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Secrets of the Vine for Women: Breaking Through to Abundance
The Abundant Life Awaits You...
Talking with His disciples the night before He died, Jesus used a vineyard analogy to reveal His plan to bring every one of His followers to a place of genuine spiritual abundance. But if we don't understand how God works in our lives to bring that wonderful harvest about, we can actually work against His good hand in our lives without ever knowing it.
In this little book based on John 15, Darlene Marie Wilkinson, author of the New York Times bestseller The Prayer of Jabez for Women , invites you to listen carefully to what Jesus said. You'll learn how to cooperate with your Father for your greatest fulfillment and for His awesome glory.
And you'll discover how Jesus responds to our cry as women for transformation, a rich spiritual harvest...and deeper intimacy with Him.
Talking with His disciples the night before He died, Jesus used a vineyard analogy to reveal His plan to bring every one of His followers to a place of genuine spiritual abundance. But if we don't understand how God works in our lives to bring that wonderful harvest about, we can actually work against His good hand in our lives without ever knowing it.
In this little book based on John 15, Darlene Marie Wilkinson, author of the New York Times bestseller The Prayer of Jabez for Women , invites you to listen carefully to what Jesus said. You'll learn how to cooperate with your Father for your greatest fulfillment and for His awesome glory.
And you'll discover how Jesus responds to our cry as women for transformation, a rich spiritual harvest...and deeper intimacy with Him.
128 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
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63 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 23, 2011
Talking with His disciples the night before He died, Jesus used a vineyard analogy to reveal His plan to bring every one of His followers to a place of genuine spiritual abundance. But if we don't understand how God works in our lives to bring that wonderful harvest about, we can actually work against His good hand in our lives without ever knowing it.
"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser… I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit…" (John 15: 1, 5) (from back cover)
Secrets of the Vine is the bestseller written by Bruce Wilkinson. This version, written by his wife, is aimed at a female audience. I had not read the former and presumed this would be a short little gift-type book that I would flip through in an hour. How wrong I was. I thought this would be a book I'd read, review and then pass onto my church's library. Again, I was wrong. There were so many points that stood out and demanded my attention that the pages are now covered in yellow highlighter.
Mrs. Wilkinson has taken a chapter I've read and heard several times, and brings it alive. I live near Lake Erie wine country, and have seen plenty of vineyards. I've seen the vines but never thought of them representing Jesus, and I've never thought of myself as one of the many branches. But reading this book makes so much sense. God is the vinedresser who wants so much from us, but we have to be willing. If there is sin in our lives, we need to turn from it in order to begin producing fruit. If the fruit is good but not great, God may 'prune' parts of our lives. It might be hard, but it will be worth it.
I'm also working through a Bible study based on Priscilla Shirer's take on Jonah. Why do I mention that? Because this week's study has gone over a very similar subject. First, we need to repent and turn from where we are, and then we need to follow what God wants from us in order to produce much fruit. This people, is no coincidence. This is God speaking, and I know I've been convicted. I also know that this is a book I will be keeping and using as a reference tool in my life.
A Readers' Guide is included.
Publisher: Multnomah
Pages: 127
I received my free copy of Secrets of the Vine for Women from Waterbrook Multnomah for this review.
"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser… I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit…" (John 15: 1, 5) (from back cover)
Secrets of the Vine is the bestseller written by Bruce Wilkinson. This version, written by his wife, is aimed at a female audience. I had not read the former and presumed this would be a short little gift-type book that I would flip through in an hour. How wrong I was. I thought this would be a book I'd read, review and then pass onto my church's library. Again, I was wrong. There were so many points that stood out and demanded my attention that the pages are now covered in yellow highlighter.
Mrs. Wilkinson has taken a chapter I've read and heard several times, and brings it alive. I live near Lake Erie wine country, and have seen plenty of vineyards. I've seen the vines but never thought of them representing Jesus, and I've never thought of myself as one of the many branches. But reading this book makes so much sense. God is the vinedresser who wants so much from us, but we have to be willing. If there is sin in our lives, we need to turn from it in order to begin producing fruit. If the fruit is good but not great, God may 'prune' parts of our lives. It might be hard, but it will be worth it.
