Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Unto the Hills by Billy Graham

"Discouragement stems from disbelief." Billy Graham describes some situations of how it looks when we are just not trusting God when we're in difficult circumstances. As he described some scenarios, I agreed wholeheartedly. I thought, "Yes, I totally see that in my friend. She just needs to believe God!"

And then, I got discouraged. I was feeling down and out as I wiped off the counter. Into my mind popped, "Discouragement stems from disbelief." Wow. The thought hit me like a ton of bricks when it was aimed at me. I couldn't see what I wasn't believing God for. I don't remember what I was discouraged about now but I sure remember the conviction that came when this little thought popped into my head.

It wasn't apparent to me what I wasn't trusting God for in my own situation but it sure was easy to see it in someone else. So, I asked the Lord to show me where I wasn't trusting Him. "Help me in my unbelief."

This is just one example of how I am enjoying the devotional Unto the Hills by Billy Graham that has been re-released for a new generation of believers. The tone is calm, steady and soothing even though at times it is convicting. The format starts with a Bible verse written in full at the top. There is an anecdote or some thoughts on the subject, many times with additional Bible verses in the main text. Each day's entry concludes with a prayer. I have particularly enjoyed the prayers at the end of each entry.

As an interesting aside, I actually like to look up the verses in my own Bible rather than having them printed out for me. I look them up and write them down in a notebook. Often, I will read and write some of the surrounding verses as well. I usually do this before I read the entry for the day. Often I am encouraged by something that the author has to say but I do enjoy the direct time with God, too.

I highly recommend this devotional to others, especially for those seeking a guide for daily Bible readings.

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How about you? Have you ever used this devotional or another that you would recommend to others?

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.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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Welcome if you are visiting from there.
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6 comments:

  1. I like that quote. One of my favorite Bible moments is the one where the father tells Jesus "I belief, but help my doubt." I identitfy. But this idea of discouragement being born of disbelief resonated with me. The Lord wants nothing but good for me, so when something is not going my way even as I've been praying for it, I have to know He has bigger plans. I have seen this over and over and yet, each time I get discouraged, I seem to forget.

    And yes, my last blog on toilet issues was inspired by yours!:)

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  2. I think the fact that you look them up and write them down is such a good tip, especially if one wants to start memorizing the scripture. And reading before and after is so good for context.

    We just bought Jeus Calling (the kid version) to start doing at the dinner table. So far so good!

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  3. Seeing the verses, reading them, makes them more vivid in your mind and heart.

    What a blessing to have the book so close to you.

    Maria.

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  4. Thanks! I needed to hear that today.

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  5. I LOVE God Calling...it seems that every day it's directed just at me.

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  6. Great to find you through Finding Heaven's Blog Hop!

    I recommend My Utmost for His Highest. Challenging, yet inspiring!

    I am you newest follower through Google Friend Connect.

    Have a blessed day!

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Thanks for being part of the conversation...I love hearing from you. Kathleen

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