Anne Graham Lotz

Acceptance onto the launch team for Jesus in Me was a bit of a pinch-me moment, to be perfectly honest. I mean, Anne Graham Lotz — talk about a top-of-the-list name! Everyone knows who she is, or at least who her dad was.

Jesus in Me focuses on the third person of the Trinity – the Holy Spirit. Chock full of Scripture, the book makes me realize why Billy Graham called his daughter “the best preacher in the family.” Wow.

Lotz writes so approachably — she makes a mysterious topic both show more more mysterious and less so. Perhaps a better way to put it: she helps the reader test the waters of something and Someone we can always know more! We can’t ever hit a limit of knowing all there is to know about God.

Chapters are short, direct, and to the point, allowing the reader to engage even when short on time. Lotz uses real-life examples, both from her own and others’ experiences, to illustrate biblical truths; she also is quick to include the hard stories — ones that don’t have happy endings or even resolutions, period. She freely acknowledges our own limitations as humans. (This encourages me greatly; if Billy Graham’s daughter can say that, I don’t feel so bad … LOL! It’s not just me!?!) Many chapters end with a reflection, which could be used as a journaling prompt or opportunity to dive further into the Word or prayer.

Jesus in Me is definitely a book I’ll revisit over the years. It will surely get better with multiple rereads (hey, kind of like the Bible). show less

What do you think of when you hear the name "Billy Graham"? Or even his daughter's name, "Anne Graham Lotz"?

Many a time, I catch myself thinking, "They must have astounding spiritual lives. Never a difficulty, never anything." Heh. Lotz is quick to note in this her latest release that that is not remotely the case. What comfort! She's human, and so was her dad! And isn't it the truth that spiritual growth occurs more deeply in the forges of adversity? We certainly see that here with "The show more Light of His Presence"; Lotz shares prayers she's written over time and across a variety of topics: from missions to the future, confession to overcoming evil with good. Interspersed with striking pictures and moving quotes on prayer, the book is an excellent resource for any believer, regardless of where they find themselves in their walk with Christ.

I appreciated Lotz's forthrightness; she admits that she herself has struggled with prayer over the years, whether not knowing what to say, going through dry spells, or even frankly falling asleep mid-prayer. (I'm sure I've shaken my head before at the disciples falling asleep while Jesus went off to pray in the Garden; let's face it, we all would've done the same thing.) So this book means even more because it's personal, relatable, and real--it's not a self-help book on "how you, too, can have an epic prayer life in 7 days!" No ... it reflects life, and it reflects our Savior. A powerful read and one to revisit throughout the year and regardless of where you find yourself in life.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own. show less

In one of the most engaging Christian books I've read in months, Anne Graham Lotz discusses the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. Drawing heavily from Scripture and relating life experiences to which the reader can relate, she examines the Spirit's role as a constant companion and takes us through the roles Scripture gives to this part of the Trinity. She encourages readers to spend time in the Word and in prayer. I will seek other books by Lotz to use in my devotional times show more as I appreciated her writing style. show less

“Preparing To Meet Jesus” by Ann Graham Lotz and Rachel-Ruth Wright is a 21-day Bible study/Devotional based on Genesis 21, the story of Rebekah. Together, they bring verse by verse the quality and characteristics of Rebekah as the chosen wife for Isaac.

Each day’s entry begins with a deep explanation of each verse being studied as well as includes short story/ anecdote, and a challenge to the reader regarding their own preparation as we prepare to be the bride of the coming King Jesus. show more And as Rebekah shows, are we ready to meet him? Do we wonder about Him? Do we long for Him? Are we ready for our bridegroom? Several chapters in this book touched me and caused me to take a deep look at my own life, attitudes, and preparedness for eternity.

In my opinion, perhaps the best daily entry is from Day 2: “Have you ever envisioned that glorious day when Jesus will appear? Have you wondered about what He will find you doing – or possibly catch you doing? The Bible says that He will come suddenly, like a thief in the night. There will be no five-minute warning. You won’t be able to call a time-out to stop the argument you’re in the middle of, break off your adulterous affair, get sober after you’ve had too much to drink, change the conversation at your gossipy luncheon, put your phone down and open the Bible, shift from angry words to joyful praise in traffic, or stay late and help your co-worker instead of rushing home after work. His coming will be swift. What will he find you doing?”

I would put this book as one of my favorites as I begin again on Day One and look deeper into my personal readiness and preparations to meet my King!

#PreparingtoMeetJesus #NetGalley

Disclosure: I received this book free via Net Galley. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. show less