From YouVersion Daily Refresh, 5-31-25.
I am so thankful that His love is steadfast and faithful, always in all ways.
Month: May 2025
A Cheerful Giver
God provides for each of us so that we can in turn provide for others. He gives us time, talents and money and wants us to be generous with them. Instead, we tend to be insular, hoarding things “just in case we need them.” That is not God’s way!
Suppose God saw that you have a need and decided to wait or to hold onto His bounty “just in case” someone else needed it more. God owns everything, so He can bless everyone. He teaches us the concept of giving in the person of His ultimate sacrifice, giving His Son that we might have eternal life. So, who are we to say that we will just hold onto what we have and wait to see if we need it. There are people today who need what we can give. We may not be able to give much, but we can give something.
The great thing about giving is that honestly, once you have given, you won’t miss it. I have found that God blesses me in the most unexpected ways and at the most surprising times, if only I will open my hands and give. But I have to give with the right spirit, one of cheerful optimism, knowing that God will use what I give in a way that will bless others more than I can imagine. Talents? Use them for God. Time? Dedicate it to God. And money, that thing we have a tendency to hold on to? Don’t let money be the thing that stands between you and God’s blessing. Let it go and see what He will do.
When the Holy Spirit urges you to give, just do it, with a smile on your face and a light heart. Don’t expect to be repaid but rather give thinking you may never get repaid. The blessing you think you deserve won’t come the way you expect it or when you are demanding it, but it will come in God’s time and in proportion to your faithfulness.
God meets your needs when you meet the needs of others. It is the cycle of giving that God started and He wants us to continue it. I am not saying what to give or to whom to give, but I am saying that giving should be part of your Christian walk.
Have a blessed day! And may you give as the Spirit tells you of your time, talent and money.
Review: Attempted Mountain Abduction by Jessica R. Patch
About the Book
ISBN-13:9781335980632
Publisher:Harlequin
Publication date:05/27/2025
Series:Elite Protectors , #1
Pages:208
Hired to protect a murdered tech mogul’s daughter, undercover bodyguard Bridge Spencer never expects his ex-fiancée to blow his cover…while she’s trying to kidnap the child. But before he and former CIA spy Wendy Dawson can figure out whose side they’re on, they’re attacked. Setting aside his heartbreak, Bridge has no choice but to team up with the woman who abruptly dumped him in a letter three years ago. Guarding the child from assailants who are after her father’s top secret technology is priority one. But in the frigid Smoky Mountains, dangers are everywhere. The question is…which one is deadliest?
My Thoughts
The setting in the snowy Smoky Mountains is perfect for this story of Bridge, Wendy and Molly. Bridge is at a horse ranch, carrying out his assignment to protect a deceased tech genius’s young daughter when he unexpectedly encounters his former love, Wendy. Wendy has taken Molly and Bridge follows her to rescue Molly from what he thinks is a kidnapper. Neither of them understand the machinations that are going on behind the scenes, as a higher power than they can imagine wants to kill them and take Molly. The suspense is ramped up quickly as they flee from one danger to another, with what seems like headhunters coming for them from every direction, and uncooperative and dangerous weather conditions. There are some surprises and skillful misdirection by the author which kept me engaged and turning pages quickly. With faith as a part of the story, second chance love and a young, precocious child as the target, this book was fascinating and gripped me with the constant danger that threatened the trio at every turn. I really enjoyed all of the realistically portrayed characters, but my favorite was Molly, a child who stole my heart with her acceptance of their help and her total and complete trust in their ability to protect her. I didn’t see how things could possibly work out for Bridge and Wendy since both were stubborn and insistent that they would go their own way once they had safeguarded Molly. I especially enjoyed the inclusion of Bridge’s team of protectors in the story as it gave the story dept and added even more action to an already packed plot. I was immersed in the drama of the story and kept guessing who could be trying to hurt such an innocent and intelligent child. I never guessed correctly, but guessing was part of the fun of reading this book. The author has created a fast-moving and cleverly written story of love, betrayal and innocence, all within the pages of this remarkably well-crafted story.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
About the Author
Jessica R. Patch is a Publishers Weekly bestselling and award-winning author of more than 27 novels and is known for her dry wit, signatures twists, and complex characters. She loves reading true crime books, discussing cold cases over chips and salsa with her girlfriends, and hunting down sinister killers in her romantic suspense novels and dark, twisty thrillers.
She resides in the Memphis area with her husband and her spoiled tri-color Shetland Sheepdog since becoming empty nesters. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.
You’re invited to join the Patched In community at her website: www.jessicarpatch.com and receive a FREE short thriller, Nobody Has to Know.
Purchase Links
With appreciation to author Jessica R. Patch for the Advanced Reader Copy to read and review! Don’t miss out on this quick, clean read! Follow a link and get your copy today!
Review: TARGETED MONTANA WITNESS by Sharon Dunn
About the Book
ISBN-13:9781335980656
Publisher:Harlequin.
Publication date:05/27/2025
Pages:208
After being attacked in her workplace, Jillian Welch fears the worst—the mobsters behind her fiancé’s murder have found her. Uncertain of her safety in witness protection, she turns to Sheriff Luke Mayfair for help. But clues point to an obsessed fan of Jillian’s anonymous nightly podcast as her assailant. Now with potential threats all around, Jillian and Luke must seek refuge at Luke’s family farm. But when the continued ambushes escalate to attempted murder, they must expose the culprits before they get to Jillian first.
My Thoughts
Jillian Welch is in witness protection and has to call on the local sheriff, Luke Mayfair, when she starts receiving threats and overt attacks. She thinks her cover is blown, but she is not ready to give up her quiet life to start fresh in a new place with a new identity. When the danger ramps us and seems to come from all directions, she may not have a choice because even the self-sacrificing Luke may not be able to keep her safe from the multiple threats. This book makes a complicated plot into a satisfying and edgy page-turner that was hard to put down. With some head-spinning twists and escalating tension, this book kept me reading and guessing who was coming after Jillian and how would Luke be able to safeguard her in the face of the onslaught of attacks and danger. The marshal in charge of her case is a secondary character but extremely important to the story as he gave wise advice and really wanted to take care of Jillian but he depended on Luke’s help until he could get there. Luke is a swoon-worthy hero who puts himself and other family members in the line of fire in order to fulfill his mission to keep Jillian out of the hands of those who want to kill her. The plot is brilliant and fast-paced and the characters are relatable and realistic, with good chemistry between them as they face unknown and relentless danger. The setting was perfect for the story, with a small town with charm and characters who lent themselves to helping each other if there was a need. I enjoyed everything about this book and was emotionally invested in a good outcome.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
About the Author
Sharon Dunn started writing when she was pregnant with her oldest child. He is now 33 years old. She has written cozy and humorous mysteries along with over thirty romantic suspense novels. Her books have won awards and frequently appear on the USA and Publisher’s Weekly bestseller lists. She is a widow who lives next to a park with her cat Sparky. She has three adult children. When she isn’t writing, she loves going for walks, doing puzzles, reading and meeting up with friends. You can sign up for her newsletter and find out more about her at her website: Sharon Dunn
Purchase Links
Review of MISSING IN TEXAS by Virginia Vaughan
About the Book
ISBN-13:9781335980649 Publisher:Harlequin. Publication date:05/27/2025. Series:Lone Star Defenders , #2 Pages:208
Can she crack a decade-old cold case before the murderer silences her?
The moment FBI agent Christy Williams arrives in Mercy, Texas, determined to solve her friend’s disappearance twelve years ago, she becomes a killer’s number one target. Ignoring the threats on her life, she partners with Deputy Mike Tyner, the cousin of one of the chief suspects…and the last person to see her friend alive. As they work to investigate this cold case together, it becomes clear someone will stop at nothing to keep the past hidden. With time running out, can Mike keep Christy alive long enough to find justice for her friend?
My Thoughts
This is an intriguing book about an FBI agent who is pursuing a cold case in which her best friend and college roommate went home to Mercy, Texas, and disappeared. Poof! Vanished! Agent Christy Williams goes to Mercy to try to find out what happened to Dawn over a decade ago and ends up working with Detective Mike Tyner. There are some interesting dynamics in this scenario since Christy was friends with Dawn and Mike happens to be a cousin of a chief suspect, a man that Christy doesn’t trust at all. The plot is fast-paced with plenty of complications and red herrings. There are also a lot of really good clues that led me to guess who the villain was but my correct guess did not detract at all from the drama of the story and all of the events leading up to the conclusion. I enjoyed getting to know the relatable characters, but my real enjoyment came from the way the characters interacted and worked together to solve the mystery of what happened to Dawn. With a family’s peace of mind at stake, Christy is determined to find out the truth, even when it means that her life is in danger. This is a book cries out to be read quickly as it is hard to put down!
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
About the Author
Virginia Vaughan is a former investigator for the State of Mississippi who left a promising career to pursue her dream of being a writer. Blessed to come from a large, Southern family, her fondest memories include hearing stories recounted by family and friends around the large dinner table. She was a lover of books even from a young age, devouring gothic romance novels and stories of romance, danger, and love. She soon started writing them herself, delving into the genre of romantic suspense, armed with her passion for writing and the knowledge gained from her criminal justice background.
Visit her Readers page to learn more about Virginia’s books, giveaways, and more!
Other Book in the Series
Purchase Links for Missing in Texas:
Out, In, Through
Some of the most important words in the English language are prepositions. Prepositions play an important role in our sentences because they connect words and as a result our language is more precise and expressive. In today’s devotional, part of what I read is that Jesus freed us from slavery, just as God led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Since Egypt and slavery represent sin, Jesus freed us from our sins. He took us out of slavery, led us into the presence of the Father and today He continues to be with us through the wilderness that we face in life. He didn’t promise we wouldn’t have wilderness experiences, but He did promise that He would be with us when we face them. So…out, in, through. Has Jesus led you out of slavery? Are you secure in your privilege to go right before God and present yourself and your prayers to Him? Are you going through a wilderness right now? Do you feel the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate that Jesus promised would be with us?
This verse is powerful! Have any of you ever inherited anything? I once inherited a small sum of money from my great aunt. The inheritance was a surprise and I put it away in my savings account as I prayed for what I should use it for. I ended up buying a new bedroom set and then my husband and I took the trip that I had always dreamed of to Spain. I didn’t do anything that I know of to receive this inheritance. My aunt was a distant presence in my life, the one who taught me how to set a table and behave properly once I got there. She had no children, so she divided her estate between her nieces and nephews. The inheritance that we have from God is so much bigger and better than we can imagine. We are His children and His heirs. The riches we inherit on earth can never compare to what He has in store for us in Heaven. From slaves to to an heir is a pretty big leap, but Jesus took us OUT of slavery, led us into freedom and promised to be with us until we stand in the presence of the Father as His heirs. Those who were once enslaved can probably tell you that they don’t want to go back there again. But, as Christians, sometimes, we turn back to our old ways and sin. Jesus doesn’t leave us there in our servitude to slavery; rather, in I John 1:9, He provides a way back to freedom by repenting and asking for forgiveness. God’s plan is for salvation for all: out, in and through. Our victory and ultimate destination depend on the work that He already completed to purchase our redemption. So, I ask you again. Have you been redeemed out of slavery? Are you free to worship in the presence of the Almighty God? Are you walking through the wilderness and not lingering there as you throw yourself a pity party?
Out, In, Through!
Finishing Well
www.bible.com/reading-plans/53242/day/144
Many of us did not start our lives on the right path, but no matter where or how we started, we can finish well. Instead of being like King Saul who started well and finished badly, let’s strive to be like Paul, who started as Saul persecuting the Christians, but who finished well as a follower of Jesus. Let us all strive to finish well, keeping our eyes on the prize ahead of us.
A Life that Reflects His Love
It is very easy to get busy with our own lives and forget that there are people who need help. We say we will pray for them, but do we? When is prayer not enough? We have quickly discovered that we can send money to a good cause and our conscience about helping others is assuaged. Jesus did not say to send money. He said to “go.” I am guilty of being one of those who tends to be insular, staying at home and sending money. I want to be more active, to look around and see the needs of others and to meet them if I can. And if I cannot, I want to find someone who can. There is so much evil and greed in the world. I want to reflect Jesus with my love, a heart of compassion and real caring. How do I do that? I don’t know, but I am willing to find out. So, my heart’s cry is “Send me.”
Send Me-Jenn Johnson with Chris Quilala
Please take the time to listen to the words of this song. Our answer to God should always be “yes” before He even asks. After all, He sought us out before we even knew Him.
Being Still: Trusting God in the Chaos
narrowpathministries.wordpress.com/2025/05/21/being-still-trusting-god-in-chaos/
Please go to the original post, follow Narrow Path Ministries and the author of this post. Good, Biblical advice and helpful, too!
Review of NO TIME TO DIE by Taylor S. Newport
About the Book
- ASIN : B0DQ9QVR1B
- Publisher : Whitewater River Publishing
- Publication date : May 15, 2025
- Language : English
- Print length : 636 pages
- Book 2 of 2 : Dauntless Defenders
The enemy believes the battle is nearly over, but he’s just getting started.
Sector 17 has tried to silence the Ghost of Oz, but he doesn’t back down. Back on the hunt, Tyler Reid uncovers chilling truths that challenge everything he knows about his enemy and the woman who works for them. Caught between protecting a Russian heiress and the job she has to do, Tyler starts to question who he can rely on.
Alexandra “Alex” Romanova has been told who she is, but fragmented memories hint at a past she’s reluctant to reclaim—a past far darker than what she remembers. When Tyler offers her a chance to escape her cruel boss at Sector 17, the plight of young recruits being turned into killers weighs heavily on her conscience. She’s determined to give them the same freedom she’s found, but doesn’t realize that in doing so she has put them all at risk.
As the head of Sector 17 clings to power, Tyler and Alex are caught in the middle of a deadly war for lives, freedom, and revenge. With enemies closing in on all sides, they can’t save everyone. The stakes are higher than ever—there is no time to die.
My Thoughts
The second book in the Dauntless Defenders series answered a lot of questions that I had about the backstory of Tyler and Alex and created an entire new web of intricate relationships and subterfuge. Alex is determined to save the kids who were forced to work for Sector 17 while Tyler is equally determined to safely return Alex to her grandfather in Russia. Neither goal is easy to accomplish and the book is woven around their efforts as well as the conflict between the CIA and Sector 17 which keeps Tyler and Alex somewhat floundering in the middle between two entities that seem to be willing to self-destruct rather than let the other side win. The foundation of faith is evident, but there are some triggers in the story, including human trafficking and child abuse. Details of both are not such that they are stomach-turning, and they are presented in a way to seamlessly fit into the story without becoming the central focus. I enjoyed getting to know the characters better in this second book. Although the book is lengthy, once I got into the story, I was not even aware of how long I was reading because I lost myself in the lives of the characters and in the challenges that they faced. The plot was moderately paced at first as the author introduced the characters and the conflicts and picked up to a quick pace once I knew all of the players and their goals in the story. Told from various points of view and also including a dual timeline, this was a book that kept me thinking and wondering what could possibly happen next to thwart the main characters from fulfilling their missions. There were some head-spinning surprises that I really didn’t expect and thoroughly enjoyed. Best of all, this book ends in a way that I wanted the series to definitely continue so that I could see more of the romantic relationship develop between some of the characters. All of the conflict within the boundaries of this novel were resolved in a satisfying way that made me happy that I read the book and thrilled that the saga will continue. This book is a military/spy thriller comparable to Tom Clancy but with a strong and clear faith element.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
About the Author
Taylor S Newport is an up and coming Christian author. Four years of research has brought her to release her first high-octane novel to the world. In 2024, she placed as a Finalist in the ACFW Genesis Contest. Currently, she travels the United States with her family and GSD mix, Bella, probably writing her next novel.
Words from the author: “As an author, my mission is to provide readers with thrilling and engaging novels that maintain a high standard of integrity. I believe that a compelling story can captivate and entertain without relying on explicit language or inappropriate content. My books are designed to deliver exhilarating, action-packed narratives that will keep you engrossed from start to finish.”
Website: https://www.taylorsnewport.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorsnewport_author/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.s.newport.2025/
X: https://x.com/TaylorSNewport
Purchase Link
Don’t miss the first book in the Dauntless Defenders series!
Vickie's Book Nook and Meditation Corner 