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Embracing Joy: An 8-Week Transformational Bible Study of Habakkuk
Has God ever seemed silent when you most needed help?
Learn how to turn panic into peace! In this 8-week Bible study of the tiny book of Habakkuk, you’ll dive into the turbulent world of one of the Old Testament prophets—a world not that different from ours today. You’ll discover how Hababkkuk pushed forward to choose trust and find joy despite the violence that ruled his homeland. With a conversational tone, guiding questions, and her three-step transformational Bible study method, Jean Wilund makes relevant connections to our life and times. Whether studying alone or with a group, you will experience the same powerful, life-altering truths that changed Habakkuk’s perspective long ago.
Learn how to turn panic into peace! In this 8-week Bible study of the tiny book of Habakkuk, you’ll dive into the turbulent world of one of the Old Testament prophets—a world not that different from ours today. You’ll discover how Hababkkuk pushed forward to choose trust and find joy despite the violence that ruled his homeland. With a conversational tone, guiding questions, and her three-step transformational Bible study method, Jean Wilund makes relevant connections to our life and times. Whether studying alone or with a group, you will experience the same powerful, life-altering truths that changed Habakkuk’s perspective long ago.
- GenresReligion
312 pages, Paperback
Published September 5, 2023
30 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
October 25, 2024
I enjoyed this study - getting to know Habakkuk, history, and God deeper. Wilund brings in many outside examples. She leans more toward emotional than factual, which is by no means wrong! I just prefer more factually deep studies. Still a great study 🙂
July 10, 2023
"Embracing Joy: An 8-Week Transformational Bible Study of Habakkuk" by Jean Wilund is a remarkable resource for individuals seeking lasting peace and hope amidst challenging circumstances. This book delves into the life of the prophet Habakkuk, who lived during a time of violence and unrest in the kingdom of Judah.
One of the standout features of this study is its emphasis on choosing joy, even in the midst of difficult situations. Habakkuk serves as a powerful example of finding joy and hope despite the surrounding chaos. Through this eight-week study, readers are encouraged to mark up the pages with notes and prayers, making it an interactive and personal experience.
Jean Wilund skillfully guides readers through the book of Habakkuk, highlighting the life-changing truths found within its pages. The author's ability to connect these ancient truths to present-day challenges makes the study relevant and practical for readers of all backgrounds.
The structure of the study, divided into eight weeks, allows for a systematic exploration of Habakkuk's life and message. This format is ideal for both individual study and group discussions, providing a framework for deeper reflection and shared insights.
"Embracing Joy" is not merely an intellectual exercise but a transformative journey. As readers engage with the study, they will discover profound wisdom and guidance that can shape their perspective and bring about personal growth. The author's passion for the subject matter is evident, and her writing style is accessible, making complex concepts and ideas easier to grasp.
Overall, "Embracing Joy: An 8-Week Transformational Bible Study of Habakkuk" is a highly recommended resource for individuals seeking to find peace and hope in the midst of life's challenges. Jean Wilund's insightful exploration of Habakkuk's story and the practical application of its timeless truths make this book a valuable companion for anyone on a spiritual journey.
One of the standout features of this study is its emphasis on choosing joy, even in the midst of difficult situations. Habakkuk serves as a powerful example of finding joy and hope despite the surrounding chaos. Through this eight-week study, readers are encouraged to mark up the pages with notes and prayers, making it an interactive and personal experience.
Jean Wilund skillfully guides readers through the book of Habakkuk, highlighting the life-changing truths found within its pages. The author's ability to connect these ancient truths to present-day challenges makes the study relevant and practical for readers of all backgrounds.
The structure of the study, divided into eight weeks, allows for a systematic exploration of Habakkuk's life and message. This format is ideal for both individual study and group discussions, providing a framework for deeper reflection and shared insights.
"Embracing Joy" is not merely an intellectual exercise but a transformative journey. As readers engage with the study, they will discover profound wisdom and guidance that can shape their perspective and bring about personal growth. The author's passion for the subject matter is evident, and her writing style is accessible, making complex concepts and ideas easier to grasp.
Overall, "Embracing Joy: An 8-Week Transformational Bible Study of Habakkuk" is a highly recommended resource for individuals seeking to find peace and hope in the midst of life's challenges. Jean Wilund's insightful exploration of Habakkuk's story and the practical application of its timeless truths make this book a valuable companion for anyone on a spiritual journey.
May 24, 2023
Embracing Joy is an 8-week devotional study on Habakkuk.
Jean Wilund uses the transformational Bible study method to delve into verses from the book of Habakkuk. She uses individual verse studies as well as broader sections.
I enjoyed this study for many reasons. Jean encourages readers to pray in every lesson, and she emphasizes writing Scripture. She also prompts readers to journal in a more open-ended way, which I liked a lot. She will start with the verse(s) the reader is studying and then broaden it to include other books in the Bible. She also connects every single day’s lesson to Jesus. She also uses personal stories to parallel the teaching to fit our every day lives. The end of each week comes with a list of group study questions that can help get conversations going as well, which can be helpful.
Only two things didn’t work as well for me, though I’d still recommend this study to others. First: some lessons weren’t as much about Habakkuk. I would have loved to have more specifically in his book, even if it meant the study was shorter.
Second: the last week felt out of place. I absolutely loved the last week because she uses the stories from five Christians or couples who depended on God. They were Aiden Wilson Tozier, Oswald Chambers, Jim and Elisabeth Elliot, John Newton, and David and Svea Flood. Each story was intriguing and educational, but they didn’t quite blend into the study itself. They would fit better in their own devotional.
Overall this study was enlightening to me, and I learned so much. Netgalley provided this book for my honest review.
Jean Wilund uses the transformational Bible study method to delve into verses from the book of Habakkuk. She uses individual verse studies as well as broader sections.
I enjoyed this study for many reasons. Jean encourages readers to pray in every lesson, and she emphasizes writing Scripture. She also prompts readers to journal in a more open-ended way, which I liked a lot. She will start with the verse(s) the reader is studying and then broaden it to include other books in the Bible. She also connects every single day’s lesson to Jesus. She also uses personal stories to parallel the teaching to fit our every day lives. The end of each week comes with a list of group study questions that can help get conversations going as well, which can be helpful.
Only two things didn’t work as well for me, though I’d still recommend this study to others. First: some lessons weren’t as much about Habakkuk. I would have loved to have more specifically in his book, even if it meant the study was shorter.
Second: the last week felt out of place. I absolutely loved the last week because she uses the stories from five Christians or couples who depended on God. They were Aiden Wilson Tozier, Oswald Chambers, Jim and Elisabeth Elliot, John Newton, and David and Svea Flood. Each story was intriguing and educational, but they didn’t quite blend into the study itself. They would fit better in their own devotional.
Overall this study was enlightening to me, and I learned so much. Netgalley provided this book for my honest review.
September 5, 2023
I deeply appreciate this author's in-depth look at the book of Habakkuk, and Habakkuk's interactions with God during very distressing times in his life and God's actions seemingly against the nation of Israel. I feel that serious readers who wish to delve genuinely into seeking greater knowledge and understanding of God's Word, will and ways will greatly appreciate this study.
This study kept my pen to the pages of my journal, responding to what the author was expounding about, helping to bring forth ones' own thoughts and feelings regarding what was happening in Habakkuk's time but that also relates to the current times. The spiritual exercises will keep one engaged in what is said and create plenty of time to keep a person on their knees in humble prayer before the Lord.
Jean Wilund, the authoress, has written this eight week study of Habakkuk with group study questions, memory verses, daily conviction prayers and so forth. It has been one of my best 'grow book' reads in a while. I do recommend it to those readers who would also like to learn more about God's Sovereignty.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
June 2023
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
This study kept my pen to the pages of my journal, responding to what the author was expounding about, helping to bring forth ones' own thoughts and feelings regarding what was happening in Habakkuk's time but that also relates to the current times. The spiritual exercises will keep one engaged in what is said and create plenty of time to keep a person on their knees in humble prayer before the Lord.
Jean Wilund, the authoress, has written this eight week study of Habakkuk with group study questions, memory verses, daily conviction prayers and so forth. It has been one of my best 'grow book' reads in a while. I do recommend it to those readers who would also like to learn more about God's Sovereignty.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
June 2023
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
March 28, 2023
When I started reading this Bible Study, I wondered how there would be enough material to fill eight weeks when the book of Habakkuk is a mere three chapters and a total of 56 verses? Believe me, Jean Wilund has risen to the task with this excellent Bible Study!
I especially like her new-to-me approach using the Transformational Bible Study Method.
(The following explanation of the method is taken from the book.)
1. Intent: What was the author's intent to his original audience?
2. Truth: What truths does God's Word reveal about the character, nature, and ways of God, and that of anyone or anything other than God?
3. Transformation: If I truly believe and act on what God has revealed in this passage, how with the motivations and attitudes of my heart transform and my actions be different tomorrow?
There are five lessons for each week followed by Group Study questions making this a good tool for both self and group studies.
Well done!
My thanks to Our Daily Bread Publishing for permitting me to access a DRC of the book via NetGalley. It is currently scheduled for publication 9/5/23. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own and are freely given.
I especially like her new-to-me approach using the Transformational Bible Study Method.
(The following explanation of the method is taken from the book.)
1. Intent: What was the author's intent to his original audience?
2. Truth: What truths does God's Word reveal about the character, nature, and ways of God, and that of anyone or anything other than God?
3. Transformation: If I truly believe and act on what God has revealed in this passage, how with the motivations and attitudes of my heart transform and my actions be different tomorrow?
There are five lessons for each week followed by Group Study questions making this a good tool for both self and group studies.
Well done!
My thanks to Our Daily Bread Publishing for permitting me to access a DRC of the book via NetGalley. It is currently scheduled for publication 9/5/23. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own and are freely given.
August 6, 2023
Embracing Joy is a close look at a small three-chapter Old Testament book, Habakkuk. By Jean Wilund, Embracing Joy dives verse by verse into this at first glance lacking joy scripture. However, the prophet Habakkuk chooses to hope and develop joy even with the evil and destruction coming around him.
An eight-week study I especially liked the format which could be applied to any study of sculpture. First was to look at Intent by considering the author’s intent to his original audience. Then look at Truth what is reveal about the unchanging and unchangeable character, nature, and ways of God and that of anyone or anything else in the passage. Then we look at ourselves or the Transformation that can happen in our hearts and minds along with questions that can be answered.
A small group study would enhance this even more comparing our thoughts with each other and not just the author’s. Since my copy was a digital pdf for review purposes of course a paper copy would be the way to go to get the most out of the study. Then there are places to write down answers and thoughts to the questions.
4.5 Stars
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
An eight-week study I especially liked the format which could be applied to any study of sculpture. First was to look at Intent by considering the author’s intent to his original audience. Then look at Truth what is reveal about the unchanging and unchangeable character, nature, and ways of God and that of anyone or anything else in the passage. Then we look at ourselves or the Transformation that can happen in our hearts and minds along with questions that can be answered.
A small group study would enhance this even more comparing our thoughts with each other and not just the author’s. Since my copy was a digital pdf for review purposes of course a paper copy would be the way to go to get the most out of the study. Then there are places to write down answers and thoughts to the questions.
4.5 Stars
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
Currently reading
October 31, 2023When a book resonates with your word of the year, you take notice! That's what drew me to Jean Wilund's Embracing Joy, a Bible study that explores the book of Habakkuk. And certainly, this study has led me on a journey to deeper joy. I appreciate Wilund's commitments to (1) attack a hard book of the Bible, (2) address some hard topics in the book of Habakkuk, (3) teach readers to study the Bible for themselves, not just spoon feed them, and (4) lead readers on a transformational journey where the Word truly transforms the everyday life.
Truly, this 8-week Bible study challenged my thinking in so many ways--to think biblically about joy and how it's a choice we make. Wilund's 3-step Bible study method (Intent, Truth, Transformation) mentors readers in how to dig deep into God's Word and allow it to change you at the deepest level. I learned so much, but I feel like I've got to read it again, but with a hard copy instead of an ebook. Pen on paper for a Bible study is so much easier than typing notes into a Kindle!
I highly recommend this Bible study, Embracing Joy, by Jean Wilund, and I look forward to more from this author. Thanks to Netgalley and Our Daily Bread for the ARC.
Truly, this 8-week Bible study challenged my thinking in so many ways--to think biblically about joy and how it's a choice we make. Wilund's 3-step Bible study method (Intent, Truth, Transformation) mentors readers in how to dig deep into God's Word and allow it to change you at the deepest level. I learned so much, but I feel like I've got to read it again, but with a hard copy instead of an ebook. Pen on paper for a Bible study is so much easier than typing notes into a Kindle!
I highly recommend this Bible study, Embracing Joy, by Jean Wilund, and I look forward to more from this author. Thanks to Netgalley and Our Daily Bread for the ARC.
March 5, 2023
I love this devotional! There are 5 days for each week. At the end of each week are group study questions which enables this to be done individually or as part of a Bible study.
I love that there are quick daily devotions, but the layout is very original and different than most devotionals. Most devotions start with 1 Bible verse, a cute little story, then end with a short prayer. This one delves into the history of the Bible. It is laid out in something called the Transformational Bible Study Method which consists of 1. Intent 2. Truth 3. Transformation.
Intertwined are stories that help relate the content to everyday life. While it's based on Habakkuk there are also many other Bible verses referenced.
This is a good one if you want a quick daily read, but want more depth and substance than most daily devotionals.
Thanks to Netgalley and Our Daily Bread Publishing for a digital ARC.
I love that there are quick daily devotions, but the layout is very original and different than most devotionals. Most devotions start with 1 Bible verse, a cute little story, then end with a short prayer. This one delves into the history of the Bible. It is laid out in something called the Transformational Bible Study Method which consists of 1. Intent 2. Truth 3. Transformation.
Intertwined are stories that help relate the content to everyday life. While it's based on Habakkuk there are also many other Bible verses referenced.
This is a good one if you want a quick daily read, but want more depth and substance than most daily devotionals.
Thanks to Netgalley and Our Daily Bread Publishing for a digital ARC.
September 11, 2023
I’ve read the book of Habakkuk probably twenty times. I love Habakkuk’s declaration of faith at the end (“Though the fig tree doesn’t blossom . . . “), but never fully understood the context or some of the confusing parts. BUT, I understand them now. Even better, I understand how a believer can embrace joy even when the world is falling down around you. I loved the personal and historical stories to introduce the lessons and found the boxes helpful for teaching me how to study the text and interact with it. I’m grateful that Wilund didn’t just stuff our head full of knowledge but, by asking us the same application question each time, encouraged (forced) us to apply the truth to our life and take a faith stand. Nothing passive about this study. I look forward to sharing the final version with my Bible study group.
November 15, 2023
This is a SERIOUSLY good book. I have not come across anything by this author before, but I am very impressed with the quality of this study. Habbukuh is a short but punchy book by one of the minor prophets in the Old Testament. Written at a very perilous moment in the history of the kingdom of Judah. The author uses the transformational bible study method, meticulously laid out for the reader. After all, the point of scripture is to transform lives. The book can be studied either alone or a part of a group. For a prophetic book of three chapters, this study really brings the prophets message to the fore in clear, and unambiguous way.. For serious bible students or for those who seek to deepen their understanding, this book is an exceptional resource.
May 9, 2023
As far as a book study, I’ve never studied Habakkuk and it was a delight to be able to dive into finding the joy through the hardships. We all face hard, we all face trials, and leaning into the heart of being contented in all things in Christ is foundational. Highly recommend if you’re doing a small group study to connect with others and seeing you’re not alone. It was also a delight in a study on my own, however; think it would be worth it to get a few people together to truck through it together.
February 5, 2024
most impactful bible study of my life
Nothing has turned my life around as the journey taken through this bible study. For the first time I understand how to experience joy and to truly see the trials, and horrible suffering in my life as amazing opportunities to be changed so I can change things. Asking God to remind me that He is my strength is life altering and life giving. Loved this book. I recommend it highly!
Nothing has turned my life around as the journey taken through this bible study. For the first time I understand how to experience joy and to truly see the trials, and horrible suffering in my life as amazing opportunities to be changed so I can change things. Asking God to remind me that He is my strength is life altering and life giving. Loved this book. I recommend it highly!
March 13, 2024
What a powerful study Jean Wilund’s book is! I don’t typically write in books, but Jean’s transformational Bible study into Habakkuk drew me in. The compelling statements Jean shared through each chapter reinforced the incredible truths of Habakkuk. I’ve since purchased another copy as a gift for a dear friend.
If you truly dig deep in this study along with Jean, your life will be changed. 🩷
If you truly dig deep in this study along with Jean, your life will be changed. 🩷
December 28, 2023
This is an amazing, well-written uplifting book that will help you find Joy through worshiping our Savior. Jean has done an excellent job of including scripture and personal and historical stories in order to help the reader understand and know God better.
July 28, 2025
This book is intense. It's over 300 pages about a 2 page book on the Bible. I found many of the chapters to be too much for one night/morning of study and too much handwriting. As the chapters went along they got a little less burdensome and the last chapter was actually my favorite.
July 26, 2023
A bible study of Habakkuk for eight weeks. There is plenty of information for me. Also, Jean Wilund gives us guided questions enough space to write your thoughts.
April 4, 2024
Found this really helpful
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