I'm also working through a Bible study based on Priscilla Shirer's take on Jonah. Why do I mention that? Because this week's study has gone over a very similar subject. First, we need to repent and turn from where we are, and then we need to follow what God wants from us in order to produce much fruit. This people, is no coincidence. This is God speaking, and I know I've been convicted. I also know that this is a book I will be keeping and using as a reference tool in my life.
A Readers' Guide is included.
Publisher: Multnomah
Pages: 127
I received my free copy of Secrets of the Vine for Women from Waterbrook Multnomah for this review.
June 18, 2011
I couldn't not get into this book simple because,basically I was trying to understand where it was going.It talks about a vinyard, the growth of it,but it its being compared to the teachings of the bible.When it was talking about the vineyard it was as though she was (the author) refering to her past as a child. Then it goes on to quote some scriptures frome the bible.Then she poses question in the book as though(the author) is tryng to connect with the reader.After that it explain a couple of situations were it refering to the bible,and the vineyard.When I think I'm settle into her (the Author) explaining ,and possible helping someone out,it goes back to the story of her being in a vineyard,and how her father carefully takes care of the vines,and the fruit from it.
I just couldn't connect,or you might say follow the path that the author was trying to potray in her book,and to be quite honest I didn't get the conection of the vineyard,and how the bible were one in the same.It was like her explaining the bible through a story from her past of being on a vineyard then it goes on with helping some one with the explantion of the bible.Then in a couple of paragraphs she would say in the next few chapters you(the reader) will understand or follow what I'm talking about,as though reading it wouldn't just explian what she was already talking about.
So in other words I just had to put the book aside.It was to much of trying to follow what the book was all about.
I just couldn't connect,or you might say follow the path that the author was trying to potray in her book,and to be quite honest I didn't get the conection of the vineyard,and how the bible were one in the same.It was like her explaining the bible through a story from her past of being on a vineyard then it goes on with helping some one with the explantion of the bible.Then in a couple of paragraphs she would say in the next few chapters you(the reader) will understand or follow what I'm talking about,as though reading it wouldn't just explian what she was already talking about.
So in other words I just had to put the book aside.It was to much of trying to follow what the book was all about.
June 28, 2011
ut, what does “abundant” mean? How do you get an abundant life? Is it even possible to know an abundant life when it seems like you’re always facing another series of disasters?
Darlene weaves John 15 with the story of a vineyard. As the father and daughter walk among their vines, you learn about pruning, watering, and grafting; all important pieces of a bountiful harvest. Each chapter tells a part of the story and provides more scriptural references to the concepts addressed. The goal is to introduce you to God as a loving Father instead of the unreachable puppet taskmaster. The key point for me, was understanding the difference between punishment and pruning and the sources or reasons for either to occur.
As a busy mom, this book was perfect for my schedule. The book itself is divided into 6 short chapters, followed by a study guide. I chose to read a chapter per day and journal the questions from the study guide. This took on average 20 minutes a day.
Although I enjoyed my times of bible study, the book was not a life-changing experience. It was a good review of concepts that I had already studied before. If you have never experienced the power of John 15, this would be a good book for you.
Disclaimer: I was given this complimentary book from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers through Blogging for Books for my honest review.
Darlene weaves John 15 with the story of a vineyard. As the father and daughter walk among their vines, you learn about pruning, watering, and grafting; all important pieces of a bountiful harvest. Each chapter tells a part of the story and provides more scriptural references to the concepts addressed. The goal is to introduce you to God as a loving Father instead of the unreachable puppet taskmaster. The key point for me, was understanding the difference between punishment and pruning and the sources or reasons for either to occur.
As a busy mom, this book was perfect for my schedule. The book itself is divided into 6 short chapters, followed by a study guide. I chose to read a chapter per day and journal the questions from the study guide. This took on average 20 minutes a day.
Although I enjoyed my times of bible study, the book was not a life-changing experience. It was a good review of concepts that I had already studied before. If you have never experienced the power of John 15, this would be a good book for you.
Disclaimer: I was given this complimentary book from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers through Blogging for Books for my honest review.
May 27, 2011
To follow the three seasons of God's vineyard will bring you a life filled with purpose and love.
