Cathy Bryant's Blog: CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog, page 12
December 8, 2015
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 6 -Your 6th Prize to Win
Hover your cursor over the image to share to Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest. Thank you!Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 6!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/
Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
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12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 6
The sixth prize up for grabs is a print copy of THE FRAGRANCE OF CRUSHED VIOLETS (4.7 stars with 21 reviews), the LifeSword Bible study on forgiveness written as a companion study to the fifth Miller’s Creek novel, A BRIDGE UNBROKEN. The Bible study is suitable for both group and individual study.
NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!
Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $8):
“Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.” – Mark TwainTHE FRAGRANCE OF CRUSHED VIOLETS
How can we break the chains of unforgiveness?
What do we do when someone seems determined to bring us down through an attack? How do we deal with meaningless acts of destruction and death, especially when the offender shows no remorse?
In short, how do we move past the hurt and anger to a place of forgiveness?
The Fragrance of Crushed Violets examines relevant scriptures for the purpose of building a Biblical understanding of:
what forgiveness is and what it isn’t
God’s role in the process of forgiveness
what Jesus did at the cross for each of us
our mandate to forgive as we’ve been forgiven
what gets in the way of forgiving others
how to truly forgive
“This book was perfect for a study group in church. Forgiveness is a huge part of being a Christian, and Christ tells us to forgive over and over again. Short but sweet study. Would recommend.” ~Amazon reviewer
The Fragrance of Crushed Violets – Read the First Chapter
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 6 – A Print Copy of THE FRAGRANCE OF CRUSHED VIOLETS
This is a one-day drawing (December 8, 2015) for a print copy of THE FRAGRANCE OF CRUSHED VIOLETS ($8 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.
More Giveaways and Deals
Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:
$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
BELIEVE & KNOW (LifeSword Bible study on defending the faith) on sale for 99-cents (December 8-14, 2015).
The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 6 -Your 6th Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
Walk Through the WORD Acts 20-23
Hover your cursor over this pic to share our Bible study on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Click on the appropriate button. Thank you!Walk Through the WORD Previous Posts
Today we walk through the Word Acts 20-23. Join us as we walk together through the Word of God–to better know Him and make Him known, to gain strength for the journey as we grow in our faith, and to join our hearts in unity as the body of Christ.
Acts 1-3
Acts 4-6
Acts 7-8
Acts 9-10
Acts 11-12
Acts 13-14
Acts 15-16
Acts 17:16-19:41
Acts 20-23
When we last left off, Paul and his companions were in dire straits. A riot broke out at Ephesus over the temple of Diana. Two of the disciples, Gaius and Aristarchus, were carried to the theater by the angry mob. Thankfully, the city clerk was able to calm the crowd. We pick up the story in today’s account of the rest of this missionary journey of Paul, one that will land him in even further trouble.
Walk Through the WORD Acts 20-23
Read: Acts 20:1-38
Key Points:
{vss. 1-6} In the aftermath of the Ephesus riots, Paul quickly gathered the disciples for the purpose of encouraging them. Next he traveled throughout Macedonia for the same purpose. I can’t help but make the connection to the troublesome times in which we live. Have you noticed how Christians are being made out as the enemy in our society today? Even in a place founded upon the principles and values of God and His Word? We must get ourselves ready for this to get even worse. And our response? Don’t be afraid. Keep on speaking up. And especially: Encourage one another. The word “encourage” actually means to instill courage. Press on, brothers and sisters in Christ! Our salvation and hope is sure and secure!
{vss. 7-12} Notice that the disciples gathered on the first day of the week. Could it be that this was when followers of Christ began to meet on Sunday in celebration of Christ’s resurrection from the dead? Paul had much to say to these believers before he left, so he preached throughout the day, into the night, and on until the following morning. Wow! That’s some heavy duty teaching! I love that Luke uses the words “Paul talked on and on.” Unfortunately, a young man named Eutychus who couldn’t keep his eyes open. He fell from a window of the third story of the building, and landed on the ground, dead. Paul quickly brought him back to life. Notice that the people took Eutychus home alive and were “greatly comforted.” A miracle like this lends much credence to who our God is. He protects and provides for those who belong to him. No wonder they were comforted. In spite of persecution and perilous times, they had the assurance of God’s presence with them through His Holy Spirit.
