Preparing to Meet Jesus: A 21-Day Challenge to Move from Salvation to Transformation (Hardcover)

This 21 day devotional follows the account of Abraham searching out a wife for his son, Isaac. Abraham's servant is sent to find a woman of character, someone who will live as a helpmeet for Isaac. Authors Anne Graham Lotz and daughter Rachel-Ruth draw parallels to the heart of God the Father as he too searches out a bride for his son, Jesus. What kind of bride is He searching for? And how can Christians better embody those characteristics? This quick read devotional mostly focuses on a fictionalized examination of Rebekah. What must she have been like to be considered for Isaac's bride. What characteristics did she exhibit? What fears did she have for her new life? Each day is practical and easy to read. The authors do, however, take quite a bit of creative liberty with Rebekah's story. Some chapters felt like they were stretching to make a point. While I do believe Rebekah was a woman of honor, some days felt like this devotional was reaching for something that wasn't supported by Scripture. One such is example was the inferrence that Rebekah fell in love with Isaac through the servant's stories. While the story is a bit romanticized, the life giving principles are sound. Serving others, living with integrity, and showing compassion are all qualities that will serve one well in preparing to meet Jesus and living a life of virtue. Overall it was an enjoyable read. And if some artistic liberties don't bother the reader, the heart lessons in this devotional will very well lead to a life transformed. *Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.