Cynthia Heald

This is a short book which examines the characteristics of an excellent woman according to the Bible. Each chapter focuses on a particular quality, whether purity, wisdom, meekness, etc. Some chapters were better than others, but each is mostly composed of topical scripture readings meant to essentially give the reader a sense of the Biblical definition of these qualities. This was at times extremely revelatory and, at others, rather tedious.

Overall, I got a lot out of this book, but I think show more it might have been more effective if large passages of scripture were examined at length. Some of the verse references seemed taken out of context or very tangential to the topic at hand. Sometimes these little snippets of scripture seem to over-simplify or be a bit too pat. show less

Cynthia Heald has written a different sort of devotional book which offers us an intimate guide to becoming like Jesus. “In each lesson, you will consider how Jesus lived on earth, how we can reflect him, what Scripture tells us, and how we can pray about what has been revealed to us.”

Heald focuses on “God’s purpose and process of transformation, as well as the most notable human qualities of Jesus that we have been either commanded or instructed to reflect in our lives.”

The six show more lesson subjects are-
God’s Master Plan
Beholding
Holy Obedience
The Humble Servant
Unconditional Love
Trusting God’s Plan

The intent of each lesson is to encourage the reader to pursue Christlikeness, draw in to Scripture, and reflect/discuss the lesson. This devotional is set up as a six-week Bible study for a small group but can also be read alone as a personal devotional.

Each chapter ends with an outline of (or a return to) God’s plan with scripture references and questions that allow the reader to go deeper within their own journey.

I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review. show less

If I could quote from the Preface of this book it summarizes the purpose of the book very well: "I stand in the need of spending time in prayer", "to deepen your understanding of prayer so that you can pray more effectively and draw closer to our Lord. . .", "The underlying principle of prayer, which overwhelmed me, is that God desires to be intimate with me and He wants this relationship so much that He invites, encourages and helps me to pray".

The author does a great job of helping you show more understand the purpose and goal of our prayer life. She uses a lot of scripture, which I always appreciate, and also found some excellent quotes from great men and women of the faith that I also greatly enjoyed. As I flip back through the pages of this book, I am amazed at all the underlining and highlighting I did as I read. Which means there is a lot that I want to go back to and re-read. This was taught at our ladies Bible study on prayer and is very easy to use as she gives questions to answer with scripture to look up on prayer. show less

Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Becoming a Woman of Excellence: 30th Anniversary Edition by Cynthia Heald, © 2016

Now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you whatever you ask, for all my people in the city know that you are a woman of excellence. Ruth 3:11

My Review:
I participated in a Bible study of the first edition of this book. In this 30th edition revised and updated edition, the author shares her journey of excellence as "a certified older woman." How wonderful to have a seasoned mentor:

As show more I reflect on these past decades, I'm amazed that I continue to ask, "What would a woman of excellence do?" Using this question to determine my choices and setting my heart to "approve the things that are excellent" (Philippians 1:10) has served to guide and protect me in special ways. It is a priceless blessing to look back over my life and have few regrets.
One of the key verses in my life now is Psalm 7l:18: "Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me" (NLT). So it is with much thankfulness to God that I commit this study to all who come after me. May you discover the great joy of taking God at His word and walking with Him daily in order to become a woman of excellence who brings Him honor and glory.
--author Cynthia Heald

The first chapter begins with defining excellence ~ from the biblical view of excellence, or in the search for excellence how most people would define it? I like the quotes and references included throughout the study, along with "thoughts and reflections from an older woman" written by the author in this renewed study guide. A foundational memory Scripture begins each chapter, looking at specific Scriptures within each topic, and questions directed toward applying what is learned. There is a Notes section in the back, along with a leader's guide, directing to further reading referenced within each chapter excellence.

It's not about achieving, but being. I like how the author guides through Scripture and questions to how it applies, adding to our lives in a simplistic way rather than striving. God's virtues are becoming and alive as we specifically apply Scripture to our lives as a lifelong process. To become ~ "to grow into, to come to be, to undergo change or development, to be transformed."

If you are looking for a new fall study, individually or for a study group, this would be an excellent choice for women of all ages, single or married. The study contains: the goal worth pursuing, God's character, and becoming like Christ; the cost rooted in surrender and exemplified by obedience; the prize molded by discipline, guarded by discretion, made precious by a gentle and quiet spirit, perfected by purity, and proclaimed by wisdom; the praise portrayed in the life of a godly woman.

***Thank you to Tyndale Blog Network for sending me a review copy of Becoming a Woman of Excellence. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***

Cynthia Heald ~ Author of Becoming a Woman Bible Study series and numerous other books and devotionals. show less