{vss. 13-21} These verses spell out the travels of Paul and his companions and clearly state Paul’s objective. He intends to arrive in Jerusalem by the Day of Pentecost. In Miletus he sends for the elders of the church in Ephesus. He reminds them of his service to the church in Ephesus in spite of heavy opposition from the Jews. And the way he served was with humility and tears, not hesitant to share anything that would be helpful for them. He did this both publicly and from house to house. To both the Jews and the Greeks, he preached repentance and faith. This is a great example to leaders of our churches today. If we can serve those underneath us with humility and tears, sharing anything helpful for them, and preaching both repentance and faith. But having been involved in church work for many years, I must say that this can be extremely difficult, especially when faced by opposition from within the church.
{vss. 22-24} Paul then delivers startling news. He tells them that he feels compelled by God’s Spirit to return to Jerusalem, but knows supernaturally that both prison and hardships await him. Remember that Paul was once a devout Jew, who in a dramatic conversion experience, changed from being a persecutor of God’s people to a missionary for Christ. There were many in Jerusalem who hated him. Then we hear words very similar to much of his epistolary writings. His life means nothing to him compared to finishing the course laid out before him by Jesus, the task of bearing testimony to the gospel of God’s grace. (See also 2 Timothy 4:7.) I’m awed by Paul’s example, but I’m also puzzled by the world’s response to the greatest news ever. For me personally, this story lends even more authenticity to the capital-T Truth of God’s Word and plans for good toward mankind, many of whom reject His message of grace.
{vss. 25-31} Surely these church leaders were saddened by Paul’s next comment. He would never see them again. He states that he was indeed innocent of the blood of all men, because he had not failed in his mission to proclaim God’s will. I think this is a point that bear further scrutiny. As believers, we’ve been entrusted with great treasure. And though it’s tempting to keep it to ourselves, that defeats the purpose for what we’ve been given. God’s good news is meant to be shared. In fact, we’re commanded to share it in the Great Commission of Matthew 28:18-20 and other places: Mark 16:15-16; Acts 1:8; Acts 2:39; Romans 10:12-15; Psalms 96:3; Isaiah 12:4; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20; Proverbs 11:30; 1 Peter 3:15. Why does Paul mention that he is free from the blood of all men? These passages from the book of Ezekiel make it clear that as followers of God, we are made watchmen. Please take a moment to read Ezekiel 3:17-20 and Ezekiel 33:8-9. We’re not just responsible for ourselves, but for those God has placed in our path. Encourage them with God’s good news and bring them to the throne room of God’s grace and mercy. Paul then gives the church elders these specific instructions:
Keep watch over yourselves and those God has placed under your charge.
Be shepherds of God’s flock, which He bought/ransomed/redeemed with His blood.
Watch out for wolves, some of which would come from among those in their number, who would attempt to draw away disciples after themselves (1 Timothy 1:3-7).
Remember the warnings he (Paul) had given them with tears.
{vss. 32-38} Paul concludes by committing them to God and the Word of His grace. When we reach a place of separating from those under our care, this is a great example. As a mother, my heart and thoughts lean toward my children and grandchildren. When I’m away from them, I commit them to God’s care, provision, and protection, as the One who loves them even more than I do, the One who’s grace is sufficient. This same Word of His grace gives us as an eternal inheritance among the saints, our brothers and sisters in the Lord. It can and will build us up together in Him. Paul reminds them of his practice of working with his hands to provide for his own needs and the needs of others, rather than being dependent upon those underneath him. He sets this as an example for all believers, that we should work in order to give to others, rather than hoard it for ourselves. In eternal truth, we keep only that which we give away. In conclusion, Paul prayed with and for them. There were tears and hugs and grief, knowing they would never again see each other upon the earth. I can only speak for myself, but I take great comfort in knowing that earthly goodbyes among believers are not the end. If we hold firm to the faith we profess, we have an assured hope of one day being reunited for all eternity with each other and our God.
