Emmanuel

Is Christ welcome in your world? Is there room in your heart for him? In Emmanuel, Ruth Chou Simons shares an invitation to prepare him room at Christmas and always.

With over 230 pages, this book truly takes you on a journey. The book is divided into 4 weeks: (1) Our posture, (2) God’s promise, (3) our response, and (4) our Messiah.

God Shapes Our Hearts

From the start, I was surprised at how this book tackles real emotions. Worry, loneliness, stress, and jealousy are relatable experiences — and Simons shares how God can shape our hearts. While the devotional content is at the center of this book, Simons shares select scripture and quotes throughout — framed by her beautiful art.

Simons’ art is showcased in vibrant color vivid detail. With red and orange florals, you will feel holiday joy and as you experience her work. The hardback cover is stunning, and has a coffee-table quality. 

King and Lord

Simons writes with a warm tone. She is friendly and encouraging. Her devotions are rich in the gospel. She reminds us that Jesus is a gift, and we are called to respond. “The fulfilled promise of the birth of Christ doesn’t just cause us to celebrate during the holiday season; it compels us to respond with our entire lives.”

Ponder, praise, and prayer sections round out the devotional aspect of this book. It can be used for family devotions, and would make a great, personal gift to give to a friend or loved one. Towards the end, Simons focuses on the fact that Jesus is King and Lord. She asks what competes with our allegiance to him, and I was left wanting to dedicate my days to him. Not out of fear or guilt, but because of joy. Let every heart prepare him room!

I received a media copy of Emmanuel and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.