Review: 40 Days of Woman Writer's Devotions
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 7, 2014
Title: The 40-Day Devotional ChallengeAuthor:  Kathi MaciasPublisher: Elk Lake PublishingISBN # 978-0-9793543-9-7“When God lays out that first step of faith- regardless of how intimidating it may seem – I pray we will all learn to lean into Him for strength and trust Him to carry us through to victory,” Kathi Macias writes in her book, "The 40-Day Devotional Challenge."This eighty-four page e-book targets readers looking for a quick Christian women’s devotional that can be read daily over a forty-day period. Mainly using the New King James Version of the Bible, the NASB is also referenced.With no page of contents, a note from the author and her biography starts the beginning of the book. Each of the forty devotionals covers two to four pages of writing with two to three lined pages to add personal notes. A final note from the author ends the reading.The devotion starts with a short Bible verse written out, taken from both Old and New Testaments of the Bible. With many Psalms, verses from Genesis, Exodus, the Kings, and both Samuels to Ruth, Isaiah, and Micah are mixed with the Gospels and Paul’s letters.Each theme includes several paragraphs regarding the verse, mostly mentioning the writer’s experiences of writing books with deadlines, traveling for family visits, other books and hymns enjoyed, and her personal viewpoints. There are references to Biblical characters such as Moses, the Israelites, Nadab, Abihu, Ahab, Adonijah, David, Solomon, Eli, the Apostle Paul, and Jesus within some of the devotions.As Macias gleans from heroines researched for her books, replies to responses from Facebook posts, and tells of her grandmother’s passing, she nudges the reader to focus more on God, rely on Him daily, pray more fervently, and trust in Him.One example is Day 35, noting Philippians 4:11-12 about being content in all things. Discussing the well-known hymn, “It Is Well with My Soul,” the author examines her faith, trying to accept her lot in life regardless of the circumstances. She challenges the reader to recommit and immerse more fervently in God’s presence and love.Similar to most devotionals, this book reflects the thoughts and personal feelings of a Christian who desires to be closer to Christ. Although it mainly focuses on her personal experiences, readers may find it a helpful addition to daily reading the Word of God.Thanks to The Book Club Network Inc. for furnishing this book in exchange for a review based on the reader’s honest opinion.