Read: Acts 21:1-40
Key Points:
{vss. 1-6} In this passage, we see Paul and his crew making their way back to Syria. Notice the words used to describe the separation from Paul and the elders of the Ephesian church. They had to tear themselves away. Earthly partings can be painful, and I’m sure it was this way for both Paul and the leaders of the church. We see with clarity the same resolve from Paul to go to Jerusalem (in spite of the pleas from the church in Syria that he stay with them) that Jesus had right before He was arrested, condemned, and crucified. Sometimes difficult tasks lay before us. They’re not easy to understand, but God has His reasons for allowing them. Even in the face of imprisonment and death, we must stay true to our Lord and His plans and purposes, with complete assurance and trust that He will ultimately use it for our good and His glory.
{vss. 7-16} The journey toward Jerusalem continues. At Caesarea, Paul and his team join up with Philip the evangelist (Act 8:4-40) and his four unmarried and prophesying daughters. A very troubling occurrence through a prophet by the name of Agabus once more reveals what awaits Paul in Jerusalem. Agabus bind the hands of Paul and tells him that the Holy Spirit has revealed that the Jews would bind Paul and turn him over to imperial Rome (the Gentiles). And once more, the people of The Way plead with Paul to reconsider. In spite of their weeping, Paul remains committed to the task and tells them that he is willing not just to be bound, but to die if necessary. Finally the others let up, themselves committed to God’s will. The lesson here for us is that we too must reach the place of complete surrender to God and His will, even if the expected outcome is frightening. Scriptures throughout the Bible reveal that like Jesus and Paul, we must even be ready to face earthly death for our Lord (Matthew 10:28; Romans 14:8; Revelation 12:11). We must not get so caught up in this life that we forget the life to come. We must remember that for now we live in enemy territory. The day may come–like it has for many around the world–where we must choose between our human life and Christ (Matthew 10:32-33; Luke 12:8-9). It behooves us to prepare ourselves ahead of time to remain true to our Lord and Savior. Back to the story of Paul and his travelling companions (including Luke, who wrote the book of Acts), they move on to Jerusalem and stay at the house of Mnason, one of the early disciples.
{vss. 17-26} Paul was warmly greeted by the brothers in Jerusalem and all met together with James, the half-brother of Jesus and the leader of the Jerusalem church. When Paul reported all that had happened through his ministry with the Gentiles, a praise session broke out. Then the seriousness of Paul’s plight was once more addressed. The old division between Judaism and Christianity quickly reappeared. Paul was reputed in Jerusalem as teaching that the law of Moses was unnecessary for believers, a very serious matter to the Jews. Their suggestion was to take part in the Nazarite vows with four other men to prove to the Jews that Paul was still Jewish in addition to being Christian. Paul follows through with their suggestion–perhaps as his way of being all things to all men, so that he might win some (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). He then went to the temple to give notice of when the purification rites would be completed and the offering given for each of them.
{vss. 27-36} In a scene eerily similar to the Jewish mob who demanded Jesus’ death, Paul was seized by the Jews and taken outside the gates for a stoning. Word reached the commander of the Roman troops, and he quickly stepped in with his soldiers. When he could not get a consensus, the commander arrested Paul, had him bound with chains, and escorted to the barracks. The mob grew so violent, crying out for Paul’s death, that Paul had to be carried by the soldiers.
{vss. 37-40a} Like Peter, Paul used the gathered crowd as an opportunity to witness for the Lord. He asked the soldiers for permission to speak. An interesting detail is added here, as the commander wants to know if Paul is the Egyptian who previously led a revolt. Perhaps this detail was added as further historical proof that the Bible is true. Josephus, a historian of the day, recorded such an event in AD 54. Paul quickly answers that He is a Jew from Tarsus and a citizen of no ordinary city. (Paul was, in fact, a Roman citizen by birth, which gave him special rights.) He once more makes the request to speak to the angry mob.
