Monday, December 1, 2014

NIV Discover God's Heart Devotional Bible - A Review







A Review


It has been nearly 30 years since I had the opportunity to sit in on a Walk Thru the Bible seminar and had the opportunity to purchase their Study Bible (now out of print).  This new devotional Bible does not replace the older work, but of value to the believer looking at a way into the scriptures on a regular basis.


The NIV (2011) provides the backbone upon which the 300+ devotions are built.  The devotions are designed to be read one per day during the week and one each weekend.  Each of the devotions includes three sections:


God’s Story summarize the section of scripture being read.
The King’s Heart reflects on what we learn about God from the passage.
Insight provides additional trivia or information about the passage.


 In addition to the devotions, each Bible book provides a one-page introduction exploring how the book fits into Biblical history.  This introduction includes a brief outline providing details about each book’s author, audience, date, and themes.  For this reader, the most valuable addition is a set of six reading plans almost hidden in the rear of the book:


  1. A Tour of the Bible (90 Days - 60 OT Readings and 30 NT Readings)
  2. 30 Days For New Christians
  3. 30 Days With Jesus
  4. 30 Themes in Psalms
  5. 30 Stories You’ve Probably Never Heard
  6. 30 Stories of Love and Friendship


This edition of the Bible would make an excellent gift for a new believer - but it would also do well to be read by any believer looking to refresh his or her walk with God.  Though the devotional are not particularly practical, they are insightful and opened this reader’s eyes to truth he had not seen before.  Though I would prefer a more practical approach, I was not disappointed in what I found.
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This review is based on a free copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review.  The opinions expressed are my own.


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