbysgoodreads's review against another edition

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5.0

Beautiful is the first notable thing about this book. The paintings and images are a delight to look at. The devotions are good, not super in depth or challenging but encouraging if you’re looking for a soft place to land or connection point in your day.

carolejt's review against another edition

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4.0

Practical, insightful truths, encouraging reminders and beautiful artwork to point us to everday worship and relationship with God.

megchaneywrites's review against another edition

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5.0

I love her books, and her artwork. She is someone who really speaks to my heart. I live the way this book is divided up, it's perfect for devotions first thing in the morning. I would highly recommend!

kamarialtaylor's review against another edition

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hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0