Read: Acts 21:1-30
Key Points:
{vss. 20:40b-21:21} The moment Paul begins to speak to them in Aramaic, the common language of the Jews of the day, the crowd grew quiet. Paul simply relates the story of his conversion and how God had sent him–in spite of his history as a persecutor of followers of The Way–to the Gentiles to proclaim the truth of Jesus. The lesson here for us is that our message to others only has to be a simple testimony of how we came to know God and how He has moved in our lives. It may not seem like much, but our God has a history of using our little to bring about much good.
{vss. 22-30} The crowd erupted once more at Paul’s statement of being sent to the Gentiles. We must remember that the Jews–because of their past history with Jehovah God–believed they were the only ones privy to God as His chosen people. They believed this in spite of the Old Testament prophets who clearly stated that God’s Word was for all the nations. They immediately shouted again for Paul’s death. The commander order that Paul be taken into the barracks to flog him. This whole scenario seems scary and heart-pounding to us, but let’s not miss the big picture. Paul was handed the God-given opportunity to testify before many people, including world powers, to the Truth of God. He can and will use us in the same way, if we submit to His Lordship over our lives. Returning to the story, Paul quickly plays his trump card: he was a Roman citizen. The centurion in charge of the flogging immediately took the news to the commander. In turn, the commander questioned Paul about his citizenship, stating that he had to pay a big price for his citizenship. During this time, Claudius, the emperor of Rome, allowed people to purchase the rights of Roman citizenship for a high price. Paul’s parents had done this before his birth, so Paul was born a a Roman citizen. This greatly alarmed the commander because he had put Paul in chains. The next day the commander released Paul, brought in the Sanhedrin (the Jewish governing body, and brought Paul to stand before them for yet another opportunity to witness to the Truth.
Read: Acts 23:1-35.
Key Points:
{vss. 1-11} Paul begins by declaring his innocence and clear conscience. Ananias, the high priest, ordered those near by to hit Paul in the mouth. Paul quickly uses terminology that Jesus had used, by calling him a white-washed wall. This was meant to infer that the man looked good from the outside, but was inside filled with corruption and deceit and all things ugly. Ananias stood in judgment against Paul according to the law, but himself lived above and beyond the law, hypocrisy at its finest. Once Paul learned that he had addressed the high priest, he apologized according to God’s Word in Exodus 22:28. In a very shrewd move, Paul identifies himself with the sect of the Pharisees, only on trial for believing in the resurrection of the dead. Why was this a shrewd move? Because the Sanhedrin was made of both Pharisees (who believed in resurrection) and the Sadducees (who didn’t). This immediately divided the Sanhedrin. Now the Pharisees declared Paul innocent. The dispute roared to life and violence erupted. The commander feared for Paul’s life, so he ordered the troops to take Paul to the barracks. That night, for the fourth time (Acts 9:5; Acts 18:9-10; Acts 22:17-18; and here), Jesus appeared to Paul to inform him not to be afraid, because next he would testify about Jesus in the very center of the world of that day…Rome.
{vss. 12-22} Playing out like a thriller movie, forty men developed a plot to kill Paul. His nephew got wind of it, reported the news to Paul, who in turn, had his nephew report to the commander, where he was told not to mention it to anyone else.
{vss. 23-35} The commander immediately had Paul transferred to Caesarea and Governor Felix, along with a large detachment of soldiers. Felix told Paul he would hear his case and put him under guard in the palace of Herod, until the accusers arrived. God was at work, even in the most trying of times for Paul.
Walk Through the WORD Acts 20-23 Wrap-Up
Prayerfully consider the following questions. Feel free to add to our study by sharing in the comments below.
What are your thoughts on encouraging fellow believers? Do you think this is as necessary in our day as in was back in Paul’s day? Why or why not?
Put yourself in the all night meeting with Paul. How would you have reacted to the situation with Eutychus? Would it have helped your faith? If so, how?
Can you recall a time in your personal experience when you had to say goodbye to a trusted leader or friend? How did you get through the pain of such separation?
What qualities of leadership do we see in Paul in these passages?
