review

This post is going to be a bit different. I received a complimentary copy of the Busy Mom's Devotional Bible. In return, I am supposed to post a review of it. So here goes.

My main study Bible is a Ryrie, and it's kind of falling apart from frequent use. So it was exciting to receive a cute new Bible. I really love the feminine colors and the easy-to-carry size of this Bible. It has that "new Bible" smell, which is fun. ;)

The devotions included in the Bible are broken down into one minute, five minutes, and ten minutes. Each ends with a thought to carry with you or reflect upon throughout the day. I liked having the option to choose a longer or shorter reading, and I especially liked that it didn't end with the reading itself; you got something to take with you.

The devotions aren't terribly deep (how deep can you go in one minute?), but they DO contain good reminders and encouraging insights. References were given for further reading, and one could use these as a springboard for more in-depth study.

But that really isn't the design of this Bible. It's for the super-busy mom who just needs a really quick time in the Word and then she's off. I actually think it would make a GREAT gift for moms of newborns. The short readings would be ideal for that season of life when finding time for a shower is difficult, never mind finding time for Bible study! One reviewer mentioned reading a devotional while zapping something in the microwave, simply to refocus and recharge in the middle of the day. That would be a wonderful use for this Bible as well.

But I don't think it should be your only time with the Lord for very long. Let's face it; if you can only find a minute in your day for God, you are going to starve spiritually. Revamp your schedule if you're really that busy.

On a more personal note, the Bible is New International Version (NIV), and I much prefer the New American Standard (NAS). But that is my own preference and doesn't really count against the devotional Bible concept. I probably will only use the Bible on occasion, because I am more the "study Bible" type than the "devotional Bible" type. But for what it's trying to accomplish, I think this Bible does a very nice job.