Customer Reviews

NIV Encouragement Bible

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have been a Christian for many years, and have been through my share of Bibles. I found that some of the study and application Bibles had commentary that was so upbeat that it was almost insensitive to those who are wounded. Often the Bible is difficult for people to read when they are struggling with emotional issues. Sometimes the words seem so harsh, or the promises so lofty, that hurting Christians feel alienated. I found this Bible by searching for a Bible that might minister to me in my depression. Instead of perky little notes in the margins, I needed realistic, heartfelt encouragement.

Joni and the Draveckys edited this NIV Bible. Joni and Dave have both been through major physical and emotional suffering. They have the experience that gives them credibility. I am willing to read and ponder what they say, because I know they have been in the depths. I know that if they can be encouraged, I can too. If they can make sense out of their tragedies, I can too. There are encouragement notes and quotes on every single page of this Bible! There are also entire sections devoted to questions that suffering people wrestle with - and Scripture references to offer some answers.

But this Bible does not offer simple answers to difficult questions. It offers hope tempered with experience of tragedy. It offers just what the wounded, tired soul needs. THANK YOU Joni, Dave, and all of the rest who contributed to this beautiful gift. I will cherish it for years and years.

There is also a burgundy leather edition of this Bible with gold edges available. It's a lovely trasure. The print is the perfect size, and the notes on the sides are illustrated with peaceful black and white nature scenes.

I give this Bible my highest recommendation. It could not have been produced at a better time for me! It would be the perfect give for a friend or family member who is going through a difficult time. It would also be great for a Christian who has the gift of encouraging others. It will arm you with powerful words, stories, and verses for friends who suffer. You will not regret this purchase!

I've been a Christian for a long time and have lived with a chronic illness and disability for several years. I'm always looking for inspirational and encouraging reading to help me through this difficult journey. Now finally, an application Bible to "encourage!" With Joni Eareckson Tada and Dave & Jan Dravecky editing and writing "Notes of Encouragement" & "Tips to Encourage," I found alot of emotional support. Coming from three who have, themselves, endured alot of physical and emotional suffering, this NIV Bible is a wonderful source of encouragement for those who are hurting. The Word of God always remains the Word of God. The difference here are the personal little notes included by Joni, Dave, Jan and others. I found them to be honest, validating, compassionate and uplifting. Also included are several other sections. "Questions in the Valley", "...in the Desert," "...in the Oasis," and ...in the High Places" are the asked questions alot of us think about in our circumstances. They then direct us to related scriptures. "Light For My Path" are uplifting, "quick look" scriptures listed in the margins.
"Encouragement From The Classics" include writings from Augustine, C.S. Lewis, Charles H. Spurgeon, D.L. Moody, Teresa of Avila, Oswald Chambers, etc.

It's so difficult sometimes to find the motivation to even read the Bible when you're chronically ill, much less find one with commentary that is senstive to our needs. In the past, so many application Bibles have offered encouragement commentary in such an upbeat fashion, it was diminishing to those suffering. I know it made me feel frustrated and misunderstood. Sort of like
"pouring salt in an open wound" kinda thing. When you're hurting you need loving & understanding direction, not an overly zealous push. With the Encouragement Bible, I found a great deal of sensitive, uplifting notes, tips and stories. Who better to minister to those suffering, than those who endure suffering in their own lives. Thanks to Joni, Dave and Jan for realizing the great need for this application! Don't mistake that this is full of "pat answers," rather it is a breath of fresh air for the weary, discouraged soul. If you're looking for a study or application Bible to lift you up in your suffering, this is it. If you have a relative or friend who is suffering, this would make a nice gift for them. Or, if you're just looking to be a better encourager, this would be a good tool. It's well worth the purchase, and your heart will be comforted.

This Bible is fantastic. There really aren't words to describe the care that went into writing the Words of Encouragement, Tips, and Topics section. If you are hurting, or know someone is hurting either emotionally or physically, this Bible is a must have!

Bought this Bible as a result of finding out about Joni and her special ministry to the disabled. As a disabled woman, I find myself touched by this Bible beyond words. There are many insights contained in various selections that enhance my faith and my attitude toward life and my disability has become more positive. Thank you Joni and all others who helped with this very special Bible.

This bible has great side notes along Scripture for those who suffer from depression, suffering through an illness, dealing with a relationship fall out or even those just going through a difficult time in life. By the time I finished with this bible, the binding was coming undone! I passed it along to a family member who was needing some encouragement as well. It is a good investment.

I am so happy to have this copy of the Bible.
I received promptly and worth the money.
Thank you.

This is such a pretty blue Bible, and some of the notes are very good, and some are not that helpful. But it's definitely worth getting.