What can we learn from Paul’s determination to return to Jerusalem, in spite of the hardships that awaited? How can we model this same sort of determination today?
Why is our responsibility to carry out the Great Commission a heavy load? How do the passages in Ezekiel (listed above) bear testimony to this fact? How should this change us?
Have you ever come across any “wolves” in your time in the church? How was the situation resolved? Looking back, what could you have done differently?
In some passages, Paul seems to favor the approach of minister and missionaries supporting themselves. In others, he tells us that a “workman is worthy of his hire” and not to “muzzle the ox while he is treading the grain.” How do you account for these opposite takes on the ministry? What are your thoughts on how people in positions of ministry are to be treated?
Do you think you could be faithful to Jesus, even in the face of death? If not, do you feel compelled to prepare yourself for this possibility?
How do you feel about Paul taking part in the Jewish rites of purification, as suggested by the leaders of the Jerusalem church?
How do you see God moving in the events that lead to Paul being seized for death and his subsequent arrest and “trials?”
All Posts in Our Study of Acts:
Acts 1-3
Acts 4-6
Acts 7-8
Acts 9-10
Acts 11-12
Acts 13-14
Acts 15-16
Acts 17-18:17
Acts 18:18-19:41
Act 20-23
The post Walk Through the WORD Acts 20-23 appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
December 7, 2015
SPOTLIGHT: 3 Beautiful Autographed Books For You Here
Please share this Goodreads giveaway on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest by hovering your cursor over the image. Thank you!Like autographed books? Then you’re in the right place, because Goodreads and I are giving away three beautiful autographed books of PIECES ON EARTH.
Goodreads #Giveaway 3 autographed #Books PIECES ON EARTH #amreading 4.9* #ChristianFiction
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Autographed Books – The Message of PIECES ON EARTH
We only have to turn on our televisions or computers to see devastating and scary news of the lack of peace on our earth.
In addition, none of us are immune to life storms that hit unexpectedly, stealing our breath away in their intensity, and leaving in their wake shattered lives and broken pieces.
Especially at Christmas time, it is easy to look at life’s pieces and wonder if there can truly be such a thing as peace.
The answer is thankfully, YES!
But it’s not peace as the world defines it. We live in enemy territory, marked by persecution, war, and chaos. “World” peace is a myth.
The great good news is that God’s peace–unfathomable, making us whole and complete–is available. It’s just a matter of keeping our focus in the right place.
Autographed Books – About PIECES ON EARTH
PIECES ON EARTH
Christian Christmas novella ~ 4.9 stars
Can she find God’s peace in life’s pieces?
As a young mother and wife of a naval aviator in sunny Pensacola, Florida, Liv Tulley eagerly anticipates the first Christmas in several years with her husband, daughter, and extended family. Then her husband is unexpectedly deployed for an undetermined amount of time, smashing her white Christmas dreams. She’s also shouldering a secret and battling anxiety. Can she find God’s peace in the midst of life’s pieces?
“In this novella, Cathy has beautifully combined the power of story with one of the best presentations of the gospel message that I’ve ever seen.” -Reviewer
Have you checked out the following? $200 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway, PIECES ON EARTH Virtual Book Tour & Giveaways, “12 Days of Christmas Giveaways”
Autographed Books – The Goodreads PIECES ON EARTH Giveaway
Goodreads Book Giveaway
Pieces on Earth
by Cathy Bryant
Giveaway ends December 21, 2015.
See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.
Want a free eBook copy of one of Cathy’s beloved Miller’s Creek novels? Click here to reserve your copy.
The post SPOTLIGHT: 3 Beautiful Autographed Books For You Here appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
December 6, 2015
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 5 -Your Fifth Prize to Win
Hover your cursor over the image to share to Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest. Thank you!Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 5!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/
Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
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12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 5
The fifth prize up for grabs is a print copy of A BRIDGE UNBROKEN, the fifth Miller’s Creek novel (rated at 4.8 stars).
NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!
Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $13):
A BRIDGE UNBROKENNot all scars are visible…
A frightened runaway wants her painful past to disappear. Her plan to start afresh is derailed when she co-inherits her late grandfather’s farm with her high school sweetheart, the one responsible for the scars on her heart. But he isn’t the only ghost from the past. Someone else is out to get her and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Will Chance and Dakota lay aside old wounds and grudges to restore the old farmhouse and bridge, or will evil forces sabotage their attempts to forgive?
“Cathy Bryant is a very gifted writer—this book kept me spellbound and it had several twists and turns—I cried at the end. Wonderful story!” ~Amazon reviewer
A Bridge Unbroken – Read the First 5 Chapters
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 5 – A Print Copy of A BRIDGE UNBROKEN
This is a one-day drawing (December 7, 2015) for a print copy of A BRIDGE UNBROKEN ($13 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.
More Giveaways and Deals
Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:
$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
THE WAY OF GRACE is on sale for 99-cents for Amazon Kindle (December 1-7, 2015)
The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 5 -Your Fifth Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
December 3, 2015
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 4 – Your Fourth Prize to Win
Hover your cursor over the image to share to Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest. Thank you!Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 3!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/
Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
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12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 4
The fourth prize up for grabs is a print copy of PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE, the fourth Miller’s Creek novel (rated at 4.6 stars), Amazon best-seller, and reader-nominated Grace award nominee.
NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!
Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $13):
PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE
A dusty stack of unopened love letters…
Even as high school sweethearts, Mona Beth Adams believed her Texas cowboy-rancher was the only man for her. But life intervened, stealing away the only man she’d ever love. Then a second chance reunites the couple until a dusty stack of unopened love letters and potentially terminal illness forces them to sift through the painful past. Only as they retrace history will they learn the truth about the broken promise that threatens to come between them. But can their relationship endure the deception and sabotage they unearth, or will the experience compel them to trust more fully in the promises that never fail?
“…Karen Kingsbury meets Nicholas Sparks.” ~Amazon reviewer
Pilgrimage of Promise – Read the First 5 Chapters
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 4 – A Print Copy of PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE
This is a one-day drawing (December 4, 2015) for a print copy of PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE ($13 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.
More Giveaways and Deals
Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:
$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
THE WAY OF GRACE is on sale for 99-cents for Amazon Kindle (December 1-7, 2015)
The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 4 – Your Fourth Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
December 2, 2015
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 3 -Your Third Prize To Win
Hover your cursor over the graphic to share on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thank you! :)Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 3!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/
Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
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12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 3
The third prize up for grabs is a print copy of THE WAY OF GRACE, the third Miller’s Creek novel (rated at 4.7 stars) and Amazon best-seller.
NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!
Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $13):
THE WAY OF GRACE
In pursuit of justice, in need of grace…
Gracie Soldano, a justice-seeking perfectionist fresh out of law school, dreams of a perfect life in her hometown of Miller’s Creek, Texas. How could it be possible that the perfect man–who just happens to be her handsome colleague–expresses an interest in someone like her? But then an old boyfriend shows up with his kind heart and less-than-perfect persona, warning her away from the new love interest and messing around with her dreams of perfection.
Then a fall at the hands of manipulative people leaves Gracie teetering between vengeance and grace. In an attempt to help those who seek her destruction, she’s inadvertently caught in the cross-fire of a personal vendetta, and in a split-second her perfect dreams disintegrate in a heap of ashes. Can she–especially in the face of life-altering circumstances–bestow on her enemies the grace and mercy God has lavished on her?
SPECIAL OFFER: THE WAY OF GRACE is currently on sale for Kindle for just $0.99!
The Way of Grace – Read the First 5 Chapters
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 3 – Print copy of THE WAY OF GRACE
This is a one-day drawing (December 3, 2015) for a print copy of THE WAY OF GRACE ($13 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.
Can Any Human Being Actually Comprehend Amazing Grace?
Hover your cursor over the image above to share on Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest.Is it humanly possible to truly comprehend God’s amazing grace?
That was the question in the back of my mind as I set out to write The Way of Grace. I wanted to fully explore, in story form, what grace truly was.
Amazing Grace – Definitions
As a child and even a young adult, I seemed to always hear the words “mercy and grace” used in tandem, almost as though one couldn’t exist independently of the other.
Only through writing The Way of Grace did I finally come to understand the difference between the two. Mix that in with justice and you get this:
Justice = when you get what you deserve.
Mercy = when you don’t get what you deserve.
Grace = when you get far more than you could ever deserve.
Does anyone else feel awed by God’s amazing grace? Like you can’t fully understand it? You know, one of those colossal truths that you can’t quite wrap your brain around?
Justice=getting what you deserve. Mercy=not getting what you deserve. But grace?…
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Amazing Grace – Better Than What We Know
I truly believe that God’s grace is amazing, but even more amazing than we can possibly know with our finite human minds and bodies.
But one day–praise be to God!–we will come to grips with exactly what our Savior did for us on the cross.
As we stand in the bliss of the new heaven and new earth God has prepared for us, we will understand with eye-opening clarity just how wonderful God’s amazing grace actually is.
The Way of Grace 99-Cent Sale
The Way of Grace is on sale for Kindle December 1-7, 2015 for 99-cents. For those of you not familiar with the book, here is the back-cover copy:
Christian Contemporary Romantic Mystery/Suspense
A small-town girl seeks a perfect life with the perfect man, but learns too late that all that glitters isn’t gold.
Gracie Soldano, a justice-seeking perfectionist fresh out of law school, dreams of a perfect life in her hometown of Miller’s Creek, Texas. How could it be possible that the perfect man–who just happens to be her handsome colleague–expresses an interest in someone like her? But then an old boyfriend shows up with his kind heart and less-than-perfect persona, warning her away from the new love interest and messing around with her dreams of perfection.
In a cruel twist, a fall at the hands of manipulative people leaves Gracie teetering between vengeance and grace. In an attempt to help those who seek her destruction, she’s inadvertently caught in the cross-fire of a personal vendetta, and in a split-second her perfect dreams disintegrate in a heap of ashes. Can she–especially in the face of life-altering circumstances–bestow on her enemies the grace and mercy God has lavished on her?
Other News
Don’t forget about the daily print copies of books I’m giving away in my 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS. (I’m also giving away eBook copies of the books each day on my Facebook author page. Find the pin post to enter. Tag a friend, and you both win!) You can find the list of prizes and links to daily posts here: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/
The blog tour for PIECES ON EARTH is going so well! I owe a huge debt of gratitude for these bloggers who have graciously allowed me space on their blogs to help spread the word about the book. Please take a minute to visit some of these sites to help out these sweet friends. You’ll find the list here: http://www.catbryant.com/book-tour-poe/
Along with the POE Virtual Book Tour, I’m giving away a $200 Amazon gift card. You can enter the giveaway drawing here: http://www.catbryant.com/win-a-200-amazon-gift-card/
The post Can Any Human Being Actually Comprehend Amazing Grace? appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
December 1, 2015
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2 -Your Second Prize to Win
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UPDATE: And the winner of the paperback copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED in the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2 is…Angela W! I’ve sent you an email, Angela, so keep an eye on your inbox. Thanks so much to all of you for joining the fun! 
Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 2!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2
The second prize up for grabs in the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2 is a print copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED, the second Miller’s Creek novel (rated at 4.5 stars) and Amazon best-seller.
NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!
Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $13):
A PATH LESS TRAVELED
A grief-stricken single mom, her traumatized little boy, and the new lawyer in town who loves them both…
Trish James is tired of being rescued. When a spooked horse claims her husband’s life, she’s determined to blaze a path for herself and her traumatized son without outside help. Unfortunately, her attempts to run her own business as an artist and wedding planner just doesn’t pay the bills. But will that mean leaving her hometown of Miller’s Creek–the place etched on her heart?
Andy Tyler has had to struggle for everything, and starting a new law practice in Miller’s Creek, Texas is no different. Though prepared for business challenges, he’s not prepared for falling in love–especially with yet another woman who will probably abandon him for her career.
Will Andy and Trish be able to fully trust in God and take a path less traveled?
SPECIAL OFFER: A Path Less Traveled is currently free for Miller’s Creek Readers’ Group members. Find out more at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/from-my-front-porch/
Purchase A PATH LESS TRAVELED at
A Path Less Traveled – First 5 Chapters
“A story that I couldn’t put down, of grief, loss, love and new beginnings. A story that will make your heart feel good.” -Reviewer
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2 – A Print Copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED
This is a one-day drawing (December 2, 2015) for a print copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED ($13 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.
More Giveaways & Deals
Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:
$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
THE WAY OF GRACE is on sale for 99-cents for Amazon Kindle (December 1-7, 2015)
eBook giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (ends December 3, 2015)
The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2 -Your Second Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2-Your Second Prize to Win
Hover your cursor over this photo to share on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thank you! :)Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 2!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2
The second prize up for grabs in the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2 is a print copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED, the second Miller’s Creek novel (rated at 4.5 stars) and Amazon best-seller.
NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!
Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $13):
A PATH LESS TRAVELED
A grief-stricken single mom, her traumatized little boy, and the new lawyer in town who loves them both…
Trish James is tired of being rescued. When a spooked horse claims her husband’s life, she’s determined to blaze a path for herself and her traumatized son without outside help. Unfortunately, her attempts to run her own business as an artist and wedding planner just doesn’t pay the bills. But will that mean leaving her hometown of Miller’s Creek–the place etched on her heart?
Andy Tyler has had to struggle for everything, and starting a new law practice in Miller’s Creek, Texas is no different. Though prepared for business challenges, he’s not prepared for falling in love–especially with yet another woman who will probably abandon him for her career.
Will Andy and Trish be able to fully trust in God and take a path less traveled?
SPECIAL OFFER: A Path Less Traveled is currently free for Miller’s Creek Readers’ Group members. Find out more at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/from-my-front-porch/
Purchase A PATH LESS TRAVELED at
A Path Less Traveled – First 5 Chapters
“A story that I couldn’t put down, of grief, loss, love and new beginnings. A story that will make your heart feel good.” -Reviewer
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2 – A Print Copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED
This is a one-day drawing (December 2, 2015) for a print copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED ($13 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.
More Giveaways & Deals
Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:
$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
THE WAY OF GRACE is on sale for 99-cents for Amazon Kindle (December 1-7, 2015)
eBook giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (ends December 3, 2015)
The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2-Your Second Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
November 30, 2015
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 1-Your First Prize to Win
Hover your cursor over the photo to share on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thank you! :)Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 1!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/
Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
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12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 1
The first prize up for grabs is a print copy of TEXAS ROADS, the first Miller’s Creek novel (rated at 4.6 stars), and Amazon best-seller, and a 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers’ Genesis contest finalist.
NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!
Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $13):
TEXAS ROADS
One secret kept, another uncovered…
Dani Davis just wants to find a place to call home. Miller’s Creek, Texas, with its country charm and quirky citizens seems like the perfect place to start over. Perfect, that is, except for the cowboy who gives her a ride into town… Dani secretly finances renovations to downtown Miller’s Creek, but malicious rumors force her to choose between keeping her involvement a secret and the home for which she’s always longed. Then the discovery of an age-old secret propels her down a road she never expected to travel. Steve Miller is determined to save his dying hometown. When vandalism jeopardizes the Miller’s Creek restoration project, he can’t help but suspect Dani, whose strange behavior has become fodder for local gossips. Will Steve and Dani be able to call a truce for a higher cause and in the process help Dani understand the true meaning of home?
SPECIAL OFFER: Texas Roads is currently free for Kindle and Nook!
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 1 – A Print Copy of TEXAS ROADS
This is a one-day drawing (December 1, 2015) for a print copy of TEXAS ROADS ($13 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.
More Giveaways & Deals
Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:
$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
THE WAY OF GRACE is on sale for 99-cents for Amazon Kindle (December 1-7, 2015)
The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 1-Your First Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.
CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog
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