This small devotional shows the parallels of raising a productive harvest of grapes to the ways in which we as women should live our lives to have a deeper connection with Christ. It gives wonderful examples of what discipline, pruning, and gaining abundance is all about in our daily lives.
The part that really hit home for me was the Mary and Martha story. I do believe that we get caught up too much in the busyness of our taking care of things instead of spending the time enjoying the presence of the people around us and the Lord.
I think thie little book would be very beneficial to any woman who is searching for a closer relationship with God. It is very well written in terms that make it easy to follow and understand. The bible study guide which is included makes it even more useful and makes you think more on how to best use the information.
I would recommend this book to any woman looking for a nice and short devotional read.
This book was provided to me by Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for my honest review.
This small devotional shows the parallels of raising a productive harvest of grapes to the ways in which we as women should live our lives to have a deeper connection with Christ. It gives wonderful examples of what discipline, pruning, and gaining abundance is all about in our daily lives.
The part that really hit home for me was the Mary and Martha story. I do believe that we get caught up too much in the busyness of our taking care of things instead of spending the time enjoying the presence of the people around us and the Lord.
I think thie little book would be very beneficial to any woman who is searching for a closer relationship with God. It is very well written in terms that make it easy to follow and understand. The bible study guide which is included makes it even more useful and makes you think more on how to best use the information.
I would recommend this book to any woman looking for a nice and short devotional read.
This book was provided to me by Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for my honest review.
November 7, 2011
If you’ve read Secrets of the Vine by the author’s husband, Bruce Wilkinson and get the concept of living a life of dependency of Jesus, then don’t get his book. But if you’ve read it and still don’t understand how to make time for Jesus in a crowded life of demands made of you as wife, mother, caregiver and breadwinner, then get yourself a copy of this book.
Expounding on it predecessor, this book deals with more of the practical barriers that keep us from letting go and letting Jesus direct our choices, perspectives and attitudes in life. Using everyday examples of women attempting to fill a full and meaningful life for themselves while meeting the demands of life, Wilkinson emphasizes how being connected to Jesus the Vine is not something you squeeze into your schedule as time permits; but is instead what your entire day is anchored upon. Everything you do is layered atop your constant connection to Jesus. It is the fuel that not only propels you along but that also brings focus and meaning to your purpose as a woman.
A small book, a powerful concept, that illuminates an ageless truth–One needs to be connected to the Vine to produce fruit.
Expounding on it predecessor, this book deals with more of the practical barriers that keep us from letting go and letting Jesus direct our choices, perspectives and attitudes in life. Using everyday examples of women attempting to fill a full and meaningful life for themselves while meeting the demands of life, Wilkinson emphasizes how being connected to Jesus the Vine is not something you squeeze into your schedule as time permits; but is instead what your entire day is anchored upon. Everything you do is layered atop your constant connection to Jesus. It is the fuel that not only propels you along but that also brings focus and meaning to your purpose as a woman.
A small book, a powerful concept, that illuminates an ageless truth–One needs to be connected to the Vine to produce fruit.
May 5, 2011
I have read the Secrets of the Vine book, as well as the children's edition. So when I saw this as a book to review I took the opportunity. I am extremely glad I did. This book is just the right size for a quick read. The author's writing style keeps the book from being overwhelming in theology. Everything is very simple to understand and is uplifting and encouraging. I would highly recommend this book to every woman - we could all use a little encouragement from time to time. I did especially enjoy the illustration of Mary and Martha. Too often we are overwhelmed by what must be done that we do not take care of the most important task at hand - just spending time with Jesus. Our to-do lists often take precedence over our quiet time with the Lord to the point that we begin to neglect it by treating this relationship as just another item on the to-do list.
This books size and price make it an excellent gift or basket filler for ladies in your church. A great read for ALL women.
Thank you Waterbrook/Multnamah for this review copy.
This books size and price make it an excellent gift or basket filler for ladies in your church. A great read for ALL women.
Thank you Waterbrook/Multnamah for this review copy.
