What do you think?
Rate this book
May the Road Rise to Meet You: A 31-Day Devotional Inspired by Irish Blessings
Whether or not one has any personal connection to Ireland via ancestry or travel, it is hard to deny the pull that magical island has on our hearts. The Irish seem to possess a peculiar ability to put just the right words to any situation, as evidenced by the long and cherished tradition of Irish blessings. And perhaps no one is better equipped to draw out the spiritual truths and personal application of those blessings than award-winning novelist Jennifer Deibel.
With her years living and exploring Ireland always on her heart, and after authoring several works of fiction set on the Emerald Isle, Jennifer invites you on a 31-day journey to deepen your faith. Both well-known and more obscure, these inspiring reflections on Irish blessings will strengthen your heart and draw you closer to God's grace. Each day includes a blessing, Scripture verses, a devotional reflection that connects to the theme of the blessing, and suggestions for practical application and prayer.
Brimming with warmth and wisdom, this unique devotional makes the perfect gift for anyone with Irish roots, a love of Irish culture, or a desire for a more robust faith and a lighter spirit.
With her years living and exploring Ireland always on her heart, and after authoring several works of fiction set on the Emerald Isle, Jennifer invites you on a 31-day journey to deepen your faith. Both well-known and more obscure, these inspiring reflections on Irish blessings will strengthen your heart and draw you closer to God's grace. Each day includes a blessing, Scripture verses, a devotional reflection that connects to the theme of the blessing, and suggestions for practical application and prayer.
Brimming with warmth and wisdom, this unique devotional makes the perfect gift for anyone with Irish roots, a love of Irish culture, or a desire for a more robust faith and a lighter spirit.
160 pages, Hardcover
Published March 3, 2026
9 people are currently reading
2544 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Deibel
6 books687 followersJennifer Deibel is a middle school teacher and freelance writer. Her work has appeared on (in)courage, on The Better Mom, in Missions Mosaic Magazine, and others. With firsthand immersive experience abroad, Jennifer writes stories that help redefine home through the lens of culture, history, and family. After nearly a decade of living in Ireland and Austria, she now lives in Arizona.
Debut novel, A Dance in Donegal, releases February 2, 2021 from Revell. Follow Moira Doherty to the wilds of rural Ireland in 1921. Available for preorder wherever books are sold.
Debut novel, A Dance in Donegal, releases February 2, 2021 from Revell. Follow Moira Doherty to the wilds of rural Ireland in 1921. Available for preorder wherever books are sold.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 4, 2026
“May you have the hindsight to know where you’ve been,
the foresight to know where you are going,
and the insight to know when you have gone too far.”
Traditional Irish Blessing
I have really enjoyed Jennifer Deibel’s writing voice in her historical romances set in Ireland, and I’m always drawn to Irish blessings when I see them. So having a devotional book that combined these two faves sounded right up my alley, and I’m delighted to report that the reality was even sweeter. May the Road Rise to Meet You is a lovely collection of 31 devotions (perfect for the month of March, by the way) that each begin with a different Irish blessing and include suggested Scripture passages to study, personal reflections from Deibel’s time living in Ireland (and moving back to the States), seamless connections to spiritual application, and an ‘apply it’ section that brings it back to our own lives. I loved seeing Ireland through Deibel’s eyes and I developed a new appreciation for this country and its people thanks to these devotions. But even more importantly, my heart was touched by several of the daily readings that offered truth and grace for things I’m walking through and where I’m at in my walk with God.
May the Road Rise to Meet You is perfect both for those who want a lot of depth to dig into and those who need something lighter for now. If you study the Scriptures included for each day and approach the readings and the personal application section with a prayerful heart – and meditate on them as you go about your daily activities – you will find yourself with many nuggets of wisdom to chew on and will undoubtedly grow closer to Jesus in the process. But if you’re in a season where you can’t do more than read the blessings and Deibel’s thoughts and maybe like one Bible verse each day, please know that a) we’ve all been there and b) you will still find truth, grace, and a warm hug on these pages. My favorite devotional was probably the one where she ties the blessing, “If God sends you down a stony path/May He give you strong shoes,” to how life sometimes hurts like we’re walking barefoot on LEGOs. My favorite personal story was Deibel’s memory of how God orchestrated divine appointments during the dedication of their infant son to Jesus. And my favorite blessing was the one I quoted at the beginning of this review.
Bottom Line: Reading through May the Road Rise to Meet You felt as though I was sitting at a quaint table in a charming Irish pub, listening to Jennifer Deibel share from her heart over a cuppa (for her. I still want a Diet Coke please), our Bibles open in front of us. The author blends her experiences in Ireland with Scripture and spiritual reflection in a way that’s engaging and meaningful to those who truly engage the opportunities for depth as well as those who just let its truth gently wrap around their heart for now. I loved the ways Deibel invites us to see God’s fingerprints in Irish culture as well as the ordinary rhythms of our own lives, and honestly, Deibel’s perspective on this beautiful country has me wanting to move there! This is a book I’ll come back to often as seasons shift in my life, and for sure it will become a tradition for my quiet time every March (though it’s wonderful any time of the year). “…and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
the foresight to know where you are going,
and the insight to know when you have gone too far.”
Traditional Irish Blessing
I have really enjoyed Jennifer Deibel’s writing voice in her historical romances set in Ireland, and I’m always drawn to Irish blessings when I see them. So having a devotional book that combined these two faves sounded right up my alley, and I’m delighted to report that the reality was even sweeter. May the Road Rise to Meet You is a lovely collection of 31 devotions (perfect for the month of March, by the way) that each begin with a different Irish blessing and include suggested Scripture passages to study, personal reflections from Deibel’s time living in Ireland (and moving back to the States), seamless connections to spiritual application, and an ‘apply it’ section that brings it back to our own lives. I loved seeing Ireland through Deibel’s eyes and I developed a new appreciation for this country and its people thanks to these devotions. But even more importantly, my heart was touched by several of the daily readings that offered truth and grace for things I’m walking through and where I’m at in my walk with God.
May the Road Rise to Meet You is perfect both for those who want a lot of depth to dig into and those who need something lighter for now. If you study the Scriptures included for each day and approach the readings and the personal application section with a prayerful heart – and meditate on them as you go about your daily activities – you will find yourself with many nuggets of wisdom to chew on and will undoubtedly grow closer to Jesus in the process. But if you’re in a season where you can’t do more than read the blessings and Deibel’s thoughts and maybe like one Bible verse each day, please know that a) we’ve all been there and b) you will still find truth, grace, and a warm hug on these pages. My favorite devotional was probably the one where she ties the blessing, “If God sends you down a stony path/May He give you strong shoes,” to how life sometimes hurts like we’re walking barefoot on LEGOs. My favorite personal story was Deibel’s memory of how God orchestrated divine appointments during the dedication of their infant son to Jesus. And my favorite blessing was the one I quoted at the beginning of this review.
Bottom Line: Reading through May the Road Rise to Meet You felt as though I was sitting at a quaint table in a charming Irish pub, listening to Jennifer Deibel share from her heart over a cuppa (for her. I still want a Diet Coke please), our Bibles open in front of us. The author blends her experiences in Ireland with Scripture and spiritual reflection in a way that’s engaging and meaningful to those who truly engage the opportunities for depth as well as those who just let its truth gently wrap around their heart for now. I loved the ways Deibel invites us to see God’s fingerprints in Irish culture as well as the ordinary rhythms of our own lives, and honestly, Deibel’s perspective on this beautiful country has me wanting to move there! This is a book I’ll come back to often as seasons shift in my life, and for sure it will become a tradition for my quiet time every March (though it’s wonderful any time of the year). “…and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
March 21, 2026
Peace can feel fragile when life becomes chaotic.
When fear presses in and uncertainty refuses to lift, peace can begin to feel more like a distant hope than a present reality. Yet the pages of this devotional gently remind the reader that true peace is not dependent on circumstances.
It begins much deeper.
One passage expresses this truth beautifully: “This peace reaches beyond the direst of circumstances and settles deep in the core of our souls. It remains when life is chaotic and we feel like a leaf blown on a gale. It enriches our joy as we celebrate milestones and victories. And it guides us when the fog of uncertainty settles over our hearts. If you are not sure how to put your faith in Him, consider the bonus Scripture for today. In it, John very clearly lays out that we need to admit to God that we’ve missed the mark. When we do, Jesus will cleanse us, forgive us, and make us right in the eyes of our Father (1 John 1:9).”
There is something deeply comforting about the clarity of that message. Real peace does not come from controlling the storms of life. It begins when we humbly come before God, acknowledge our need for forgiveness, and receive the cleansing Christ freely offers.
Throughout the devotional, Scripture anchors each reflection, pointing hearts toward repentance, restoration, and the steady peace that flows from a life surrendered to God.
Like the ancient Irish blessings that inspired this devotional, the reflections gently remind us that God’s peace accompanies us along every road we travel.
With quiet power, the pages guide the heart back to the simple yet profound truth of the gospel: when we confess our sins, Christ faithfully forgives and restores.
This is the kind of devotional I know I will return to again and again. The reflections are gentle, the Scripture is clear, and the message of God’s peace settles deeply within the heart.
It is also a book I will gladly share with others (friends, family, and neighbors) because the reminder it offers is one every believer needs. Peace with God begins when we come to Him honestly, receive His forgiveness, and rest in the grace He has already provided through Christ.
I received the eARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability. I will re-read this fantastic devotional again and again and again!
When fear presses in and uncertainty refuses to lift, peace can begin to feel more like a distant hope than a present reality. Yet the pages of this devotional gently remind the reader that true peace is not dependent on circumstances.
It begins much deeper.
One passage expresses this truth beautifully: “This peace reaches beyond the direst of circumstances and settles deep in the core of our souls. It remains when life is chaotic and we feel like a leaf blown on a gale. It enriches our joy as we celebrate milestones and victories. And it guides us when the fog of uncertainty settles over our hearts. If you are not sure how to put your faith in Him, consider the bonus Scripture for today. In it, John very clearly lays out that we need to admit to God that we’ve missed the mark. When we do, Jesus will cleanse us, forgive us, and make us right in the eyes of our Father (1 John 1:9).”
There is something deeply comforting about the clarity of that message. Real peace does not come from controlling the storms of life. It begins when we humbly come before God, acknowledge our need for forgiveness, and receive the cleansing Christ freely offers.
Throughout the devotional, Scripture anchors each reflection, pointing hearts toward repentance, restoration, and the steady peace that flows from a life surrendered to God.
Like the ancient Irish blessings that inspired this devotional, the reflections gently remind us that God’s peace accompanies us along every road we travel.
With quiet power, the pages guide the heart back to the simple yet profound truth of the gospel: when we confess our sins, Christ faithfully forgives and restores.
This is the kind of devotional I know I will return to again and again. The reflections are gentle, the Scripture is clear, and the message of God’s peace settles deeply within the heart.
It is also a book I will gladly share with others (friends, family, and neighbors) because the reminder it offers is one every believer needs. Peace with God begins when we come to Him honestly, receive His forgiveness, and rest in the grace He has already provided through Christ.
I received the eARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability. I will re-read this fantastic devotional again and again and again!
March 7, 2026
Being a devotional writer myself, I loved seeing how another author penned their work. I have read author Jennifer Deibel’s fiction works before, but this was my first time reading something from her in the non-fiction sector. And I was impressed with her words and insights. She provides readers with a beautiful book of daily devotions that are based on Irish blessings. Many of them were new to me, so I loved learning more about Irish culture and beliefs, alongside the spiritual insights and faith tidbits that graced each page. She demonstrates great discernment from God in presenting the Word alongside each Irish blessing and her words helped me enter His presence each morning that I read. Each day’s devotions included an Irish blessing, daily Scripture passages to read, followed by an in depth devotion designed to uplift and inspire you. I love the inclusion of a page for application. She prompts readers to consider what they had learned in the day’s readings and guides them in how to apply it in their own lives. There are lines where you can record your own response (if you don’t mind writing in your books, which I hate to do since I can’t re-read it later or share it with others without my personal thoughts and feelings written down). I was able to complete each day’s readings in less than ten minutes, including spending time in prayer. This has truly been a delight to go through (and I am not finished yet! I am only part way through) and I am learning so much spiritually as well as culturally. You can see her personal experiences with living in Ireland brought to light in this book. It would make the perfect gift for anyone interested in Irish culture or Irish blessings, or simply for someone looking for a relatively short, easy to read, yet insightful devotional.
March 5, 2026
This is a thoughtful devotional book that includes pages in gentle green tones.
Each daily devotional has a traditional Irish blessing, a few easy-to-read scripture references (Bible needed), and the author's thoughts and words of encouragement. Following that is the Appy It journal page, where you can meditate on what the author suggests and make notes as to what you feel God is directing you towards next.
This book was just released this week and would make a thoughtful gift for St. Patrick's Day, an Irish friend or family member, or simply someone seeking a sweet devotional book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received an eVersion of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.
It is currently on sale on the publisher's website if you are able to catch it! 🍀
Jennifer Deibel loves hearing from her readers and is very approachable and sweet.
https://jenniferdeibel.com/
Book Link: https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/9...
Publication Date: 3rd March 2026
Format: Hardcover
Imprint: Fleming H. Revell Company
SKU: 9780800745998
Pages: 160
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Trim Size: 5.1 (w) x 7.1 (h) x 0.6 (d) in
Each daily devotional has a traditional Irish blessing, a few easy-to-read scripture references (Bible needed), and the author's thoughts and words of encouragement. Following that is the Appy It journal page, where you can meditate on what the author suggests and make notes as to what you feel God is directing you towards next.
This book was just released this week and would make a thoughtful gift for St. Patrick's Day, an Irish friend or family member, or simply someone seeking a sweet devotional book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received an eVersion of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.
It is currently on sale on the publisher's website if you are able to catch it! 🍀
Jennifer Deibel loves hearing from her readers and is very approachable and sweet.
https://jenniferdeibel.com/
Book Link: https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/9...
Publication Date: 3rd March 2026
Format: Hardcover
Imprint: Fleming H. Revell Company
SKU: 9780800745998
Pages: 160
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Trim Size: 5.1 (w) x 7.1 (h) x 0.6 (d) in
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
May the Road Rise to Meet You: A 31-Day Devotional Inspired by Irish Blessings is a gentle, soul-soothing devotional that blends timeless Irish wisdom with meaningful daily reflection. Each entry draws on the poetic beauty of traditional blessings, offering Scripture, thoughtful insight, and practical encouragement that feels both grounding and uplifting. The writing is warm and approachable, making it easy to incorporate into a morning quiet time or evening wind-down ritual.
What makes this devotional stand out is its tone—hopeful without being overly sentimental, reflective without feeling heavy. It invites readers to slow down, embrace gratitude, and trust in God’s steady presence through life’s changing seasons. Whether you have Irish roots or simply appreciate lyrical, faith-filled inspiration, this 31-day journey offers a refreshing reset for the heart.
What makes this devotional stand out is its tone—hopeful without being overly sentimental, reflective without feeling heavy. It invites readers to slow down, embrace gratitude, and trust in God’s steady presence through life’s changing seasons. Whether you have Irish roots or simply appreciate lyrical, faith-filled inspiration, this 31-day journey offers a refreshing reset for the heart.
April 26, 2026
May The Road Rise to Meet You by Jennifer Deibel is an interesting devotional book for Christians. It has questions towards the end of its chapters that really hit the nail on the head. It made me want to ask,"how did you know I feeling that way?" or "Whoa, are you reading my mind right now?" It begins with a quote. Then, it shows the readings for each section that you need to look up and read (from your own Bible) in order to understand the text that comes after that. The book really makes you take time to read, reflect, and think when it comes to God, your faith, and how you are making that journey towards God in your life. I really liked this book. I am a Christian and I think any Christian or person wanting to become a Christian can use this book to help them develop their faith and path towards God.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
April 15, 2026
Jennifer Deibel left the United States to live in Ireland, fully making it their home. Eventually, they returned to the US, sad at the deep roots and lovely people they left behind. Deibel has selected 31 traditional blessings which seem to be the right words for many of life's situations. As I read each devotion, I felt the call of the beautiful Emerald Isle, but more so, the call of God's great love for each of us. As Deibel's Irish neighbors became family, so we are called to welcome others into God's fold. Some blessings gather us in with humor, some with an awakening, but always with love.
This devotional covers one month, but it would make a gift (get well, birthday, Mother's Day) that would be read over and over.
This devotional covers one month, but it would make a gift (get well, birthday, Mother's Day) that would be read over and over.
April 30, 2026
This is a lovely devotional! Perfect for those who want something to center their thoughts on God, but don't have a big chunk of time to devote to devotions first thing in the morning. I really love the whole book, from the layout, to the Irish blessings tied to the Biblical readings. I especially like how even though each days devotional thought is short, it's still deep and thought provoking.
This would be make a great gift for anyone. The size is perfect, the cover and inside layout is beautiful, and each devotional helps you to really consider the Bible verses it has you read. And at the end of each devotional they left some room for you to write notes or thoughts down. It's the perfect devotional for spring/summer time.
This would be make a great gift for anyone. The size is perfect, the cover and inside layout is beautiful, and each devotional helps you to really consider the Bible verses it has you read. And at the end of each devotional they left some room for you to write notes or thoughts down. It's the perfect devotional for spring/summer time.
March 15, 2026
A beautiful devotional book that will bring a smile to your face daily. It's the perfect way to begin or end a busy day by refreshing your spirit. This wonderfully written collection is scripture verses and how they connects to Irish blessings. Each devotion is interesting and unique and .just the right size for a dose of encouragement, comfort, inspiration and blessing. This lovely book is well laid out and is a joy to read. It will fill your heart and mind with peace and hope. I love it!
March 25, 2026
I enjoyed this sweet Christian devotional. The elements from the authors real life experiences really helped the points she was making regarding the irish blessings feel authentic and heart felt. Many a day I doubled up the lessons to make sure I got through it in time to review during the release month, and did so with no difficulty as the lessons are short. Don't let the irish blessings part sway you from reading for fear it will be catholic religious views, it's very much Christian.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a free copy of, May the Road Rise to Meet You, by Jennifer Deibel, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is a 31 day Irish devotional. The book has a traditional Irish blessing, a reading for the day, and how to apply it in your own life. This was an enjoyable devotional.
April 22, 2026
4.5⭐️ I enjoyed this devotional! Each day has a traditional Irish blessing, recommended Scriptures you should read that fit the blessing’s theme, a few paragraphs of related thoughts and anecdotes from the author, and a prompt for applying the blessing’s lesson to yourself.
April 1, 2026
Sweet little devotional of Irish blessings, scriptures to go with each one, and little devotionals written by Jennifer who lived in Ireland for a time.
April 6, 2026
Really enjoyed it. Review to come!
April 17, 2026
Tender and moving, I highly recommend this easy to read devotional.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews