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Ready to Rise: Own Your Voice, Gather Your Community, Step into Your Influence
A powerful call to step into your full potential that biblically affirms the need for women to rise up and work together to make a better world.
"Jo is one of my most trusted voices in Christian leadership... She leads auditoriums full of people, and she leads me one-on-one." --Jen Hatmaker
In this particular cultural moment, where the momentum of #MeToo meets raised voices over injustice in wage equality and minority representation, popular speaker and podcaster Jo Saxton wants to move women beyond disempowerment. Instead, she draws women together to grow their grit and to establish new partnerships that will have a powerful chain effect.
You Are Made for This tackles the real-life issues women face--workplace harassment, sexism, low self-esteem, financial woes, power battles, and old wounds--while providing meaningful wisdom from Jo's own journey to leadership. Added to this personal reflection are stories of empowered women from the Bible. Jo then calls on readers to invest in the next generation of women and build new communities where diverse female leadership can flourish.
You Are Made for This pulls together Jo's best practices in both listening to the hearts of women and empowering them to change the landscape.
"Jo is one of my most trusted voices in Christian leadership... She leads auditoriums full of people, and she leads me one-on-one." --Jen Hatmaker
In this particular cultural moment, where the momentum of #MeToo meets raised voices over injustice in wage equality and minority representation, popular speaker and podcaster Jo Saxton wants to move women beyond disempowerment. Instead, she draws women together to grow their grit and to establish new partnerships that will have a powerful chain effect.
You Are Made for This tackles the real-life issues women face--workplace harassment, sexism, low self-esteem, financial woes, power battles, and old wounds--while providing meaningful wisdom from Jo's own journey to leadership. Added to this personal reflection are stories of empowered women from the Bible. Jo then calls on readers to invest in the next generation of women and build new communities where diverse female leadership can flourish.
You Are Made for This pulls together Jo's best practices in both listening to the hearts of women and empowering them to change the landscape.
224 pages, Paperback
Published April 14, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
April 10, 2020
I had the honor to read an advance reader digital copy. What a fantastic motivating realistic deep soulful read. Amazing amazing nuggets to brew deep and lead the way and pursue gods gifts he gave us and root up fly and take wing. Amazing book. I really enjoyed the style of writing. Thank you for the privilege. Highly suggest pre order. Absolutely do it!
February 16, 2020
This book tackles women's empowerment. The author relates our issues to the women in the Bible. I can relate to some of the book. I feel the author kept repeating things throughout the book but just paraphrasing. The book touches on sexism, low self-esteem, financial issues, and workplace harassment. I recommend this book to all women. I give this book 5 stars.
April 12, 2020
I read another book by this author last fall (The Dream of You) and fell in love with her ability to tell a story and encourage the reader to take action. Therefore, when I discovered she had a new book coming out, I jumped at the chance to read it.
Ready to Rise is a book for women. It's meant specifically to encourage, instruct, and inspire leaders. I am not in a leadership role in any capacity currently, so there is much that I didn't feel was meant for me. However, as I read, I found myself connecting with a lot the author said, such as, "Disempowerment is not every woman's experience, nor is leadership and influence every woman's desire. Yet when any human being, male or female, is denied the opportunity to realize his or her God-given potential and make the contribution to society he or she was designed to make, we all miss out on the impact that person could make on the world." I realized there are times when I have something to say and I hold back, for reasons she mentions in this book.
The author has some great re-tellings of Biblical women and how they contributed to their worlds. I especially loved the way she expanded on the verses tucked into Numbers 21:1-7 about Zeplophehad's daughters. In previous readings of the book of Numbers, I have never thought about them before; they were just names in a list. Now I will consider their story and how important community was to them.
Each chapter has a title, a fun subtitle, and an inspirational quote related to the topic. The chapters include such titles as "The Surprising Answer to 'What Would Jesus Do?' (And Why Pedicures Are Not Required)" and "Say Yes to Who You Are (And Why We Don't Leave Good Gifts Unwrapped)." I was especially encouraged by the gifts chapter in which she writes, "God is the gift giver. God is our gift giver. And all too often we are like hesitant, nervous children, questioning the gifts under the tree. We leave them lying idle, gathering dust."
Throughout the book, the author refers back to a group of women in leadership with whom she met to discuss challenges and inspiration, to bring some of the lessons in the book to life. I was encouraged to read about these ladies and found it helpful to understanding what the author wanted me to learn.
Ready to Rise is a book that you can read quickly, but it's designed to be picked apart, truths reflected upon and question prompts responded to. There is a call to action, a sense of urgency: Reader, don't miss what God has planned for you. I know I don't want to miss it either.
NOTE: I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions and words are mine.
Ready to Rise is a book for women. It's meant specifically to encourage, instruct, and inspire leaders. I am not in a leadership role in any capacity currently, so there is much that I didn't feel was meant for me. However, as I read, I found myself connecting with a lot the author said, such as, "Disempowerment is not every woman's experience, nor is leadership and influence every woman's desire. Yet when any human being, male or female, is denied the opportunity to realize his or her God-given potential and make the contribution to society he or she was designed to make, we all miss out on the impact that person could make on the world." I realized there are times when I have something to say and I hold back, for reasons she mentions in this book.
The author has some great re-tellings of Biblical women and how they contributed to their worlds. I especially loved the way she expanded on the verses tucked into Numbers 21:1-7 about Zeplophehad's daughters. In previous readings of the book of Numbers, I have never thought about them before; they were just names in a list. Now I will consider their story and how important community was to them.
Each chapter has a title, a fun subtitle, and an inspirational quote related to the topic. The chapters include such titles as "The Surprising Answer to 'What Would Jesus Do?' (And Why Pedicures Are Not Required)" and "Say Yes to Who You Are (And Why We Don't Leave Good Gifts Unwrapped)." I was especially encouraged by the gifts chapter in which she writes, "God is the gift giver. God is our gift giver. And all too often we are like hesitant, nervous children, questioning the gifts under the tree. We leave them lying idle, gathering dust."
Throughout the book, the author refers back to a group of women in leadership with whom she met to discuss challenges and inspiration, to bring some of the lessons in the book to life. I was encouraged to read about these ladies and found it helpful to understanding what the author wanted me to learn.
Ready to Rise is a book that you can read quickly, but it's designed to be picked apart, truths reflected upon and question prompts responded to. There is a call to action, a sense of urgency: Reader, don't miss what God has planned for you. I know I don't want to miss it either.
NOTE: I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions and words are mine.
April 15, 2020
After a few chapters I could already tell this book was going to be life-giving in a time that self-reflection is at its peak. I caught myself wondering how Jo could have known that a book like this would be needed in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, and then I realized: she didn’t know, but Jesus did. Where do we as Christian women go from here? Jo addresses inequality in a wholly un-obnoxious way and encourages the reader to take up the mantle Jesus has left for us. As a white American woman, it was so refreshing to read from the point of view of someone with a different heritage than my own, but the same core beliefs. We even live in the same place now! I think we all need to be open to hearing stories of those different from us. Once I picked this book up, it was impossible to put down. Jo uses her words to weave the picture of a God who loves his creation, always has our back, and sees us as valuable. It was a reminder that we as women have just as much right and potential to use our gifts and RISE UP as the old white men behind the pulpit and sitting in the senate. For those of you who enjoy a Biblical back-up, she flawlessly ties stories from the Old and New Testament into her raw and real message. Women have been leaving legacies for generations, and it’s up to us to continue adding to history, together. A must-read for sure. Talitha koum!
April 11, 2020
What a privilege and an inspiration to read an advance review copy of Ready to Rise. Like Jo’s other two books, this one is raw, honest, encouraging and empowering and would have had me in tears (of delight and anguish) had I slowed down long enough to let myself (I’ll save that for my second read when the paperback arrives!).
Deeply grounded in biblical truth and practical wisdom, Ready to Rise is not only an imperative to ‘find our voice’ and use it for the kingdom of God, it also provides tools to empower women in particular to step into their calling (although I hope it’s readership will not be limited by gender or any stereotypical views of leadership).
It is an accessible, readable book, and it often feels like listening to a mentor-friend over a cup of something comforting. As always, the reflection questions at the end of each chapter are where the real work begins and I look forward to taking the time to process these more deeply over the coming weeks.
I highly recommend this to anyone who is needing courage to press into all that God is calling them to be, or those who are curious enough to wonder what on earth God could have to say about who we are as leaders, as women, as image bearers of the Creator. Enjoy!
Deeply grounded in biblical truth and practical wisdom, Ready to Rise is not only an imperative to ‘find our voice’ and use it for the kingdom of God, it also provides tools to empower women in particular to step into their calling (although I hope it’s readership will not be limited by gender or any stereotypical views of leadership).
It is an accessible, readable book, and it often feels like listening to a mentor-friend over a cup of something comforting. As always, the reflection questions at the end of each chapter are where the real work begins and I look forward to taking the time to process these more deeply over the coming weeks.
I highly recommend this to anyone who is needing courage to press into all that God is calling them to be, or those who are curious enough to wonder what on earth God could have to say about who we are as leaders, as women, as image bearers of the Creator. Enjoy!
April 15, 2021
I listened to the audiobook version of Ready to Rise and it was like sitting down with a wise friend and leadership coach. Jo is forthright yet compassionate and the book was timely for me, as I am contemplating potential life transitions. As a woman who has been raising a family while at the same time in full-time vocational ministry, it has been a struggle to find models or mentors and Jo was that for me in this book. There's nothing fluffy or flaky here...She is honest and authentic about her own struggles as well as the obstacles women typically face when wanting to step up to influence the world around them. She brings the biblical stories to life and paints a vision for women to rise up to contribute to the flourishing of humanity, without a one-size-fits-all prescription. I think the greatest strength of the book are the reflection questions she asks throughout, helping the reader take these concepts toward tangible actions. Will certainly recommend this to any woman who is wanting to fully live into her God-given call and identity. It's time we broke away from the stereotypes and misconceptions that women are competitive and catty and instead, like Jo, encourage and make space for other women to rise up. Because if we do, we all win.
April 14, 2020
Thank you, Jo, for writing exactly what I needed to read during this time. I sometimes think that my voice is too much for those around me, and now I am learning that my voice is exactly what those around me need. Thank you for showing me the importance of self-care and community while I step into my influence.
May 1, 2022
Some good practical advice. Not everything seemed relevant to me in my specific role but could be helpful to many women. Good reminder to use my voice and be authentic. Helpful tips for seeking out mentors and relationships.
March 19, 2021
3.5 stars
June 2, 2020
‘If there was ever a time to uncover our potential and voices - it’s now. Now is the time to boldly and authentically rise.’ The more I read of this the more inspired, challenged and excited I am. I, like Jo, am someone with strong opinions. Kind people call me direct but I know that I can be blunt! Since I was ordained in June 2019 God has been challenging me on using my voice well, using it to be ‘graciously challenging.’ I’m reviewing this now knowing that the rest of the book will not disappoint. I love the questions at the end of each chapter, the chance to work out what it means for ME to be Ready to Rise, for ME to own my voice, GATHER my community and STEP into my influence. I have especially loved the exploration of women in the early Church and the thought that Jesus raised the profile of all humans by showing them what God intended them to be. I love the way Jo weaves scripture, experience and ideas together in a way that is readable, appealing and enjoyable. Sometimes books about leadership and influence feel overwhelming and impossible to implement but Jo just gets it, she gets busy working women, mothers, daughters, pastors and speaks to them in the middle of the chaos in a way that just makes sense, and not only seems achievable but is! Thank you. This book is both timely and terrific!
April 25, 2020
There are times when you read a book to learn. You open it and are ready to be lavished with new ideas or general uses and plans that you can implement. You are genuinely ready to embrace the guidelines and the anecdotes as they teach you about someone else. It is an altogether different thing when you read something and you realize every story, every plan, every gem is speaking directly to you.
Ready To Rise by Jo Saxton is for every woman. Literally everyone who has ever lived, ever dreamed, ever desired anything at anytime. It’s not a self help book. It is however, self inspiring, self reflecting, self discovering and self encouraging. It’s a book that not only identifies, it clarifies and reminds in ways that most people, especially women shy away from. This book isn’t about someone else. Pages filled with ways to help other people be better, do better, but rather a book that is for you; one you wish you’d written in your journal and decided to live. Simply put, it’s a book that reads you. Knows you and kindly coaxes you to not only love who God made you, but to accept fully that your “just” and “only” were created just for you, only by God no matter how many others resemble you, rely on you or disregard you. Ready To Rise reminds us all that we are in a constant state of growth, if we are living, we are rising.
Ready To Rise by Jo Saxton is for every woman. Literally everyone who has ever lived, ever dreamed, ever desired anything at anytime. It’s not a self help book. It is however, self inspiring, self reflecting, self discovering and self encouraging. It’s a book that not only identifies, it clarifies and reminds in ways that most people, especially women shy away from. This book isn’t about someone else. Pages filled with ways to help other people be better, do better, but rather a book that is for you; one you wish you’d written in your journal and decided to live. Simply put, it’s a book that reads you. Knows you and kindly coaxes you to not only love who God made you, but to accept fully that your “just” and “only” were created just for you, only by God no matter how many others resemble you, rely on you or disregard you. Ready To Rise reminds us all that we are in a constant state of growth, if we are living, we are rising.
April 16, 2020
Jo Saxton has written a book specifically about the unique challenges women face in leadership. Her writing is genuine, real and inviting. She speaks to the heart of the struggle women face and have faced in any form of leadership or influence. Jo inspires the reader with stories of biblical characters, real women, that God used to display his love and purpose for. The book is not only filled with quality content but each chapter is followed up with questions that call the reader to action in digging deeper into their challenges and beliefs about their voice, purpose, and beliefs. As I read I felt as if Jo was in my thoughts and knew my struggles personally. Her discoveries and delivery will hit the heart of every woman that reads this book.
April 14, 2020
I have never thought of myself as a leader and I have never wanted to lead anyone. When I stumbled upon Jo Saxton a few years ago she scared me and intrigued at the same time. In my head she was born like that “ bold and courageous “. I did not think she had anything to offer me because I am timid and quiet and so not a leader.
I listened to her and GLS 2019 and decided that I would like to know more. Ready to Rise has been such an eye opener for me. Chapter 8 was my favorite because it was meant for me “ who knew that you could grow grit?”
She has so many gems that have kickstarted my stalled leadership journey. I knew I was raised for such a time this but this book has given me the bricks to pave my way. Now I can say “ I am ready to rise”.
I listened to her and GLS 2019 and decided that I would like to know more. Ready to Rise has been such an eye opener for me. Chapter 8 was my favorite because it was meant for me “ who knew that you could grow grit?”
She has so many gems that have kickstarted my stalled leadership journey. I knew I was raised for such a time this but this book has given me the bricks to pave my way. Now I can say “ I am ready to rise”.
April 23, 2020
I've been following Jo Saxton's work for quite some time and was delighted to read this book. Geared towards women who lead in any context, "Ready to Rise" is a call to action. As a woman in leadership and often the only woman in the room, it can be challenging to find one's voice, but Jo encourages just that through Biblical examples, practical tips and sound advice. Jo's passion for empowering others is evident and her wisdom quite applicable. I highly recommend this book to anyone who seeks to step out into healthy and empowered leadership spheres to which you've been called.
I received an advance digital copy of this book. This is my honest review.
I received an advance digital copy of this book. This is my honest review.
May 26, 2020
I was fortunate to receive an advance reader copy of ‘Ready to Rise’ at the perfect time. I grew up in the church and had spent some time away as an adult. I received my copy in the midst of a women’s retreat and a call to join a church that I have volunteered in over the last year.
Ready to Rise is a must read for women who are ready to equip themselves and step into leadership roles. The world is ready for women to pull a seat up to the table and contribute their God given gifts. Jo tackles the common scenarios that hinder women from stepping out from their comfort zone through both personal and world examples.
I highly recommend this read!
Ready to Rise is a must read for women who are ready to equip themselves and step into leadership roles. The world is ready for women to pull a seat up to the table and contribute their God given gifts. Jo tackles the common scenarios that hinder women from stepping out from their comfort zone through both personal and world examples.
I highly recommend this read!
April 14, 2020
WOW! It's amazing how timely this book is in the world right now. During a time where we need to be socially distant this book is all about finding your voice, being with your community, and stepping into your influence. It's a timely book because of the time we have to read and focus on what Biblical truths and that is what Jo has in this book. She not only weaves in her story but Biblical leaders lives as well as practical ways for us to step into our influence and thus helping others to do the same. Thank you Jo for such a timely book!
April 16, 2020
Ladies, if you are looking for an encouraging and empowering read, Ready to Rise would be a great choice! Jo Saxton talks about how to use your spiritual gifts, find your voice, take care of yourself, allowing yourself to be healed by our Savior, grow your grit, and surround yourself with a supportive village. One part of the book that stood out to me was when she discussed how the word in the Bible for women in Genesis was "ezer", which is often translated as "helper". Ezer means "to rescue, to save, to be strong". Saxton highlighted some important female leaders in the Bible such as Deborah, Jael, and Mary. She also included stories about a group of female leaders who started meeting, and how they found their voices and inspiration through supporting each other.
Some of my favorite quotes from this book included:
"If there was ever a time to uncover our potential and voices - it's now. Now is the time to boldly and authentically represent God's goodness in the world. Living as channels for his transformative change and power. Now is the time to rise."
"We cannot present or perform our way out of our own brokenness, no matter how hard we try. Nevertheless, Jesus doesn't need us to keep it all together, to pretend life and people haven't happened to us. He's the kind of leader who tends to His leaders, lays down His life for their whole lives."
"However you live into your influence, whatever way you hope to make an impact on your world, you will need grit for the journey."
"When I'm feeling negative about my voice or my influence or my impact, I need to take my mind off myself and retain perspective. One way I do this is through practicing thankfulness."
"You always had a twofold purpose: having a relationship with God and then representing Him in the world around you - to play your part in the Great Commission."
"Our leadership is not the end result; a better world, filled with God's love and light, shaped by His mercy and justice and grace, is. All things made new."
I would recommend this book for all women, especially those who are in or are seeking to be in leadership positions. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, as part of the launch team, in return for an honest review.
Some of my favorite quotes from this book included:
"If there was ever a time to uncover our potential and voices - it's now. Now is the time to boldly and authentically represent God's goodness in the world. Living as channels for his transformative change and power. Now is the time to rise."
"We cannot present or perform our way out of our own brokenness, no matter how hard we try. Nevertheless, Jesus doesn't need us to keep it all together, to pretend life and people haven't happened to us. He's the kind of leader who tends to His leaders, lays down His life for their whole lives."
"However you live into your influence, whatever way you hope to make an impact on your world, you will need grit for the journey."
"When I'm feeling negative about my voice or my influence or my impact, I need to take my mind off myself and retain perspective. One way I do this is through practicing thankfulness."
"You always had a twofold purpose: having a relationship with God and then representing Him in the world around you - to play your part in the Great Commission."
"Our leadership is not the end result; a better world, filled with God's love and light, shaped by His mercy and justice and grace, is. All things made new."
I would recommend this book for all women, especially those who are in or are seeking to be in leadership positions. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, as part of the launch team, in return for an honest review.
April 16, 2020
Ready to Rise
Own Your Voice, Gather Your Community, Step into Your Influence
by Jo Saxton
WaterBrook & Multnomah
WaterBrook
Christian | Religion & Spirituality
Pub Date 14 Apr 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Ready to Rise through WaterBrook & Multnomah and Netgalley:
In this book Jo Saxton reminds the readers if there is every a time for us to find out voices and fulfill our potential the time is now. She goes on to encourage the readers to think of their family trees, think of their storie bys and experiences and think of how the limits as well as opportunities shaped the lives of the women in their family tree.
The readers are reminded too that we need the voices and influence of healthy and empowered women who are taking their places to make an impact on the world for the common good.
Saxton goes on to remind us how Jesus used women, how their lives impacted the early Church. The woman of Jesus time did not have the ability to look up to Christian women from the past, because they were the first.
The readers are reminded too that we do not have to carry life's burdens alone. It is pointed out that our voices are more than mere words, our words are our God given identity and purpose in action.
We are reminded too that Your voice has real potential— for encouragement, for strengthening people in life’s trenches, and for tangible influence for good in the world.
If you are a woman looking for an empowering book to read during this time of Self Isolation, I recommend Ready to Rise!
Five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Own Your Voice, Gather Your Community, Step into Your Influence
by Jo Saxton
WaterBrook & Multnomah
WaterBrook
Christian | Religion & Spirituality
Pub Date 14 Apr 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Ready to Rise through WaterBrook & Multnomah and Netgalley:
In this book Jo Saxton reminds the readers if there is every a time for us to find out voices and fulfill our potential the time is now. She goes on to encourage the readers to think of their family trees, think of their storie bys and experiences and think of how the limits as well as opportunities shaped the lives of the women in their family tree.
The readers are reminded too that we need the voices and influence of healthy and empowered women who are taking their places to make an impact on the world for the common good.
Saxton goes on to remind us how Jesus used women, how their lives impacted the early Church. The woman of Jesus time did not have the ability to look up to Christian women from the past, because they were the first.
The readers are reminded too that we do not have to carry life's burdens alone. It is pointed out that our voices are more than mere words, our words are our God given identity and purpose in action.
We are reminded too that Your voice has real potential— for encouragement, for strengthening people in life’s trenches, and for tangible influence for good in the world.
If you are a woman looking for an empowering book to read during this time of Self Isolation, I recommend Ready to Rise!
Five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Want to read
July 9, 2020Ready to Rise by Jo Saxton is a must read for all women. Even if you are not in a leadership role you will relate to so many of her stories and situations. I highlighted so many sections of this book that are encouraging and reminders. And sometimes a nugget that helped me know I am not alone in the situations I face.
It is amazing that Jo wrote this book before knowing we would be in a pandemic, economic and racial unrest. So many times in the book you felt that she was writing for this specific time period.
Jo addresses the challenges that women face in leadership, influence and accepting our gifts. She solidifies her messages with stories of her own personal journey, those of biblical times and women of today. Jo has a writing skill that makes you feel that she is talking directly to you.
I was able to read this book for free from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. However know that I enjoyed this book so much I bought it for three of my friends. This book would make an excellent book club selection. I am knew to Jo’s writing and speaking but am following her now and thrilled to have found her voice of encouragement.
I received this book from author and/or publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
It is amazing that Jo wrote this book before knowing we would be in a pandemic, economic and racial unrest. So many times in the book you felt that she was writing for this specific time period.
Jo addresses the challenges that women face in leadership, influence and accepting our gifts. She solidifies her messages with stories of her own personal journey, those of biblical times and women of today. Jo has a writing skill that makes you feel that she is talking directly to you.
I was able to read this book for free from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. However know that I enjoyed this book so much I bought it for three of my friends. This book would make an excellent book club selection. I am knew to Jo’s writing and speaking but am following her now and thrilled to have found her voice of encouragement.
I received this book from author and/or publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
April 14, 2020
[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
Jo Saxton is one of my favorite speakers from If:Gathering. In fact, her sermon this year, tied into this book, was one of my favorites. It made me look forward to reading this, and I was not disappointed.
I loved this look at women in leadership, especially in church leadership, but not exclusively. My favorite chapters were the ones in the middle about saying yes to who you are and using your voice. Each chapter includes at least a reflection question or two at the end, and they made me long for a pen and a journal. I will be picking up my own copy of this now that it has released so I can write in it and dig into these questions personally.
There's a good balance here between personal stories, Bible stories, and practical application. Bible stories include the creation story, the story of Deborah, and the foot washing scene from John 13. The tone is conversational. In fact, there are several passages that are examples from a gathering of women, and I would have loved to be part of those conversations.
If you love Jo, and/or if you are looking for a resource to explore your God-given gifts and voice to use for God's purposes and for your passions, be sure to pick this one up!
Jo Saxton is one of my favorite speakers from If:Gathering. In fact, her sermon this year, tied into this book, was one of my favorites. It made me look forward to reading this, and I was not disappointed.
I loved this look at women in leadership, especially in church leadership, but not exclusively. My favorite chapters were the ones in the middle about saying yes to who you are and using your voice. Each chapter includes at least a reflection question or two at the end, and they made me long for a pen and a journal. I will be picking up my own copy of this now that it has released so I can write in it and dig into these questions personally.
There's a good balance here between personal stories, Bible stories, and practical application. Bible stories include the creation story, the story of Deborah, and the foot washing scene from John 13. The tone is conversational. In fact, there are several passages that are examples from a gathering of women, and I would have loved to be part of those conversations.
If you love Jo, and/or if you are looking for a resource to explore your God-given gifts and voice to use for God's purposes and for your passions, be sure to pick this one up!
April 14, 2020
As a long time reader, listener, and admirer Jo Saxton's preaching, teaching and speaking - this book is pure inspiration from the start. Jo's inspirational from page one and her Bible knowledge as well as fire for women knowing His truth is evident as the reader makes their way through this book. Food for my hungry soul, I found myself highlighting and making notes more often than not and finally realized I needed to pull my Bible out to really delve deeper into this while following Jo's words. She has a 'build you up' vocabulary that draws you near to God and also pushes you to feel like you have your own cheerleader in her. Maybe Jo and God is where it will start and from their the reader realizes the hidden gifts that have been there all along. Use them. Don't hide them. This book will lift all readers and to help them to rise up to the challenge, mission, purpose that He has set inside our hearts and mind. The lay out makes you think; with each chapter digging into scripture and ending with thoughtful questions. I enjoyed having a notebook near me to jot down notes throughout reading but then also allowing myself time at the ends to pause and reflect. I received an advanced copy from Waterbrook and Multnomah, & Netgalley. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
April 15, 2020
Jo Saxton has been a friend, mentor, leader and coach who has transformed my life. Her writing is honest, invites healthy reflection and always moves us toward action. Ready to Rise helps us to name those things that are holding us back in our leadership, and more fully own our gifts, skills and desires so we may move forward and authority and confidence. Since engaging the content of this book, I have been able to name more readily the gifts I have not owned fully and the areas I have diminished my leadership for the comfort of others. Daily, I have broken down people pleasing tendencies, and used my voice and my gifts more fully. This book has transformed my leadership. To be clear, it is not just a book to read, it is a book to journey with. It is a book to sit with, notice what it is stirring up and then take direct action to move toward greater life and ownership of one's gifts. Take the journey, my friends. It is a worthwhile investment in your leadership.
April 24, 2020
A new book on leadership for Christian women!
It takes a woman leader to encourage Christian women to lead! (You can quote me!)
Jo is a woman who leads, and speaks to groups, and writes books!
When I first picked up this book, I knew it was about encouraging Christian women to find their voice and influence people, but I did not know it was about the art of leadership for Christian women.
This book is full of tips and steps to follow. It also is full of encouragement! Jo gives examples from her own experience as a leader, and uses several Bible stories as examples of women in leadership in the Church.
Jo says that is many women in leadership give up. So please, if you are a woman in a leadership position, or you want to move into a leadership position, read this book. That is my advice. Don’t try to do it alone.
It takes a woman leader to encourage Christian women to lead! (You can quote me!)
Jo is a woman who leads, and speaks to groups, and writes books!
When I first picked up this book, I knew it was about encouraging Christian women to find their voice and influence people, but I did not know it was about the art of leadership for Christian women.
This book is full of tips and steps to follow. It also is full of encouragement! Jo gives examples from her own experience as a leader, and uses several Bible stories as examples of women in leadership in the Church.
Jo says that is many women in leadership give up. So please, if you are a woman in a leadership position, or you want to move into a leadership position, read this book. That is my advice. Don’t try to do it alone.
August 8, 2021
The only reason it took 3 months to finish this book was because the chapters are full of such rich insight, truth & encouragement that I had to go back and re-listen to them again and again.
I can’t recommend this book enough. Although it’s written to women - from those who are still trying to find their voice to those who’ve lead for a long time - it is also an incredible resource for men. As leaders, it helpful to have an understanding for the struggles faced by those you’re leading. It also helps you be able to speak into your teams, raise them up, encourage them well and grow their gifts and even their potential.
Jo uses the perfect blend of spiritual truth with practical guidance to direct women in every stage of their leadership journey.
Thankful for this incredible resource. I’ll be sharing it with the women in my circle of influence for sure!
I can’t recommend this book enough. Although it’s written to women - from those who are still trying to find their voice to those who’ve lead for a long time - it is also an incredible resource for men. As leaders, it helpful to have an understanding for the struggles faced by those you’re leading. It also helps you be able to speak into your teams, raise them up, encourage them well and grow their gifts and even their potential.
Jo uses the perfect blend of spiritual truth with practical guidance to direct women in every stage of their leadership journey.
Thankful for this incredible resource. I’ll be sharing it with the women in my circle of influence for sure!
April 5, 2020
𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯'𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘪𝘯 𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.
In Ready To Rise, Jo Saxton brings light to the issues (eg. sexism, insecurities, finances and such) that discourage women in leadership. She encourages us to own our voices, to build our communities and to step into our influence.
Written from a faith-based perspective, Jo shares stories of female leaders from the Bible such as Deborah and Priscilla. Jo uses Scripture to affirm that God created women for leadership.
𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳, 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳, 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘎𝘰𝘥'𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘏𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦.
Jo Saxton is one of my favorite women to learn from. I've had the privilege of hearing her speak twice and have now read three of her books. I always appreciate her voice and thoughts.
In Ready To Rise, Jo Saxton brings light to the issues (eg. sexism, insecurities, finances and such) that discourage women in leadership. She encourages us to own our voices, to build our communities and to step into our influence.
Written from a faith-based perspective, Jo shares stories of female leaders from the Bible such as Deborah and Priscilla. Jo uses Scripture to affirm that God created women for leadership.
𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳, 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳, 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘎𝘰𝘥'𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘏𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦.
Jo Saxton is one of my favorite women to learn from. I've had the privilege of hearing her speak twice and have now read three of her books. I always appreciate her voice and thoughts.
April 14, 2020
I absolutely loved "Ready to Rise" ! Saxton is adept at encouraging her readers to leave fear behind, running towards what God has called us to, unafraid.
The book is a clarion call to step out and use our talents for not only lifting others, but continuing on the path God has for our lives. Saxton is a truth teller and a friend you can lean on.
This would be a great read for all ages of women.
I think in a group setting, this would springboard a lot of conversation and growth among friends.
If you enjoyed "The Dream of You," don't miss out on "Ready To Rise." Saxton continues to gift us with wisdom, perspective and guidance.
I was an early reader, thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher. I can't wait for my pre order copy to arrive!! All opinions are my own honest thoughts.
The book is a clarion call to step out and use our talents for not only lifting others, but continuing on the path God has for our lives. Saxton is a truth teller and a friend you can lean on.
This would be a great read for all ages of women.
I think in a group setting, this would springboard a lot of conversation and growth among friends.
If you enjoyed "The Dream of You," don't miss out on "Ready To Rise." Saxton continues to gift us with wisdom, perspective and guidance.
I was an early reader, thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher. I can't wait for my pre order copy to arrive!! All opinions are my own honest thoughts.
April 15, 2020
Jo summarizes Jesus’ call to women, and really God’s view of women throughout history, in one of the chapters. It was refreshing to hear Biblical support for the idea that women leaders are of equal value and equipping as men. Women posses important giftings that this world needs for us to contribute.
A favorite component of the book is that each chapter ends with reflection questions to pause and make it personal. Initially I read an advanced copy on my e-reader. I cannot wait to get my pre-ordered paper copy in the mail to go back, re-read, and fill the pages with reflections at the end of each chapter. God delights in women leading! I feel I have been hiding from a specific calling, and this book paved the way for me to come out of hiding and take action.
A favorite component of the book is that each chapter ends with reflection questions to pause and make it personal. Initially I read an advanced copy on my e-reader. I cannot wait to get my pre-ordered paper copy in the mail to go back, re-read, and fill the pages with reflections at the end of each chapter. God delights in women leading! I feel I have been hiding from a specific calling, and this book paved the way for me to come out of hiding and take action.
April 29, 2020
What I loved most about this book is how Jo Saxton has masterfully woven personal stories, Biblical truths and the voices of other leaders to assist us to be ready to rise. Her words are already helping me embrace my God given talents, while challenging me to work on sharpening the skills and gifts I already posses. Saxton has an ability to combine her personal and interpersonal skills to convey her message, which I found useful because it didn't leave me wishing I had been given practical ways to implement the new information offered. If you are looking for a book with a well-rounded, healthy approach to being a woman in leadership, this is your book. (I was given an ARC for my honest review)
May 12, 2020
I was excited to read Ready to Rise, but I had no idea how deeply it would resonate with me. I could not wait to share quotes with my friends because she truly captured how I have often felt as a female leader. The section in which Jo identified her true feelings about her call to leadership gave me so much comfort because I had never heard another vocalize my internal feelings so eloquently as she has. This book is inspiring, yet practical. I thoroughly enjoyed the authentic conversations she highlighted from the small group of female leaders that she led and the suggestions she makes to incorporate in our own lives. I am more convinced in the power of community and the need to reach out, and I have to say that this book came right on time. Thank you for your obedience Jo!
May 15, 2020
Ready to Rise: Own Your Voice, Gather Your Community, Step into Your Influence
So So Good!!! This book is exactly what I needed in this season of leadership! I'm so glad I got my hands on it and I am so thankful that I was able to share it with my daughters who are growing into womanhood & leadership! Jo Saxton has a way of delivering a powerful message we all need to hear, asking the questions we all need in order to grow into leadership AND help us with the game plan to move forward with our village! -Liz T.
So So Good!!! This book is exactly what I needed in this season of leadership! I'm so glad I got my hands on it and I am so thankful that I was able to share it with my daughters who are growing into womanhood & leadership! Jo Saxton has a way of delivering a powerful message we all need to hear, asking the questions we all need in order to grow into leadership AND help us with the game plan to move forward with our village! -Liz T.
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