July 22, 2011
I won this on Goodreads. What a blessing to receive this book. It takes you on a personal and spiritual walk through John 15, through the conversation Jesus had with his apostles about how He is the vine and we are the branches. Starts off with a refreshing story of a daughter and her father, how she leaves the city to return home for the grape harvest. Then it starts into the text, including several bible references to illustrate her point, as well as real testimonies to show how others have been affected by this book. A light read without being overwhelming and leaves you satisfied rather than making you feel like a "bad" christian. It also includes object lessons for those of us who need to understand with more clarity just what she is trying to tell us. All in all, a wonderful book to have and keep on your bookshelf. One that will have you going back to it from time to time to make sure that you are abiding in Christ and giving your all to Him.
May 29, 2011
I have been trying to think how to express my pleasure and gratitude for a wonderful book called "Secrets of the Vine for Women." I did not know what to expect until I started reading and I found that the book is extremely relate-able and accessible. I have a deeper understanding of John 15 and other Bible scriptures mentioned than before. Also, this book will be excellent to use with daily scripture study as the author advises on page 87 in chapter 5. I feel the author Wilkinson teaches us how to better appreciate and use scriptures for a closer relationship with Heavenly Father. I found the study guide extremely helpful,especially when journaling during reading this book or after. I know the title says "for women" but I think my husband would enjoy this book too. I received "Secrets of the Vine for Women" by Darlene Marie Wilkinson through a reader program called Blogging for Books and am not required to write an affirmative review.
May 31, 2011
Starting 5/20/11.
Thanks goodreads and Multnomah Books for getting this book to me! I am excited to get started.
This book was okay. Very short, and even being for that short it took me awhile to get through it. It kept referencing another book, Secrets of the Vine, that I hadn't read, or in honesty hadn't even heard of. I feel the author was too 'touchy-feely', which is odd coming from me the Emotional Woman. I didn't understand the 'fiction' sections of the book and felt they could have been left out. Things could have been expanded upon.
Overall, I am glad I won it, but won't be recommending it to anyone.
Thanks goodreads and Multnomah Books for getting this book to me! I am excited to get started.
This book was okay. Very short, and even being for that short it took me awhile to get through it. It kept referencing another book, Secrets of the Vine, that I hadn't read, or in honesty hadn't even heard of. I feel the author was too 'touchy-feely', which is odd coming from me the Emotional Woman. I didn't understand the 'fiction' sections of the book and felt they could have been left out. Things could have been expanded upon.
Overall, I am glad I won it, but won't be recommending it to anyone.
May 25, 2011
I'm not usually one for reading Christian books but i truly enjoyed this one. I am so glad that I got it in A Goodreads Firstread giveaway. This book simply put guides the reader as to why things happen or don't happen on your journey with God.
The thing I am taking away is that God wants us to be abundantly happy in our lives. But he also wants to remind us to focus on the important stuff of doing his will/work.
Often I read books with Bible quotes in them that are not very relevant. Secrets of the Vine for women chose quotes wisely and also gave excellent commentary. I hope this is the beginning of my journey through Christian literary works.
The thing I am taking away is that God wants us to be abundantly happy in our lives. But he also wants to remind us to focus on the important stuff of doing his will/work.
Often I read books with Bible quotes in them that are not very relevant. Secrets of the Vine for women chose quotes wisely and also gave excellent commentary. I hope this is the beginning of my journey through Christian literary works.
July 2, 2011
This book is based on John 15 from the scripture, and guides you through the "vineyard" speech that Jesus made the night before He died.
I loved the imagery in this book, the use of the girl and her father in his vineyard to help visualize and explain the meaning of the words spoken by Jesus to his disciples.
This book is very easy to read and brief, covers a beautiful and inspirational speech, and offers up what every woman can take from the words that Jesus spoke.
I loved the imagery in this book, the use of the girl and her father in his vineyard to help visualize and explain the meaning of the words spoken by Jesus to his disciples.
This book is very easy to read and brief, covers a beautiful and inspirational speech, and offers up what every woman can take from the words that Jesus spoke.
October 7, 2016
Darlene Marie Wilkinson brings to life a story of a vinedresser and his daughter to portray and teach how God cares for us. Learn more about the fruits that you could be planting and harvesting for our Heavenly Father.
May 26, 2011
I enjoyed the simple beauty of this book. It was an easy read, but very powerful.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews