Faith

Pilgrimage of the Heart: a devotional book review

My Bible study group at church spent the past 8+ weeks working our way through this study by Catherine Martin entitled Pilgrimage of the Heart: Satisfy Your Longing for Adventure with God.

This book was originally published in 2003 with a second edition done in 2016. With that said, it definitely took me back to my college days! Many of the quotes were from books and authors that were popular then, such as The Sacred Romance by Brent Curtis and John Eldridge. She also quoted Tozier and Spurgeon often, which I appreciated. Another author she quoted who I feel like I should know, and who I definitely want to read more from now, is Hannah Whitall Smith. Good stuff…here’s an example:

It may sometimes seem so impossible that the Lord can or does save that the words will not say themselves inside, but have to be said aloud, forcing one’s lips to utter them over and over, shutting one’s eyes and closing one’s ears against every suggestion of doubt no matter how plausible it may seem.

Hannah Whitall Smith in The God of All Comfort

Besides nice quotes this study was heavy on Scripture. I have a background in Precept studies by Kay Arthur so I appreciate a meaty Bible study. I also realize some people run away quickly when they here “Precept” because it has a reputation of being time consuming and tedious. On the other end of the spectrum, I have done my fair share of “lighter” Bible studies, (Beth Moore, Lysa TerKeurst, etc.) And enjoyed those as well. This study, in my opinion, is the perfect go-between.

The 5-6 days per week of study material was enough to keep me engaged but not too much as to overwhelm. The lessons, as I said earlier, are packed with Scripture. Each week she covers a different Psalm in detail and includes bountiful cross-references, and outside resources. She doesn’t always give you the answer and she doesn’t ask, “How does this make you feel?” Phew!

It may be strange that I’m reviewing a Bible study written 20 years ago but it was so refreshing I thought it deserved to be shared!

[There are video companions to go with this study, but we only sampled those. They weren’t necessary but I’m sure they would be beneficial as well.]

So travel back a couple of decades and pick this study up if you’re looking for a deep dive into the Psalms and a little challenge and encouragement for your walk with God.

This is her website: quiettime.org

I’ve ordered and plan to begin the next book in the series in the fall: Walk On Water Faith: Discovering Power In The Promises Of God

Maybe we can do it together!❤️

Faith, Fitness

Daily Dig: 12/31/20

Scripture: Psalm 119:137-144

“Righteous are you, O Lord, and right are your rules. You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness and in all faithfulness. My zeal consumes me, because my foes forget your words. Your promise is well tried, and your servant loves it. I am small and despised, yet I do not forget your precepts. Your righteousness is righteous forever, and your law is true.”

What a year.

Praise the Lord! He knew how badly I would need this foundation of daily digging in His word. He has dug deep in my soul and planted roots there that are unshakeable. They hold firm by the power of His Spirit and the gift of His grace. I’m so thankful to Him.

I pray that these scriptures and pictures and devotions and prayers (and workouts too!) have been a blessing in your life. Thank you for digging along with me all year.

Let’s keep pushing back the dark…

(That’s my motto for 2021.)


Journal: Write a prayer of thanks to God that even though this year held trouble and anguish we were held tight by His mighty hand.


Move: Last run of the year. Make it count.

{Beginner’s run #20: Walk 5 minutes to warm-up, then run 8 minute/walk 1 minute x3, then walk 5 minutes to cool-down.}


Praise the Lord, and keep showing up.

Faith, Fitness

Daily Dig: 12/30/20

Scripture: Psalm 119:113-120

“I hate the double-minded, but I love your law.”
“Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commandments of my God. Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live, and let me not be put to shame in my hope! Hold me up, that I may be safe and have regard for your statutes continually! You spurn all who go astray from your statutes, for their cunning is in vain. All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross, therefore I love your testimonies. My flesh trembles for fear of you, and I am afraid of your judgments.”

I didn’t write it. I just repeat it. God’s word speaks. Therein my hope lies.


Journal: Write a prayer thanking God for the hope found in His word.


Move: I use Jamie Eason’s plans as inspirations for most of my workouts. This is from her “From Flat to All That” program:


Praise the Lord, and keep showing up.