SPIRITUAL SOUL TRAIN RIDE

A Christian devotional, specifically aimed at a female readership.

Carpenter’s (Come Go with Me, 2017) definitively personal approach sets this book apart from others in its genre. Many devotionals are highly didactic or dependent upon the stories and thoughts of others, but each entry in this work speaks directly to readers themselves. For instance, in one entry, the author writes, “Please come with me for just a moment. Just stop whatever you are doing and drop those busy hands to your side.” Few devotionals narrow the divide between writer and reader to such an extent. Throughout, Carpenter speaks from her own worldview, telling of how she awakens before dawn, does chores, works with horses on her farm, and studies Scripture. However, this sense of familiarity may be as off-putting to some readers as it is endearing to others; the book’s ideal audience would be one of energetic, positive, and self-assured women, ready for like-minded Christian messages. For each day, the author offers a particular lesson, or simply a dominant thought. Entries are organized by monthly topics, such as “Memorable Christian Leaders” (February), “Women of the Bible” (August), “Jesus’ Miracles” (September), and “Not-So-Famous but Extraordinary Women” (November). It’s not unusual for Carpenter to reference the larger culture, mentioning chef Julia Child or basketball coach Jimmy Valvano, for example, with as much ease as she references Scripture. Rounding out each day’s message and lesson is a brief Bible quotation and an accompanying prayer, written by Sherry Shaw. Overall, this book is endearing and heartfelt. However, readers who are unsure of their faith or looking for deeply spiritualist resources may want to look elsewhere.

Lightweight spiritual encouragement for confident Christian women.