What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days - 52 Encouraging Truths to Hold On To

About the Book:

In this uplifting book, Holley Gerth invites readers to sit down with her to be filled with the strength, peace, and joy that come from God's promises to us. Each of the 52 devotions based on the Psalms will help weary women remember that God is good and we're all in this together. Whether it's a bad hair day or a broken heart, Holley offers hope and encouragement to get us through whatever life brings.

Women need that kind of encouragement because we all have hard days--days that make us want to give up, retreat inside ourselves, and drown our sorrows in a pint of ice cream. And while we may crave all sorts of things to ease the pain we feel in our hearts, what we really need is truth. We need to be confident in God's character and his promises. We need to remember--and celebrate--who he made us to be. And we need exactly the kind of encouragement Holley Gerth loves to offer.

About the Author:

Holley Gerth is a bestselling writer, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women through her popular blog and books like You're Already Amazing, You're Made for a God-Sized Dream, Opening the Door to Your God-Sized Dream, and You're Going to Be Okay. She's also cofounder of (in)courage and a partner with DaySpring. Holley lives with her husband, Mark, in the South.

Learn more at www.holleygerth.com.

My Review:

Holley Gerth is known for her encouraging and helpful words. She uplifts us with scripture and the soothing words of the Father especially in her latest, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days. In this small, little book she offers 52 encouraging truths to bring any woman to her knees before the Father---to help us, love us, and to inspire us to keep on keepin' on. Built on scripture and encouragement, each truth also has a small place to journal a thing or two to help us out with all our "down" times.

We tend to run to a pint of ice cream for our sanity when we should run to God. He alone is the only salve we should apply to our wounds. My favorite truth was number 27 "God Doesn't Need Conditions in Your Life to Be Right. This entry was so on target for me and my family in the season we are in at this moment. Sometimes we make the mistake of thinking that if this was just a certain way or if we could just do this right then God would gives us what we so desperately need. When are we going to realize that "He" is what we so desperately need?

That is what this little book of encouragement is for, it is to remind us of the love that our Father has for us. We as women get so caught up in the things, ideas, people, and situations around us that we need to remember to take out time for ourselves too.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.

"We all have days that make us want to pull the covers back over our heads and eat a dozen cupcakes." -- Holley Gerth

Yup. Been there, done that. A dozen times. How about you?

Life is tough. It's full of rough patches. Times when we feel we just can't move on.

Our heart needs encouragement during those gut-wrenching journeys. What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days by Holley Gerth does exactly that.

This little book is full of 52 gold nuggets to help us hold on. You can read one a day or one a week.

For an extra boost, read the entire book in one evening!

Each truth starts with verses from the book of Psalms and then a story that we can all relate to, applying it to our lives. She ends with a spot to write "what my heart is saying to You" and "what my heart is hearing from You." I personally love this style of writing as it's easy to understand and it sinks in. Awesome.

I found when I had a tough day the reading was exactly what I needed to hear. Love it when God does that.

This is a book you will read over and over again!

Put away those cupcakes and pull out this little treasure of 52 gold nuggets!

Your heart will grow stronger.

**Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.**

Holley Gerth has become a sweet favorite of mine. I've been blessed to review all of her books and now this newest gem. When it arrived, I took it out of the box and smiled. This is absolutely cheerfully cute! This little hardback edition is pocket sized. Perfect! It would be impossible to pick up this book and not instantly feel better.

For me this is much more than a devotional. Sure, you could use it as such. Read it daily for inspiration. Set aside one evening a week to enjoy a sweet concoction of Psalms and Holley's encouraging words. I will most likely keep it on my desk for moments I need to just take a step back and breathe. It too would make a great gift!!

I've shared about the packaging. Now, for what's inside. Who doesn't need a dose of Psalms when the day is looking haggard? One of the devotionals is entitled, "God is Bigger Than Your Problems". The Psalm that Holley shares is: "The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth." Psalm 97:5 Next, Holley shares a personal story. It's followed with a section of, "What My Heart Is Saying To You", and then, "What My Heart Is Hearing From You".

There are many topics. Each are sure to touch you in one way or another. A dose of cheerful joy. A life lesson. Thoughts to ponder throughout the day. Holley's words are soothing balm for the heart. They lift instantly and encourage the reader to fix their eyes upon Jesus and soak in His Word. This is what I love about Holley. She places the spotlight on Jesus. She shares from the heart. Her words flow easily and her stories are personal and meant to connect with the reader's heart.

I've had the pleasure of reading, "You're Already Amazing", "You're Going To Be Okay" and "You're Made for a God-Sized Dream". Check out my reviews. Every time I pick up a book penned by Holley I learn more about myself and I grow closer to the Lord.

This book is a gift from Revell for sharing my review with you.

When I saw this book had 52 devotionals I thought, “Oh one for each week of the year.” Well when I started reading it was more like 3 or 4 a day! They were like potato chips, I couldn’t stop with just one!! I have been having many hard days since the death of my husband and all life’s “extra’s” to face alone. I truly found this book very encouraging.
Each devotional draws its encouragement from a scripture in Psalms. The Bible is the true source of all of our encouragement. The titles of every one of them spoke to my heart. They were worded perfectly to catch my attention. I found them to be exactly the thought or questions I might be consciously or unconsciously thinking about my situation. Holley’s stories and thoughts that followed helped me look outside of my “hard day” and focus on my loving Heavenly Father and His Word. I know sometimes when I have dealing with difficulties I tend to concentrate on the problem looming before and forget to give all my attention to the Lord. I found myself thinking, “Yes! I am not alone. God has this under control. I can make it with Him!
The devotionals are only 2 to 3 pages each. I appreciated this because when I am troubled I find myself having difficulty concentrating on things for a prolonged length of time. There is also a prayer at the end of the devotional and a place to write down how God spoke to you. This is special to me because then I can refer back again and again to His comfort and guidance. I also liked the contents at the front of the book. It made it easy to skim the titles and find just the one I needed at that moment. The book is the perfect size to fit in a purse, or backpack, and easily fits in your hand when you are reading. You will want to have one for you and several to give to friends who are struggling with “hard days”.
I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

I'll admit her winning smile and the illustration " Dream God Sized Dreams" (see photo below) helped me to decide on this potential review of Holley Gerth's called appropriately What Your Heart Needs For The Hard Days or 52 encouraging truths to hold on to!

There are of course countless devotionals on the market these days so what makes this one a little bit more special?
Let's first agree we all have good and bad days, the latter the kind where you would rather hide
somewhere preferably where no one can find you (including the dog, the cat or/and the kids!).

In this perfectly formatted (purse size) little gem, you will find 52 devotions (I like to think of these as home truths) each one interactive to reconnect with the Lord and find a measure of peace in this (too) busy life of ours. If you are anything like me, it is the little things (piling up) which gets me. Once they start, it has a snowball effect and disaster strikes inadvertently.

With chapters such as "God wants to lift you up when life lets you down" and "God wants to know how are you, really?" Holley reminds us of what a treasure we are in His eyes and that we are not alone. Using Psalms as references she introduces us to restful thoughts about what truly matters to us and to Him. I like to hear that we are not alone when our heart is heavy!

Of course like praying, devotions are a personal experience but this one never felt like preaching
(one of my pet peeves) and I enjoyed reading it at leisure.

Give it a try Folks and let me know what you think!

5 Stars!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from BAKER PUBLISHING. as part of the it's promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

What Your Heart Needs For The Hard Days by Holley Gerth is a comforting devotional book for women. The book includes 52 devotionals, one for each week of the year. Each of the 52 devotions begin with a NIV Bible verse, then a personal story from Holley, and words of encouragement. She takes a hard look at her most difficult days, and rewrites them through a heart filter based on Jesus. Her beautiful writing style is conversational, as she shares her story and then encourages the reader to write down her own story. Journal prompts begins with "What My Heart Is Saying to You...." and end with "What My Heart Is Hearing From You." After 52 weeks or 52 days of journaling your heart, you will discover a heart makeover!

Some of the Devotions Include:

** God Wants to Lift You Up When Life Lets You Down
** God Is Thinking About You Today
** God Will Give You Courage Not Condemnation
** God Won't Let You Fall
** God Doesn't Want You To Try So Hard

The book assumes the reader is having a hard day (as the title suggests) and is written with the purpose to lift burdens and give hope. It would make a terrific book for a friend in need. Add to a care package with a box of herbal tea and give as a gift to someone you love.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

It looks like a book. It feels like a book. Open it up and What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days becomes a companion. Each entry, based on the psalms, is like a conversation with a trusted friend over coffee. I found myself leaning in closely as Holley Gerth ties real-life situations with the truth we need to hear. With compassion and insight her words pour encouragement and wisdom into tender hearts. Words that comfort and inspire. Words that challenge. More than that, this devotional is a useful tool that will drive a tunnel through the hard rock of adversity as well as lay the unshakable foundation that will forever hold you up. By the time you've turned the last page, you will look up and notice your heavenly Father seated at your table together where he’s been speaking to you all along.

What I love about this book is its versatility. It is organized in such a way that it can be used in different ways, at different times, with different people. It can actually be read quickly in a single sitting if you like to get an overview before digging deeper. You can start at the beginning, dive in randomly, or pick and choose a spot that best fills the need in your heart. Conveniently divided into 52 concise entries, it easily fits into daily or weekly devotions.

Each message opens with a scripture quote followed by a heart to heart with Holley. It wraps up with “What my Heart is Saying To You” prayer prompt leaving room to add your own words. Then closes with a blank space to record “What My Heart is Hearing from You” as you reflect and listen for what God is saying to you. What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days also offers a refreshing way to get to know the psalms. In addition to the lead verse, Holley sets up a reading plan at the end of every entry that will guide you through the entire book of Psalms.

Sure enough, her words will lift the veil off the truths that get masked during those hard times that have us stumbling in the dark through dangerous landmines of lies planted by the enemy to trip us up. Behind the curtain of pain and doubts, she reveals unmistakably vivid reminders that include:

You are forgiven.
You are not alone.
God is the good shepherd taking care of your needs.
He will never reject you.
He gives you the power to trample the enemy.
He is bigger than the mountain you’re facing.
He will make things right and turn everything into enough.

Beyond these assurances, you may catch a few surprises. Unexpected topics like the hidden gift of trouble and value of laughter and tears. Insights you may never have imagined such as how having a burden gets confused with being a burden; that it makes a difference to know the difference between getting hurt and being harmed. Would you believe God is interested in updating our wardrobe? Were you aware of the paradox that joy and anxiety are related in our brain and that we can take both our gratitude and aching emptiness to God in prayer? Can you guess what happens when you stop trying so hard, trust more, and hand over a chance to meet your needs to others? No worries, Holley's got it covered.

The best thing about What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is the truths Holley shares are not confined to tough times. They are powerful, valid, and uplifting every day of the year. It's like a daily dose of vitamin alpha-omega that heals and repairs as well as strengthen, vitalize, and calm. It's the stuff that pumps our hearts with peace, love, joy and hope as we continue this journey we call life. As Holley put it so well, "No matter what page your story is on right now, this is not the end. With God there is only one ending - and it's actually the beginning."

I'm delighted to be included in the Revell Blog Tour for What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days. They graciously sent me a copy of the devotional in exchange for this unbiased review.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is my favorite Holley Gerth book so far. It's a beautiful little book, colorful, eye-catching, well-designed, and I thought it would just be a perfect gift to give a friend. I didn't want to mark up the copy I had so it would still look new and I could give it away. Alas, I ended up loving it too much and I simply can't give away this copy. Besides, I wanted to underline and highlight too much of what she had to say. So, I'll just have to buy another one for gifting to others.

Each devotional spoke to me. It seemed to move eloquently and movingly beyond the typical "fluff" of most devotionals while still touching the heart. She encourages without being simplistic. She ministers by teaching from God's Word, not glossing over it or just tacking on a Scripture verse at the end. Her stories are engaging and always link directly to the truth she shares from God's Word.

The book includes 52 devotionals, which you could read once a week to last all year or once a day to last about two months. Each entry includes a brief Scripture verse, a devotional thought, a section called "What My Heart is Saying to You" with a few lines of a prayer that she shares with blank lines for you to finish the prayer yourself and then "What My Heart is Hearing From You" where you can make notes from your quiet time.

This is a lovely devotional for any woman at any time in her life. For those experiencing hard days, it will bless all the more. You may want to get a copy for yourself and then maybe some more to give away.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

If you read and enjoyed Holley's latest book You're Going To Be Okay then I think you'd really like this follow-up devotional. It is filled with 52 different devotions that can be used as a daily pick me up or a weekly boost just when you need it most.

Holley's wit and wisdom shine through in this little book. She opens with this little gem in her classic style of upbeat realism.

"We all have hard days. The kind that make us want to pull the covers back over our heads, move to Hawaii, or eat a dozen cupcakes. Deep inside we know those aren't the best options for our lives or our thighs. So what's a girl to do?"

Did I just hear you shout AMEN? I know I did. Holley just has a way of putting into words exactly what we are all thinking and feeling. Then she comes along and sprinkles wonderful words of Scripture over the top of the situation and allows the Word to speak healing and hope over each of us.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days takes us straight to the book of Psalms. Each of the sections start with a verse and then a short portion filled with stories meant to encourage your daily walk with Christ. It is followed up with a section that is entitiled What My Heart Is Saying To You. In this part Holley begins a prayer and then adds a prompt for you to finish the thought on your own. There is a small blank area that you can write out your prayer if you wish. Each day's reading ends with a section that is entitled What My Heart Is Hearing From You. This part gives a suggested portion from the Psalms for further reading (usually a couple of chapters). It also has a small blank section that you can add personal thoughts.

If you are looking for a gift for a sweet friend or even just a little treat for yourself this would be the ideal thing. What could be better than Holley's writing and God's Holy Word mixed together?!!

"In vain you rise early
and stay up late,
toiling for food to eat --
for he grants sleep to those he loves."
-Psalm 127:2

I read these words as I was laying in bed late, going over something important I needed to go over. So I'm flipping through "What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days" by Holley Gerth because I thought I could work in some of the verses she used in these devotionals.

image via the store
And God calls out to my heart. My weary, overbooked heart. I heard Him telling me that my list could wait and I needed to give myself grace for the day-to-day stuff that just can't all get checked off my to-do list. There are so many hours in the day and I am just one person, so there's only so much I can do. The rest will have to wait and I need to be okay with that waiting.

I love hearing God talk to me and I was so thankful He spoke to me using Gerth's devotional. It's been a treasured little book for the...week I've had it. I've read through it and used some of her anecdotes when I needed to write some hard cards - a cousin had a miscarriage, a friend's wife passed away, my dad has been ill. Sometimes I don't have the words but this book helped me find verses that I would have been scouring for hours to find.

Gerth is just so relatable in her struggles and her life that she shares. This little yellow book with red polka dot binding is not a replacement for the Word of God but it uses the Word to really speak to me in places I overlook in my life, like rest.

I'm so thankful that I have gotten to read this devotional and it will be sitting on my nightstand for a long time. I imagine it years from now, dog-eared, well-loved, and much appreciated.

Disclaimer: I received this book in order to write an honest review. Others may not have the same opinions as I have.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is a 52-part devotional by author Holley Gerth. (On the back cover, this is recommended as a companion to Holley's book, You're Going to Be Okay, which I have not read.)

Each entry in What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is inspired by a portion from the Psalms. The verse(s) are followed up with a short story/analogy to help illustrate the point. Each of the 52 devotionals closes out with the start of a prayer (and lines for you to write in your words to finish it) and another lined section to write down the response that you feel is being given to you. As seems to be true with any devotional-style book, some entries may hit you more than others, depending on your stage/place in life. Even so, I feel like everyone can appreciate each devotional.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is a relatively compact book (6.1 x 4.3 x 1 inches), and it would be easy to toss in a purse to take with you if you are on-the-go. I feel like the compact size is great for travel, but personally I prefer to have a larger surface area if I am going to be writing in a book. It is just more comfortable to write on a larger surface, in my opinion.

If you are looking for a devotional to help encourage you through the hard days (or even the easy ones), I'd suggest considering this What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days.

FTC Declaration: The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book or advanced reading copy through a book review bloggers program. This does not change the fact that I will give my honest opinion in my reviews.

I have so enjoyed every single book or devotional I have read by Holley Gerth. The woman is just flat out encouraging. Every word she writes sinks deep into your heart, infusing a heart with exactly what is needed.

And this is because the woman shares truth – God’s truth in every word she pens.

photo-170I recently received her newest devotional, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days to review. It could not have come at a more opportune time in my life. Honestly, any time will be the opportune time for this little book.

Each short devotional, and there are 52 of them, is based on a Psalm and is written to remind you that God is good all the time and we are all in this fight together. Let’s be honest, difficulties can cause us to forget who God is and even who we are. We question. We doubt.

Through these devotionals, I found myself infused with hope and strength. I was reminded to praise God. On the days which are difficult. And on the days which were joyful. I found myself reminded to praise God every. single. day.

“I will praise the Lord at all times.
I will constantly speak his praises.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!
(Psalm 34: 1 & 8, NLT)

I you are finding your heart has a need, this book will remind you of the promises of God. You will find truths, God’s truths, to hold onto in the hard days.

**Yes, I was given a free copy to review. This review was a pleasure to offer and is given honestly. Bless yourself with a copy of this book!

I absolutely love Holley Gerth and her heart for women!
And I am absolutely head-over-heels for her latest devotional, What Your Heart Needs For The Hard Days.
Don’t let the size fool ya! This DEVO may be small in size, but it’s BIG in heart!
I enjoyed the devotionals so much, this is one of my favorite devotional books I’ve come across in awhile. These 52 devotionals delve into the book of Psalms….a book well known for it’s heart-healing abilities.
I looked forward each day to reading even just the title of the devotional, these really are truths that, when internalized, have the power to change everything! God is thinking about you today, God doesn’t expect you to be “fine”, God is Someone you can rely on- are just a few examples.
Holley shares stories from the heart in each devotional and then draws the connection for readers to apply the truths of Scripture to their own hearts. “What My Heart Is Saying To You” is a prayer prompt found at the end of each devotional that gently guides readers into a time of pouring their hearts to God.
“What My Heart Is Hearing From You” is something I loved and thought was really unique (you don’t see this in most devotional or prayer books). It’s a chance for the readers to be still and listen for what God is speaking to them. There is even a space for readers to write out their thoughts on the page.
As a bonus there are reading prompts to take your experience even further by reading through the Psalms with selections each day.
This really is the perfect little DEVO to heal your heart!

I love this beautiful devotional by Holley Gerth! If the title doesn’t immediately appeal to you, the red polka-dotted coffee cup absolutely will! In fact, someone please tell me I can buy the cup and saucer somewhere?!! Holley Gerth does an excellent job providing 52 devotions based on the Psalms to help you get through the difficult days we all encounter.

I loved so many of the devotions, but a few appealed specifically to me. Number 32, “God Will Ease Your Anxiety,” speaks to an area I struggle with frequently. Whether it’s a truly serious situation or a worry I have blown out of proportion in my mind, anxiety can rule my day. Holley begins this chapter with Psalms 94:19, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” She goes on to point out, according to this verse, not only will God calm our anxiety, he will give us joy. I love this! I would love to trade my anxious moments for joy! I think I will.

I love so many of the devotions including, “God Gives You Permission to Laugh,” and “God Knows Your Calendar.” I have enjoyed reading through them. It may sound silly, but I often do “hair dryer devotions.” It takes some time to dry my big head of hair in the morning, and I often read a devotion while I am sweating underneath the heat of my dryer. This book is perfect for hair dryer devotions! Each are a few pages, super encouraging, and a great way to start your day.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher, Revell, in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated and all opinions are my own.

I LOVE THIS BOOK!

All you have to do is LOOK at it and it will cheer you up!

Yes I am a sucker for a cute little book that has a coffee cup on the cover... but that is only a part of this book's charm!

Just wait til you get a look inside! Holley Gerth is a genius! She has put together a beautiful, endearing, uplifting book and anyone - absolutely anyone can find something inside that will apply to their life!

Yes it is set up so that you can read and study one concept each week for 52 weeks of the year but I don't think many of you will want to stop reading once you get started!

It is such a comfort to find good, Biblical advice, especially in this crazy, upside down world we live in.

And I absolutely love the little sections provided at the end of each chapter for notes, the bible verses and the wonderful prompts. Not only does Holley delve deep into what the Bible tells us Jesus wants for us - she draws us in and interacts with us while doing it.

Bravo Holley!

I am compelled to go out and find more of Holley's wonderful books and I hope you will feel the same!

Why oh why haven't I seen these fantastic little books before!

This is a book that everyone needs to have handy for those everyday challenges that make us feel worn out and defeated - along with their personal Bible of course.

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.

Thank You and God Bless!

As a woman, I know that there are days harder than others. And sometimes we need to be reminded that we matter and that God cares deeply for us. Holley Gerth has a way of bringing into writing the truth about ourselves and about God. This time, she has gleaned precious wisdom from the book of Psalms which will remind us of God’s goodness. This little book is a companion of Holley’s book You’re Going to Be Okay. However, the book can easily be use without it and bring healing in your heart.

This book can be used as a weekly devotional or during the span of 52 days. You can also opted to read one devotions every once in a while in order to slowly advance in it and be touched by God – going back on the devotion and ponder on the words of Scripture. Slowly but surely as you progress in this book, read the Scripture associated to the devotion, take the time to respond and personalize your prayer you will go through the book of Psalms.

One particular devotion has touched me more than the other ones so far – it was about how God wants to exchange the pain for joy. When going through a painful experience, it is important to remember that it takes time to feel joy again. It’s a process. Still we are not alone in the midst of the pain. God is there – always.

This book could be a great little gift to someone you know who is going through a difficult time or simply to bless someone in their stocking at Christmas

"We all have days that make us want to pull the covers back over our heads and eat a dozen cupcakes." -- Holley Gerth

Yup. Been there, done that. A dozen times. How about you?

Life is tough. It's full of rough patches. Times when we feel we just can't move on.

Our heart needs encouragement during those gut-wrenching journeys. What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days by Holley Gerth does exactly that.

This little book is full of 52 gold nuggets to help us hold on. You can read one a day or one a week.

For an extra boost, read the entire book in one evening!

Each truth starts with verses from the book of Psalms and then a story that we can all relate to, applying it to our lives. She ends with a spot to write "what my heart is saying to You" and "what my heart is hearing from You." I personally love this style of writing as it's easy to understand and it sinks in. Awesome.

I found when I had a tough day the reading was exactly what I needed to hear. Love it when God does that.

This is a book you will read over and over again!

Put away those cupcakes and pull out this little treasure of 52 gold nuggets!

Your heart will grow stronger.

**Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.**

The one book in the Bible I always turn to whenever I need a little comfort is the book of Psalms so I was excited to find a book of devotions based on the book. In today's world it seems there are plenty of hard days, whether you're a stay at home mother or work outside the home. From the bad news that one is bombarded with daily on the evening news or trying to juggle the never ending list that I always seem to need to do , there are plenty of hard days to muddle thru. What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days not only encourages, but also speaks to the heart providing a needed boost while also reminding that we are never alone! First I want to say I love the size, I would consider it a pocket book, one that will easily slip into a purse or briefcase. The bright cheerful colors used on the cover captures the eye making me want to explore what is inside. Each devotion starts with a scripture from the book of Psalms, then an devotion which touches on different issues that are easy to relate to, It wraps up with a prayer and a place for writing the users own thoughts, something that I find very useful. I love that there is a table of contents so that I can skip to the devotion that I feel I might need to read for the day. Whether you have time to do this as a daily or weekly devotional is up to you, but if you need encouragement and uplifting your going to find it within the pages of this cute little book.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.

Got this cute little devotional in the mail one day I was having a rough day. I showed it to my husband and said, 'Hey, this is exactly what I need today isn't it?' I read the back, 'We all have days that make us want to pull the covers over our heads and eat a dozen cupcakes.' Yup.

It has 52 devotionals based on the Psalms and each are about 2 or 3 pages long, just enough to get some encouragement for the day and start things off on a positive note. It also has about 3 suggested Psalms to read to go along with the devotional so if you read each three by the end of the book you would have read all 150 Psalms. It's perfect for keeping by your bed and with its small size I've kept it in my purse and read it while waiting for appointments.

Each chapter is a quick reminder of a truth from the Psalms like, 'God calls you his own', 'God's ways are best for you' and 'God is preparing you.' We can get in such a tizzy when things are going wrong. We can get so upset by our circumstances and our mind can have our feelings going crazy. We can change our feelings by remembering the truth about the things going on in our life-that God is with us and will give us courage and protects us and is our defender. When we focus on the truth of God's word then things around us don't seem as stressful and unmanageable.

I read Holley's "You Are Going to be Okay" and really appreciated her style of writing. I feel like she's a good friend and we are talking over a cup of chai. This devotional is the companion book and it's been a great way to remember each day that God is with me and I can make it through whatever comes my way.

Thank you to Revell for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

A person can't help but feel a smile spread across their face the minute they pick up this little book. Perfectly sized to slip in your purse - it is like a cup of encouragement on those rainy days when your heart is heavy.

Women wear many hats and are under tremendous pressure - this is not to say that men do not face the pressures of todays world - but simply that women feel the emotional pain of this pressure. There is always something to live up to, some disappointment to overcome, some task yet unfulfilled, some dream left unlived, some pain to get past, some hurt to forgive, and the list goes on and on.

52 to devotionals, 52 weeks of the year, 52 subjects that are close to women's hearts around the world. Finally, 52 invitations to meet the Father, experience His love, know His peace and hear His voice. 52 moments alone, 52 times in prayer. 52 weeks to contemplate and put to heart the devotion for the week.

Holly Gerth is known for her compassionate heart and encouraging words - here it is on best display. Easily carried in a purse or in the glove box, or stashed on your night stand - this is a book that you do not want to miss out on.

I will be purchasing these little jewels as gifts for the women in my life - a cup of joy in their deserts.

Thanks to the publisher Revell for this complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.” –Psalm 150:6

Holley Gerth has compiled biblical scriptures with words of encouragement to lift your spirits in all situations whether distressed or happy. Each of the fifty-two encouraging chapters includes spaces for entering your special prayer relating to the reading and recording that your heart hears from God. The scriptures Ms. Gerth use are verses from the Book of Psalms such as “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalms 147:3).

The section to creating your own personal prayer in itself can lift your spirits while strengthening a close relationship with God or be the start of beginning a new walk in learning how God loves his children.

My favorite encouragement from this book is number 8: God Will Give You Everything You Need with Psalm 23:1-3 as the referencing verse because I personally believe in that statement and can witness His loving kindness in giving every day of my life.

This is an excellent book when using on a daily or weekly basis as a devotional guide or in a study group sharing with others. I recommend to all who wish daily inspiration and love creating personal prayers.

I received this book free from Revell Books in exchange for an honest opinion in accordance with the Federal Commission guidelines.

What Your Heart Needs - that really is the part of the title you need to focus on. Not : for the Hard Days - because honestly on the good days my heart needs Holly's words. On the days I am up early, had some time with the Lord, I still need the wisdom she throws onto pages in these devotions. Oh my!

Confession time: I did not think this devotion book would really be relevant RIGHT now - I am not going through Hard Days - (this week). But I was SOOOO wrong. No, hard days did not hit. But as I read through devotions daily, every time I read Holley's words it was the truth I needed to hear that day! Her devotions are short, but will grab your attention quickly and then cut to the chase with the point. After each devotion there is a prayer and a spot to journal some notes.

Seriously, this sweet little book is amazing! I have LOVED it!! I am a fan of Holly's writing, I love to read her words, she draws me in and reveals truth to my heart! So grab this book when you get a chance - for you AND a friend!! I am going to drop a copy in the mail this week, for a friend who is going through hard days, and I cannot wait to hear how she enjoys it!!

I highly recommend this book, or any other by Holley Gerth!!

NOTE : I was offered a copy of What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days, in exchange for an honest review!!

"What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days" arrived in the midst of a difficult week. I knew it was coming... (the book, not the tough times) but I didn't know how much I would need it until it arrived!

Through all of it, I slowly turned the pages of this little book and found hope... found peace... found again the Anchor that we cling to Who steadies our hearts and the One who beckons us to come and walk on the water. The truth, the stories, the encouragement and hope - I love all of these things that are packed into this little book of 52 meditations based on the book of Psalms. But what I love the most is the invitation at the end of each one, inviting the reader to pray.. and to listen. (And then, of course, to write down what you hear!)

I am a huge encourager of Listening Prayer. I believe one of the best ways to encounter God is to not just whisper off a list of requests, but to enter into a conversation with the Lord. I love how Holley makes it simple and paves the way for conversation on the days when it feels like it's just too much to know where to even start!

Because of the battles that unfolded in our life, I read this book in gulps and swallowed down every page quick-like in order to pass it on and share the Hope that is so beautifully held out here. However, I encourage you to read through it slowly if possible, and let it sink in deep!

It is a great companion book for "You're Going to Be Okay" which I am reading through now, slowly (and loving it, too!)

Holley Gerth writes like she’s sitting next to you at the table. I can say this with certainty because I’ve had the opportunity to sit next to and near Holley at a few meals. Her words in person echo the words of her books.

“What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days” is Holley’s newest devotional. With verses from Psalms as her foundation, this is the kind of book you can tuck away in your purse – especially if it’s as big as mine – for encouragement on the hard days. Specifically, there are 52 truths she wants you to hold on to. Each chapter has a title that describes the character of God, a passage from Psalms, a devotional that’s based in real life, and a few lines to pray and journal.

As I was reading different chapters recently, I underlined lines I wanted to remember, thought about my own hard days, and prayed for friends walking through their own darkness.

In the pages of “What Your Heart Needs of the Hard Days,” Holley shares about walking through infertility, being encouraged herself by the people in her life, living while waiting even when it hurts, and believing God is who he says he is. And when she does, she encourages others to keep living for and believing in the Creator of this world and its people, the One who delivers, redeems, accepts, hears our tears, gives joy, prepares, and protects.

This is a wonderful, encouraging devotional! With chapter titles like, "God Doesn't Expect You to be 'Fine'" and "God Is Bigger Than Your Problems," the author points out truths we all need to take to heart. Each devotional is a few pages long and quickly caught my attention with a story, either from someone else's life or her own. She talks about what we're feeling and thinking and how God feels about what we're going through and how He loves us and understands. She then has a prayer where she gets us started talking to God about what we're going through and we can continue the thought with space if we want to write it down. Then there are a few blank lines to write down what we're hearing from God. Finally, it ends with recommending 2 or 3 chapters in Psalms to read.

As I read through this, there were so many truths and reminders I needed to hear. Sometimes it was specifically something I was having a hard time with. The back of the book says it's the perfect companion to her book, "You're Going to Be Okay," which I also loved, but they can also be used separately. I can see myself rereading this and coming back to it again and again. I highly recommend it!

I received this book free from Revell in exchange for an honest review.

Holley Gerth has taken her loving, down-to-earth style and created a devotional. It includes "52 Encouraging Truths to Hold On To".

This is a lovely little hard cover book that has just a few short pages in each devotion and a space to write what the reader is feeling and what she is hearing from God. There is no pretense in this book -- life gets hard. Some of the titles include:

God Wants to Know - How are You Really?
God Notices When You Cry
God Knows Your Calendar
God Isn't Done With Your Story Yet
God Has Words for Your heart to Hold On To

This book can be read in order or can be approached on an 'as needed' basis. The stories may make you laugh or cry, and they will all leave you feeling loved and cared for by your Heavenly Father, no matter what is going on in your life at the moment.

This is a wonderful way for me to take my new friend Holley with me wherever I go! I love sharing a cup of coffee with her every morning as she lifts my spirits and turns my heart evermore toward God.

If you would like to join her Facebook readers group, you can join her 'book club of the heart' as we discuss these devotions a few times per week! Check it out here. https://www.facebook.com/HolleyGerthPage

What Your Heart Needs for the Hards Days by Holley Gerth, is devotional with 52 entries using verses from the Psalms. It can be used as a daily or weekly devotional. It is also ideal for pulling out when you’re faced with a hard day, such as when life lets you down, when you’re filled with fear or anxiety, when you feel like God has forgotten you, or even if your tired for hustle and bustle of life. Each entry includes a brief illustration to read, provides a truth using verses from the Psalms and has a section for you to reflect and pray on what you’ve just read.

Overall Thoughts

What Your Heart Needs for the Hards Days is a great resource to turn to when life seems to be beating you down. So, often in times of stress and heartache we only hear the negative and try to solve problems on our own. We often lose sight of the truth as we are bombarded by arrows of lies. Holley has written a great resource that reads as if you’re meeting with a friend over coffee--a friend who sweetly reminds you whom you can turn to and encourages you that you are not alone. No matter your day you are sure to gleam some wisdom from this devotional.

Overall, this is a refreshing book that helps the reader to refocus their thinking on God’s truth, especially during the hard times.

********************
The book for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

Written by: Holley Gerth
Published by: Revell

I like inspirational books, those that can help us to look up in hard times, that is why I chose to read and review this book.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days shares 52 messages to read and ponder.

Who the book is for:

Those who are facing some less-than-perfect times.

What I liked:

I really like the small size of this book, as well as the padded cover.

I like the fact that the messages in this book are short enough to be read quickly and easily.

I like the fact that there is a Bible verse shared with each reading.

What I didn’t like:

I haven’t had a chance to read the whole book yet, but so far I have not found anything that I disliked in it.

My conclusion:

Overall, this is a decent read.

I give What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days 4 out of 5 stars.

I received this book free to review from Revell. The opinions expressed in this review are my true thoughts and feeling regarding this book. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Holley Gerth, best-selling author and co-founder of the website incourage offers 52 encouraging truths to hold on to in her new book, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days.

Reading these short chapters based on the Psalms is like sitting down with her over a cup of coffee and listening to her encouraging words fill up my heart. 

If you've enjoyed her popular blog, this book is like having a year’s worth of Holley’s encouraging blog posts at your fingertips. She has a unique voice to her writing that inspires me that God is always thinking of me with love and good plans for my life, even when I'm in the midst of challenging situations and difficult circumstances.

Just as a trusted friend would, she reminds me of God’s promises on the days that discourage my spirits and make me want to give up on what God has whispered to my heart. 

These beautiful promises from God, along with Holley's inspired words, fill the pages.

~When I feel like my life is at a standstill, God is preparing me.

~When I feel like I’m all alone, God is someone I can rely on.

~When I feel like I don't have anything to offer, God can use me to help others.

~When I feel like I’m not enough, God says I’m a delight not a disappointment.

~When I wish things had turned out differently, God’s ways are best for me.

I think What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is the perfect complement for your morning coffee to lift your heart above the daily grind. 

What Your Heart Needs for Hard Days: 52 Encouraging Truths to Hold On To, by Holley Gerth, is a great short book that has 52 devotions based on the Psalms. These were all quick reads, and they were the perfect length to read in the mornings before going to work. Even if you don't think you need to hear encouragement, this book gives you great topics to return to when you are having a difficult time in your life.

In addition to having great content, the book was really cute. It's a small size book, so it was the perfect size to put in my purse if I wanted to read it at lunch at work. I think this is a perfect gift for a family member or friend during this holiday season!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, as part of their Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I love the book design of the red coffee cup with white polka dots and the padded cover. It’s a small book and I like that I can carry it in my purse. This cute little book with powerful words would make a lovely gift for any gal, at any place in her walk with the Lord.
Holley writes in a way that you feel like you are hanging out with a girlfriend in a café, sipping our favorite beverage. Her writing is refreshing and comforting. I feel closer to God reading her words.

This little book is a devotional with 52 chapters. The chapters are a few pages with Psalms chapter suggestions at the end for further reading. She also begins a prayer at the end of each chapter for you to finish and a place to write what you are hearing from God.

I could relate to many of the chapters. Her words are encouraging, sweet, simple, yet thought provoking.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I was drawn to this book simply for it's title. And of course the cute polka dot cup on the cover didn't hurt either. I have a matching one I made a hot cup of tea in, then opened up for a read.

I began a little skeptically. There are books out there that promise us nuggets of wisdom, cliched slogans and are packed with all kinds of positive mantras to recite to build oneself up and I really didn't need another of those. Because what I really wanted was something to help me on the days when I didn't want to read the slogans, or recite some positive message to myself in the mirror. Those are the really hard days.

Right from the opening page though, I knew this book was going to be different and speak differently to my heart. Gerth's opening sentence is a hook to every woman I know. "She stands at the edge of the room and stares at the floor. All around her conversations flow and laughter pours out, yet she feels alone." I have been there and I think most women I know have sometimes felt this way, that everyone else has their friends and is having a great time. Everyone but me while I stand awkwardly at the edge of the room, on the edge of the school grounds or the church entrance way before service.

Gerth can identify with our insecurities, our fears, our temptations and our grief. She describes it. She reaches in and says, Yes - you, I know how that feels. She knows the hard days. But she doesn't leave it there. She goes on to show us another way, and the great thing is, it isn't a "pull yourself up by the bootstraps" way. It's reassuring and gentle, but strong and can empower us with courage and strength to not only get through the hard days, but live them and live them well.

How does she do this? She writes 52 chapters, walking us through the Bible's book of psalms, and replaces darkness with truth and light, that is both believable and dependable. Whether Christian or not, I would wager this is a book appealing to any woman who has ever had a hard day and needs to hear a friendly voice. The chapter titles tempt us in with such gems as "God Wants to Update your Wardrobe," God does not expect you to be "Fine," and "God calls you His Own."

Gerth addresses difficult topics head on and manages to deliver a fresh perspective without being contrived. She speaks frankly and honestly about some of her own hard days and how she was able to come to a different understanding about pain, sadness and grief. In one chapter she speaks of grief being the positive process that helps us move forward over time. In another how God is present during our darkness, that we are in the shadow of His wing. I found Gerth able to give me an opportunity to shift the way I perceived the pain and hard days, that though they were real and I could give credence to them, I could also begin to recognise and understand something else in them. It was also a refreshing way to see how the psalms, though written thousands of years ago are as appropriate today as they were then as each chapter is linked to part of a psalm and can be applied to modern day topics and circumstances. It is the very essence of our humanness that they speak to, and Gerth illustrates this beautifully throughout the book.

The book can be enjoyed as a devotional, or can be dipped in to selecting a chapter whose title speaks to you. Most chapters are 2 to 3 pages long, and as this is a pocket sized book it is great to pack along with you and read when you have a few minutes to spare. I read it daily first thing in the morning and I found myself set up well for the day. There is a space at the end of each chapter to record "what my heart is saying" and "what my heart is hearing" I sometimes wished I had a little more space to write here, but as this is a pocket sized book, if treating as a devotional study it might be a good idea to have a separate place to record notes. I liked that it was a smaller book though as could take it with me wherever I went. When I've gone through exceptionally hard times in my life, having this book with me would have been like carrying a hug in my pocket. It's tag line is "52 encouraging truths to hold on to" and I found that this is exactly what it delivered.

In short, if you've ever found yourself having a hard day, read it! If you've never had a bad day read it anyway!

I loved this devotional. These past few weeks Holly's word have been an encouragement and comfort during some trials I have faced. The Psalms (which is the foundation of this book) are so full of encouragement, hope, situations we can relate to as David expresses his deepest feelings. And Holly, well, she is just amazing at putting the words down on paper. As I read, I felt uplifted as though Holly were speaking to me.

I have read other books by Holly, and she is very gifted. Each devotional begins with a verse, followed by words of encouragement by Holly and maybe a story we can relate to as women. She ends the devotional with a prayer and a few suggested chapters in the Psalms to be read.
It takes you through the whole book of Psalms, with 52 devotionals that could be read daily or weekly based on your personal preference. This devotional is a reminder that whatever we are going through - we are not alone. Others have been through it before us, there will be those who come after us, and God is with us through it all!

What Your Heart Needs for Hard Days was provided by Revell in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

If you have lost your strength or are struggling with life and need encouragement, Holley Gerth's book "What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days" offers 52 truths to hold onto that will lift you up when you are feeling down. You can read them sequentially or you can use the index to choose a particular need. You can use on a daily basis, a weekly basis or as needed.

Gerth speaks as someone who has walked through trying times and knows exactly what to say to those who are hurting or searching for comfort. Gerth's book is great for a personal devotional time or as a gift for someone who is dealing with hard days. It is a perfect help for what to say to someone who is hurting that will let them know you care.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, as part of their Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I had heard lots of amazing things about this author but this was my first time reading a book of hers so I didn't really know what to expect!
I absolutely loved this book! The words on these pages spoke volumes to my heart, in fact there were moments when it felt like the author had read my mind and knew exactly how I was feeling at that moment in time! This may be a little book but the truths it holds make a huge impact! I just can't say enough good things about this book, it's a book every woman should read! I love that at the end of each chapter the author gives you the beginning of a prayer pertaining specifically to the message of that chapter which is super cool but what is even more awesome is that there is a space for you to customize the devotion to whatever your heart needs and is saying that day! And below that they give you a place to write down what God is saying to your heart!
This was an amazing book that I know I will read again many times in the future!
I highly recommend this book to every woman.

I was honored to receive a review copy of this amazing book from Revell publishers in exchange for my honest review!

This book is What Your Heart Needs For The Hard Days by Holley Gerth. I LOVE the cover on this book, it has a cute red teacup with white polka dots on it. I also love how little devotional books are made. They usually have a suede cover or like this one, it has a type of padded cover. I just love how books feel to the touch. (Yes I am weird, I know.) I enjoy reading this little book because, I find it would be perfect for little bible studies every morning. There are 52 chapters in this book and at the end of each chapter is a prayer you can pray. What is interesting about these little prayers, at the end of them there are lines where you can add onto the prayer. After the prayer there is a scripture you can read in your bible going over what the chapter talked about. Gerth wrote these devotionals a little bit different then the other devotional books I have read in the past. She has written little stories that go with each chapter. It makes it easy to understand what I am supposed to be getting out of the scripture that is for that specific chapter. I find this book to be perfect to leave out on your coffee table or your bedside table to read daily.

Sometimes our daily life seems hard, and at times the word “hard” doesn’t even begin to describe our reality does it? Perhaps, when going through those days, you aren’t sure where to turn in your Bible for a word to help calm your heart, remind you that God is right there or even that tomorrow is a new day.
Author Kelly Gerth shares 52 truths that are meant to encourage women either when life hits a rocky moment or the season goes on for days in which case the little book can be used as a devotional. Each entry begins with a short story, followed by a prayer and a space for readers to write what they hear the Lord saying to them. The author points to passages of Scripture to abide in and gain strength, perspective, healing or whatever need the heart yearns for.
We all look for someone to understand us as women, especially when we are struggling. Here is a book to give to someone or keep for yourself to grab when your heart needs some encouragement to go on. Abide in the Word that is shared, take time away from the noise of life to hear the Father speak and watch for Him to touch you where you are.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days by Holley Gerth is a little, padded, hardcover devotional book that has all of the encouragement that a girl could need. Easy to read (and easy to read quickly!), each devotion is about 2-3 pages long, remember, this is a small book! And each one is packed full of funny anecdotes that will warm your heart while feeding your spirit.
God Won't Let You Fall
God Notices When You Cry
God Wants to Update Your Wardrobe
Those are just a few of the topics that you can glean from. Each devotion also has a question or two at the end for you to answer, this makes this book personal, no two people will experience the same things or have the same answers. This is between you and God.
This would make a lovely little gift for a friend who is struggling, a mom who doesn't have time for herself, or someone who feels alone in the world.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is a wonderful devotional filled with 52 devotions based on the Psalms that will help you remember that God is good. That He is always there for you no matter what you have been through and no matter how many hard days you are having.

Holley gives us truths from God’s word to help heal our weary hearts, she has broken this book up into five chapters which are titled:

• God Wants to Lift You Up When Life Lets You Down
• God Will Give You Courage, Not Condemnation
• God Will Never Reject You
• God is Bigger Than Your Problems
• God Is Not Tired of You

Just looking at these titles makes my heart skip a beat. I feel this book was written for me. If you are searching for a great devotional that will pick you up, show you that God loves you no matter what you have been through or are going through, then What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is the book for you.

Thank you the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book for my honest review.

Drawing on the Psalms, Gerth leads us through 52 short devotions covering a variety of hard day topics. Some chapter titles include 'God Isn't Holding Anything Against You', 'God Will Give You Everything You Need', and 'God Has a Great Place for You Today'. Each devotion includes a verse, a Psalm to read, a leading prayer, and space to record God's responses. With a number like '52' it is easy to assume the readings need to be done weekly, but because they are so short (2-3 pages) I found it quite easy, and enjoyable to read one a day.

The words inside are very typical Gerth. It is just not the devotional I can see myself easily turning too in place of others. Still, a great size for the nightstand and a great Gerth primer. I can't help but give it 4 stars. I recommend it to those who love Gerth and could use a little heart love on the hard days.

I received a copy of this book direct from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
See more of this review and others at Sunrise Avenue

Due to a mix-up in the sending out of my copy of this book I only received this book a couple days ago and haven't gotten very far in it. I could have just rushed and finished it but I kinda wanted to savor it and read it like it was intended to be read. So this will be a rather short review based on the few sections I've read!
I have loved all of Holley's books that I've read and this daily devotional is no different. Each entry is short without being too short and it filled with a well-written truth. The author did a great job of packing a lot of power into a couple pages to read each day. And at the end of each devotional there is the start of a prayer for you to finish and a place to write the response God gives. This is a fantastic little book that I highly recommend to everyone who's looking for a daily devotional!

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Full of encouragement and empathy. Holley delivers another wonderful source of hope and blessing with this devotional. "What Your Hearts Needs for the Hard Days" is a gift. Each devotion contains a verse from the Psalms, a story of identification, words of hope from the heart, and a place to speak to God and record His response to you. The Psalms are a great place to go when you are hurting. I am thankful that Holley chose the Psalms to headline each chapter of her devotional. She uses David as an example of one who cried out to God, especially during hard times. "I think God sees extraordinary beauty in our ugly cry. That kind of crying we do when the heart is laid bare and open. It's what we do when we stop trying so hard to be strong. It's our way of saying, 'This is too much for me.' It's—dare I say it—an act of worship because we finally let ourselves be humans who need God" (pg. 95). This is a fantastic little book...full of grace and truth.

Sometimes the best surprises come in small packages, and that is the case with this heartwarming and inspiring devotional from Holley Gerth. What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is a day by day collection of stories, examples and corresponding verses to address most any trial someone is going through. Reading each of the lessons provides hope and encouragement to us when we are struggling or just feeling a little down.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is easy to read, easy to keep with you, and will make you feel better about what you are going through. Ms. Gerth does an excellent job of reminding us that God has everything under control, and we need not worry.

You can read more about the book and join Holley on her blog at http://holleygerth.com/heart-needs-hard-days or her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HolleyGerthPage.

~this book was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for my review

In What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days, Holley Gerth compiles fifty-two encouraging, straightforward readings stemming from the book of Psalms. Each reading, only four to five pages in length, begins with a verse from a psalm, addresses a relevant, challenging issue, speaks to God’s ever-present love and character, and at the end, leaves space for personal prayer. At one point or another, I think everyone needs a bit of encouragement in the midst of life’s challenges, and Gerth offers it easily and fittingly. Compact and easy to read, yet always thought-provoking, Gerth’s What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days would work well for women looking for a daily or weekly devotional. I recommend it.

Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

I wanted to savor this book and really stop and think about so many points Ms. Gerth made! While I couldn’t this time around since I needed to finish it fast for review purposes, I definitely plan to re-read this book and let it speak to my heart all over again. Holley has a way of being so genuine and real that this book comes across as all encouragement and motivation for me, never as preachy. She seems to know how I think and feel and the right things to say to get me to open up better in my prayers. I not only plan on re-reading this, I plan to buy a few as gifts. It’s a smaller book, but the impact is large and it’s a perfect gift-giving book to touch the heart of a friend. It’s a wonderful devotional that gets right to the point in short but hard-hitting chapters or devotions.

I loved this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.

I received this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you Revell!

Some days a girl just needs a spiritual pick-me-up. The author has taken thoughts from the Psalms and written quick, encouraging thoughts to brighten any woman's day. Each devotional starts with a verse from Psalms. The author then shares a relating thought. It ends with a prayer that can be added to, some space for writing, and some more verses from Psalms for further reading.

I loved the look and feel of this small book. It's perfect for a quick moment with God. The devotionals are thought provoking, but encouraging. I liked how each one could be tailored to the time I have with the further reading in Psalms. This would make a perfect gift or stocking stuffer.

I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.

"What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days" by Holley Gerth is 52 day devotional. Each day has a little scripture, a devotional section, and a little section for your prayers and notes. I have to admit when I requested this book I was not sure why I did. Now I am very glad since it is a devotional not a book I did not do a complete reading of it since it is a devotional and I like to take my time with them. However I did read a good chunk of it and was very impressed. This little devotional could not come at a better time as my family is going through some hard days right now. I was really encouraged and blessed by this little devotional already. I highly recommend it for anyone to keep on hand and read no matter if times are going good for you right now.

I was given this book by Revell Publishing a division of Baker Publishing Group and was not required to give a positive review.

I read a number of the devotionals in the book and they were so inspirational, I’m trying to read 1 a week on every Monday. I can’t wait to read the rest of the book.

The few devotionals I read were really well written and I managed to read quite a few before I closed the book and decided to portion the book out to one chapter a day.

Having read what I did, I now want to read the other books by the same author. I feel that she hits the spots that every woman struggles with in her life.

I would definitely recommend this book even though I only read 3 chapters. What I did read was very encouraging. If you’re looking for a devotional, be sure to try this one out.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group”.

This is the book you need to set aside for your Secret Pal or BFF. Short enough to soothe a tired soul in just a couple of minutes, each devotion would give me just enough "atta girl" to keep me going. I'd keep this book on my bathroom counter or maybe on my desk in order to catch the message each morning. It would also be a great little resource for those of you who write a note to your child or spouse (in a lunchbox or text message) each day. If you struggle with finding a quiet moment in your day to spend with God, consider stashing this book in your car to read in the parking lot before walking into work. It's small enough to fit in a handbag yet the message is big enough to get you through a tough day. The book itself is very cute; wrap it with a tulle bow and you've got a ready-made gift! I received this book to review. The opinions shared here are 100% mine.

There are few things I love to do daily. In this short list is read. Book lined shelves grace each room in our home. The overflow books live in the garage; still accessible, waiting to be pulled down again. Old books, new books. Living authors and those who have gone ahead. Making time to read is vital for me. Words inspire. They instruct. Words shape my thoughts and imaginations. Often I am drawn to words written to encourage.

One author I count on for encouraging words is Holley Gerth. Holley is an encourager. She writes as if she is sitting across the table speaking words of comfort: "We're in this together".

When I received my copy of her latest book, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days, I grabbed my own red & white polka dot cup, filled it with coffee and dove in with great anticipation. I was not disappointed.

Holley has used portions of the Psalms to pen 52 unique, encouraging illustrations of 52 Truths. Each one points our hearts to God who loves us best. Every entry title begins with "God...". Each one ends with a personal prayer that Holley calls "What my heart is saying to You". She also has included a space for you to write a response which is called "What my heart is hearing from You".

Now mind you, lots of people write and say encouraging things. Or at least they mean for them to be encouraging. Sometimes the timing is off; especially on the hard days. That's what is so meaningful about Holley's writing; she is honest about hard days. You won't find her telling you to simply pray harder or keep a stiff upper lip. Holley is real with struggles to trust God, to find joy in tough circumstances. But her honesty doesn't point us to our circumstances; she points us to the Truth. Acknowledging the hard and embracing the Truth. What a beautiful combination.

I wasn't far into the book before I sighed aloud over what I read:

You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry. Psalm 10:17

I have felt afflicted. Haven't you? Holley writes: "When the day seems difficult, when you're weary, when you feel like a failure...God is encouraging you." She speaks honestly about many very real issues: depression, limiting beliefs about God, how we're prone to criticism of ourselves and others, and in each hard topic she points us to God's Word in the Psalms.

Such comfort.

Such encouragement.

I know sometimes it's hard to receive encouragement. Being in a hard place can be so dark a little bit of light is hard on the eyes (or ears). Holley makes the Light practical not preachy. In #32 God Will Ease Your Anxiety she explains the physiology of how our bodies respond to anxiety and joy. Not in a heady science way but simply the practical stuff. And she points us to God. "God doesn't take us from anxiety to calm. He can actually take us from anxiety to joy. How does he do that? Truth can switch the track in our minds. When we remember what God says, we change courses from thoughts that lead to anxiety to those that can instead lead to emotions like courage and even celebration." Practical. Encouraging.

Reading Holley's words I imagine hearing her warm, soft voice speaking them to me. She is an author who writes in her own voice. I had the privilege of hearing her speak encouraging words at She Speaks 2013. Holley is as sincere in person as she is in her writing.

Her latest project is available now. Get two copies. One for a friend and one for yourself.

It's what your heart needs for the hard days.

“What draws people to be friends is that they see the same truth. They share it.”
― C.S. Lewis

“What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days” by Holly Gerth is a great book with wonderful messages for life.

I like the Psalms because they give a message of hope and God’s love. This little book is a wonderful help to your prayer life. The messages in this book give one, especially one who is depressed or despondent about life, a new outlook. I think it is a good addition to your library.

I was sent a free print copy of this book by Revellbooks.com in return for my honest assessment of the book.
You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-dm, on Goodreads.com at https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1132602059.

Well the bonus for this little devotional book is that it is adorable on the outside and is a perfect book for gifting. What's even better though is that the inside is just as perfect. Some devotional books I have read in the past have been fluffy and trite. Not so with this one. This little book by Holley Gerth actually addressed real heartaches in real ways, and ultimately is pointing all women's hearts to God. This little treasure talks about rejection, loss, loneliness, fear, pain, you name it. It doesn't let you sit in your pain and become a victim, and it also doesn't try to minimize your pain and laugh it off.

There is a good little interactive part at the end of each devotional where you write your heart to God and write what you feel God is speaking to your heart. My only complaint is that there wasn't nearly enough room-only about three lines. This book needs to have more journal space, because I feel like that would really make it the ultimate devotional. It's so awesome that this author recognizes the need to sit still and hear from God and not just read books to fix our problems. Bravo, Holley Gerth.

I received this book from Revell Books to review.

I am a huge fan of Holley Gerth's books and I have to be honest that they are so visually appealing! I mean really, look at this book and tell me that you don't like it! It is cute, inviting and this latest book is the perfect size to carry with you wherever you go!

Now onto what is inside of this adorable book... Inside there are 52 devotionals to help us through those moments and those days when we are just having a hard day and just struggling to make it through. Each devotional is short and yet each one contains a lesson and encouragement that will fill you with hope and help pull you up out of that low point. I love that each devotional ends with space for the reader to write and really reflect on the reading and what the reader is hearing and thinking at that time.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days may be my favorite devotional release this year! Each day's reading includes a Bible verse, a story or commentary by Gerth, and follow up spaces to fill out what you want to ask God for and what you feel Him saying to you. I didn't utilize the writing space, but it helped me focus my thoughts following each devotion. I love the way Gerth writes! I felt like I was talking to an old friend each morning and night. I highly recommend What My Heart Needs for the Hard Days to anyone who often feels overwhelmed, anxious, or exhausted. It would also make a great gift book for a friend! I look forward to Gerth's next devotional book. (I received a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.)

Holley's heart is pored out like a warm cup of tea in this devotional. She is the real deal! like many others, I have sat with her with a cup of coffee in hand on a comfy couch and learned much from her wisdom. What Your heart Needs for the Hard Days is a devotional packed with the very same wisdom and truth Holley shares in person. But this jewel of a devotional is a bit more personal than Opening the Door to Your God-Sized Dream Devotional in that there are blank spaces for us to note our thoughts. That's right, at the end of each devotional (there are 52) are some blank lines for some real life heart to heart response. Each devotional is steeped and served in the Psalms. After reading a single devotional from Holley's heart, your heart will be deeply flavored with much calm for the Hard days.

This devotional is laced and liquored with no thing but truth and joy. I highly recommend it to you!

Please note: You’re invited to join Holley's face{book} club for this new devotional What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days: 52 Truths to Hold On To. It officially kicks off today but if you don’t have your book yet you can still join in! #bookclubforyourheart

This book is a balm for the soul! Once you open the pages it feels just like you are sitting across from a dear friend receiving life-giving encouragement that uplifts and points back to God. I love the way Holley Gerth writes just as I imagine she would talk in person. She brings life to her books and then it is as if she sees straight into your own heart. This book is 52 days worth of devotions, I can't wait for Holley to write one for 365 days. I can tell that this will quickly be a favorite and may well be read many times throughout the year!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Reads Blog Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

I've been spending lots of my quiet time in the Psalms these days, so I was delighted to crack open this book and find that each devotional was based on a Psalm. I love the way she describes the Psalms, "The book of Psalms is like a table covered with God's goodness." It's true, and He has set the table for me... and His goodness can satisfy, will satisfy, does satisfy.

And after a day of stuffing myself with unhealthy, unnecessary foods and reading these words in the introduction, "We need to find a way to quiet the hunger pains in our hearts." I knew that this was going to reach my heart. Holley gives us 52 encouraging truths...

God wants to lift you up when life lets you down
God says you're a delight, not a disappointment
God doesn't want you to try so hard
God is your protector
God will ease your anxiety
God's ways are best for you
God will use you to help others

and so many more that spoke to my heart before I even began reading the devotional. Each truth is paired with a verse from Psalms, along with a reading of 3 Psalms a day (or week, or however you choose to break it up).

We all have hard days and sometimes on the hard days, it is difficult to remember truth, to focus on truth. But a few days in the Psalms, along with these encouraging words that Holley shares with us, and your perspective can change, just like mine does! Psalms is my lifeline and this devotional book has added a strand of strength to that lifeline!

What Your Heart Needs is a clear affirmation to the insecurities, disappointments, whispered ramblings of the enemy’s lies as well as the never ending stream of busyness we find ourselves in daily. Holley addresses each of these and introduces us to the grace and truth we need to sustain us through those times.

I don’t know Holley on a personal level but sometimes when I read her words I wonder if she knows me. I’m sure I’m not the only one. She’s a woman that bares every beautiful part of her soul as she sends the message: I struggle just like you, but let’s talk truth.

I couldn't be more grateful to have yet another inspiring read from our friend, Holley Gerth.

This book is the perfect companion to Holley's book You're Going to Be Okay.

WHAT YOUR HEART NEEDS FOR THE HARD DAYS is sure to be a book that ministers to a lot of people on their sad days, down days, depressed days, and days when it's a struggle to just get out of bed. We all have those sorts of time--and some people struggle with it more than others.

If you or someone you know is going through a hard time or suffering from chronic depression, pick up this devotional for them. It reminds us that we aren't alone. That God knows how hard it is to live on this Earth. And it invites you to turn to God. Recommended. A must-have for Christian counselors and pastors.

Holley Gerth's new devotional is warm, encouraging and conversational. I couldn't help but feel inspired and uplifted, while going through this book.

Every time I read Holley's writing, it is like having a chat over coffee with a good friend. She is easy to relate to and seems to write exactly what women feel and think. Each devotional has an accompanying verse from the Psalms and a small section at the end of each chapter, for women to journal their thoughts.

I love the design and appearance of this devotional - perfect for gift giving! This book was so encouraging - I highly recommend that you get one for yourself, and extras to give away!

I have read one other book by Holley and she really is inspirational. I wish she was my friend in real life, I feel like I would always feel empowered and meaningful. This book is great for 52 lessons on God's love and understanding along with personal stories. She makes things easy to relate to and understand and adds a blank space for you to write in each time. There are verses obviously but I really like the ones she picks out and how she explains things. If you need some inspiration and a reminder that God loves you and made you for a reason, this book is great!!

"I received this book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review."

I didn't want to review this, necessarily, because it's more like a devotional, and how do you review that? Therefore, I decided to spotlight it instead. This devotional has 52 entries, so you can read it once a week for a year, or daily for 52 days. Either way, this book will encourage and enlighten you.

Now, I did not read the whole thing cover to cover. I read one every day for a week, and then flipped through the rest, although I will continue to read one every day until I do get through all of them. But already, I have been so touched and encouraged by this devotional. Each short chapter is based on a Psalm, and although they may be short, they hold a lot of truth. Holley Gerth has a very unique writing that actually holds your interest. I'm not one for devotionals, but this one is very easy to read, as if you were chatting with an old friend.

We all need encouragement and to hear God's voice in our daily lives. This book really is what your heart needs for the hard days.

Holley's writing has always been warm and inviting, making her books seem more like you are sitting down to chat with a good friend than anything else. This new book of devotions, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is no exception. Reading each of the 52 devotions you come to realize that Holley gets it. She's been in your shoes. She knows just how hard the hard days can be.

Each of the devotions begins with a few verses from Psalms (what better scriptures for the hard days....David sure had his share of those!), then shares a relatable scenario of someone in the midst of a difficult time and a gentle reminder that there is One who can help us through. Each devotion also includes a section called What My Heart Is Saying to You. In this section Holley begins a prayer and then leaves blank lines for the reader to add their own words of prayer. Finally, there is a section titled What My Heart Is Hearing from You that allows the reader to record insights they feel God is speaking to them.

While not an indepth devotional, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is a wonderful quick pick-me-up and possibly a good starting point for anyone looking to go deeper into scriptures. Holley's writings definitely left me smiling and turning my thoughts away from self and toward God and isn't that the point of devotionals? The book is simply and clearly written with a bright friendly cover and beautifully decorated pages and the best part is that its small size makes it perfect to tuck into your purse, backpack, or briefcase.

I highly recommend What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days to anyone who needs a bit of encouragement.

As a busy single mom, the days are hard to get through because I am just plain exhausted and daunted by my to-do list. This morning, I picked up Holly Gerth's new devotional and felt like she was sitting in my kitchen having coffee with me personally and pepping me up with encouraging words for the day to come. She writes like a friend, and her words are empathetic. More importantly, Holly Gerth takes her readers on a journey through the Psalms so they can connect more intimately with God and even write out their thoughts at the end of each devotional. After reading an entry like "God Will Ease Your Anxiety" or "God is Bigger than Your Problems," even a stressed-out single mom like me can tackle the day, knowing I'm not alone and God is right there with me!

Maybe your marriage is taking strain. Maybe the kids are giving you a run for your money. Maybe your car needs new tires and you just don’t have the cash. Perhaps you just received an unwanted diagnosis from your doctor … or maybe you’re just flat out burned out.

Maybe you feel like God has abandoned you, or given up on you altogether. Perhaps you’re wondering how you’ll ever make it through this dark season.

Whatever the case may be, we all have hard days. We all go through periods of time, sometimes even weeks or months when life is more challenging than usual, and we feel discouraged.

During times like these, Holley Gerth has exactly what you need.

In her brand new devotional book, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days, Holley uses the book of Psalms to draw encouragement and hope for the weary soul.

In a compact volume that is small enough for me to tuck inside my purse, Holley highlights 52 verses from various psalms, and uses them to speak important truths to the hearts of women.

While reading through the devotional, I started bookmarking certain entries that I wanted to quote from for the purposes of this review. Well, by the time I finished, almost half the book was marked! It’s that good.

What I appreciated most about this collection of devotions was just how insightful Holley is into the real-life struggles and challenges that women face. It’s clear that she has a wealth of experience in counseling, mentoring and discipling women, and as a result, she has just the right words to soothe and comfort the aching heart.

Holley uses many real-life examples in her writing, and I particularly appreciated the way she was so open and honest about her own battle with infertility, and the way it has affected and impacted her own spiritual life.

Holley understands from firsthand experience that “we always live with both blessings and brokenness. Challenges and victories. Sorrow and joy. They’re all mixed up together.” She has learned that “it’s often in the moments when we feel weakest and most vulnerable that God exerts his strength on our behalf.”

One of my favorite entries is the one on Psalm 90:12, which says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” In this section, Holley writes about those days on our calendar that have become life-changing, for one reason or another. Maybe it was the day of a significant loss, a dianosis, or a divorce.

Holley writes,

“When we think of those days, it changes the way we look at all the ones that are yet to come. They remind us that life is finite and fragile.

… That’s the hidden gift of trouble: it makes all that’s good and beautiful and true stand out like stars on a night sky. We learn to count our blessings and to make our days count.

… The people I know who have grasped this truth the most don’t live in fear. Instead they’re made courageous in a wild and rare way. They embrace life with both hands and yet at the same time hold it loosely. They overflow with joy and weep with abandon. They love deeply and yet they know how to let people go. They see those circles on the calendar as part of a much bigger circle — one that goes on for all eternity.”

In my opinion, this book would be a great blessing to all who read it — young or old, single or married. And guess what? The author is currently running a book club on Facebook for anyone who would like to join. All you have to do is “like” Holley Gerth’s Facebook page, and you’re in!

I received a free copy of this book from Revell Books in exchange for my honest review.

I really loved this book, and it ministered deeply to me (even though it wasn't a season of hard days!). Each devotion was bite-sized... not overwhelming, and it made it easy for me to read several at a time (when I wanted to). I love the fact that she's put journaling prompts and left space for me to write... though I didn't this time through, I will when I'm having hard days)!

I bought another copy to share with a friend who has faced a huge loss in her life, and has a season of hard days, and she's already expressed how much she's being touched by the book too! Great gift to give others!

I am really enjoying this book! It's a sweet little devotional that's making a big impact on in my life. Holley writes as though she's sending me a personal note of encouragement, like we're old friends. Each devotional opens with a psalm followed by a brief typical-every-day-life situation that makes me recognize right away that the truth she's sharing is meant for me. Each devotional closes with a lined space where I can write down a prayer and a reflection. It's short and sweet, but it packs a big punch of faith.

I've shared more about this book on my blog, http://jenniferslifebetween.com, please visit to read my full review.

Special thanks to Revell Reads for providing me with a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

What a fantastic gift book to encourage a friend or loved one. I loved this little gem of a book.
52 very encouraging devotionals for when you are feeling empty inside or if you're discouraged. There is a place at the end of each devotional to write your thoughts and there is great scripture in each daily devotional.
I plan to give this book as gifts to those I love.
I gave this book 5 stars. I highly recommend it.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Everyone has had(or will have) at least one hard day in their life; whether it is at school, work or at home, Jesus is always there to help guide you through it. When we are faced with tough times we sometimes forget that we're not alone. Don't let the size of this book fool you, though it is small there is plenty of encouragement to help you get through the day. This is a well written devotional. The book would make a great birthday(or anytime) gift.

*Disclaimer*
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own

I love it when God releases hope -- at just the right time -- in book form!

Diagnosis. Divorce. Death. These are some of reasons our hearts may take a detour from happiness. They may cripple our spirit and create a thirst for the sunshine. However, just when you feel like you can’t possibly endure anymore, that’s when hope enters the picture.

Hope was released in the form of a new devotional by Holley Gerth on September 2. What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days includes 52 encouragements, based on the books of Psalms, that may be read daily or weekly. Each devotion includes a verse(s) from Psalm, a touching illustration from Holley and space to record written personalized prayer, as well as what you hear from God.

As always, Holley has a way of speaking soft, Truth-bearing words that relate to every woman. She knows life contains hard days and reminds us that God is in control and we will be okay.

“We can wonder at how many blessings fill our lives while at the same time sensing an aching emptiness that comes from desires unfulfilled,” Holley writes. “God understands both. So what do we do? We embrace the paradox. We bring our sorrows as well as our joys to God.”

So if you find yourself or someone you love facing the hard days, I strongly recommend you to grab a copy of What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days. This books will remind you of God’s strength in our weakness; His ever-presence in our lives and His constant desire to meet our needs.

As an additional help, you may join Holley and other sisters in similar situations for Holley’s first Facebook Book Club. It’s free and you just need to like Holley’s Facebook Page to join! Book club starts with reading and posting Day 1 tomorrow. Also, if you love what you’re reading, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is a beautiful companion to read with Holley’s book You’re Going to Be Okay.

For more information about Holley and her encouraging books, visit holleygerth.com.

This is a great little devo that will speak to the heart of many women.
I love how Holley is almost telling a story each day. At the end of each brief thought is a place for you to respond. She has a prayer for you and then blank space where you can write down what is on your heart.
After that is a place where you write down what you feel God is speaking to you followed by scripture for you to read.
If you are looking for something quick but you still want to be in the word and have a meaningful encounter I believe this book does just that.

This is a fun, inspiring, go-to book for a quick pick me up that incorporates 1-1 time with God. Each "day" (there are 52 all together) has a scripture, encouraging story, and journal space. In addition, Holley will be hosting a Facebook club for this book! You can read about it on her blog at : http://holleygerth.com/heart-needs-hard-days and to join all you have to do is "like" her facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HolleyGerthPage.

Thank you to Revell Publishers for providing me a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.

The whimsical cover belies the contents. This little volume (4 x 6″) contains serious, hard-hitting, and engaging devotionals. You won’t want to read only one reading per week (the book contains 52 readings) because they are so interesting and meaningful.

Perfect for a suffering friend (even if it’s just stress), as a welcomed gift for anyone, or even to buy for oneself, this is quite the package! There are even a few lines after each reading on which you can write your own thoughts. All in all, this is very good.

God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at the break of day. ~ Psalm 46:5

"It's not about what's around you. It's about who is within you." ~Holley Gerth, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days

I was impressed by this book's compactness first off and it's graphic design- because polka dots...! It would be super convenient to slip this book into your bag and read on your lunch break or tuck into a gift basket for a new mom or a friend recovering from a surgery or anyone really - even if they look or act like they have it all together. There is something in here everyone needs to hear.

But aside from it's cuteness, the content is Spirit filled and God ordained speaking right to that deep down need. There are 52 different entries with a prayer at the end of each, a space for notes and a space for recording how you hear God speaking to that need with selected scripture verses from Psalms that carry you further into that entry's theme. Y'all don't fear the pen-- or pencil if you just want baby steps... because being able to look back at prayers God answers or encouragements He brings is invaluable. So I give you permission to write in this book if the spirit moves you. You're welcome.

The first devotion talked about God lifting my face up... Seriously I forget so often to look up... Some statistic I read long ago said if you wanted to hide something valuable from a thief, nobody ever looks up...! Just think of shopping in the grocery store- even prime product placement is at eye level... not above..! The second devotion dealt with releasing our control and resting in God's peace and comfort. Only He brings dawn and hope after the darkest night.

But you would be fed with the finest of wheat; with honey from the rock I would satisfy you. ~ Psalm 81:16

"It seems all of the conditions honey would normally require are irrelevant to God." ~ Holley Gerth

And on and on they went. Each devotion filling me with God's promises. Reminding me of his love. Telling me He hadn't forgotten me. Letting me know there was hope especially on the hard days. When we're out of our comfort zone. When we grieve. When we fear the future. When we can't forget the past. When we feel discouraged. When we just don't know what to do. HE does.

So if I had to give this book a grade it's definitely A++. It's a 125 out of 100 because it gets all the extra credit right. The only thing missing for me was a built in book mark...{ though I read through 2/3 of it in one sitting so I didn't realllly need said bookmark, but for anyone who finds those handy ribbons in the spine a convenient way to mark your place you may find yourself reaching for it...} But ribbons aside I'd urge you to go find a copy of this book. Or ask for one for Christmas... Or your birthday... Or buy 2 and give one to your mama or friend or sister or mail carrier...or teacher or...???...whoever crosses your path! You won't be disappointed- neither will they.

The power and beauty of God shown in the brokenness of me. Like the sun breaking through storm clouds after a thunderstorm...as the sun rays warm and lift up my heart that moment when I feel refreshed after recovering from a bout of serious fatigue. Poised on the precipice of a great miracle. I could actually feel the weight lifted off of my shoulders with each page I turned of the new Holley Gerth book "what your heart needs".

I haven't really been a Holley Gerth reader prior however, I have always been inspired by her messages on social media, her blog posts and, inspirational writing. So when I had the opportunity to review "what your heart needs" not only did I jump at it, I went back to her previous work. A special writer who as found a way to motivate using scripture as a foundation.

A straight forward writer, Holley shares so much of herself personally and her life generally. As I read through the book it felt as though she was sitting at my coffee table having a chat with me about my life. She writes her story, my story, but more importantly your story. As the book unravels I am sure you will find yourself among the pages. The book is so easily written and each days devotion flows into the next one seamlessly.

So take your cup of coffee and invite God into your heart with Holley`s help.
This is one book I would buy as a gift for all the women close to my heart.

I've read several books by Holley Gerth, and I must say, this one is my favorite. (And I didn't think I'd say that after the last 2 of hers I've read!) I love the style in which Holley writes, as if you're truly sitting down with a good friend, one who cares for your heart, and wants to help you see the good things God is doing.
Made up of 52 individual readings, this is a perfect book to pick up when you have just a few minutes and need a pick-me-up. With topics like "God is saying good things about you" and "God's ways are best for you", this book goes right to the heart of what so many women think and feel every day. I love that there is room for journaling, or at least jotting down some thoughts at the end of each section.
I highly recommend this book!

Have you ever felt like you’re not enough or that it’s not ok to cry or that what you’re doing or going through has no purpose? Are you in a difficult season, wondering how in the world you are going to make it through? Do you wonder if anyone really cares or understands the hard days? In her newest devotion book, Holley Gerth takes a walk through the book of Psalms where she tackles some of the difficult issues we face in devotions like, “God Doesn’t Want You to Try So Hard”, “God Notices When You Cry” and “God is Preparing You”. What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is perfect to read during your quiet time each morning or give to a friend who is going through hard days.

This book is a great, encouraging gift for friends who are facing difficult times.  In the middle of the storm, she can read this book, and God can minister to her in the hospital room with her spouse, in the car ride line waiting on her children, in the doctor's office while she awaits test results, or whatever struggle or season of life she is facing.
I personally attribute this book to helping me to feel once again alive and passionate about ministry to others. I look forward to reading this book over and over again. I feel in different seasons of my life God will use this book to speak to my heart in different ways. I appreciate Holley Gerth's vulnerability and honesty about life, pain, and faith.
Holley Gerth writes in a style that feels familiar and comforting, and I am thankful for her transparency and vulnerability in her writing.
My prayer is that God would use this book to encourage thousands upon thousands of women!

Holley provides well-chosen scriptures from the Psalms for readers to meditate on so that their hearts can receive the tender care they need during difficult days. I love the way Holley brings each scripture to life and helps us see the promises of God through them. She truly gives our hearts something to hold on to during hurtful and difficult times. I recommend this book be purchased as a gift for a hurting or grieving friend, but i also recommend every woman have it on her shelf or nightstand for the occasional bad day or season. I've recently been through a very trying season in my life, and Holley's words have helped me find hope and joy each morning as I meditate on God's promises and assurances for my heart. You'll find my full review of Holley's book here: http://www.offthebeatenpathministries.com/2014/09/because-everythings-not-going-to-be-okay.html

Holley Gerth has done it once again. A devotional that makes you feel as though you are sitting across from a trusted friend, someone who has been there and knows how to offer hope and encouragement. One of my favorite parts is that each day ends in a short prayer and has a spot where you can write a reflection about what God is teaching you. This is a devotional that you need to buy and have on hand as a help and a resource on those days that are difficult, frustrating and hard to handle!

Holley Gerth is like a blogging big sister.

I never had a sister, so I love to hear her nuggets of wisdom and gentle, nurturing encouragement. She gives me hope and points me in the right direction, just when I need it the most.

For once my life is not an urgent crisis, but that means all the other things that I haven't had time for start floating back up the top of my consciousness and create some hard days where I'm trying to process and plan, and easily become discouraged.

Her latest book "What your heart needs for the hard days" dispenses her usual easy access wisdom and has hit some pretty bittersweet spots of my life in the pages that I have read so far.

Holley's writing is friendly - as if you're chatting together in person, Scripture-based, deep and yet easy to read.

Many times I found myself with a few minutes to spare - often in line somewhere or before a meeting - and would read the writing for the day.

Each day is the perfect length and always encouraging.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days by Holley Gerth is an awesome devotional for hard days and normal days and happy days and sad days. It is good for all days and seasons. She speaks with such honesty and transparency, points the reader to scripture and then applies it to your heart. Her way with words is amazing and constantly reminds us that we are loved no matter what, all the time.
She speaks truth and she speaks from experience which makes it even more encouraging.

One of my favorite days is Day 5, Psalm 13:1-6 in which Holley addresses the paradox of our faith. God wants us no matter what state our heart is in. He loves us and wants to speak with us no matter the struggle, the joy, the sadness, the celebration, or the mundane. He truly wants to know how we are. He wants to be in communication with us and He always always desires to know our hearts.

The short chapters of this book are easy to read and packed full of great encouragement for any women facing a challenging time. You can easily grab it to read a chapter when you are having a hard day. Or if you are in a season of discouragement daily readings will help to lift your spirit and turn your heart to look to God. Each reading has a verse to meditate on, a prayer to prompt your own cries to God, and a space to record your reflections from the passage.

Holley is a wonderful encourager of women. You can clearly see her heart to strengthen women in God and lift them up for whatever they may be facing in their lives. Her words are definitely worth the read. Whether for you or someone close to you, you will find hope for the hard day

I absolutely love Holley Gerth's books, and her new book, What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days is wonderful! I love Holley Gerth's writing style. She's encouraging and warm. She makes you feel like she gets you! You don't have to read Holley Gerth's books in order. When I need a little pick me up or encouragement, I can flip open to any chapter and after a few paragraphs, my heart feels lighter.

Holly Gerth provides 52 devotionals drawing from Psalms to offer personal reflection, encouragement and spiritual growth in "What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days." The table of content leads the reader to the specific devotion needed for the moment. Each section includes a story tying in the verse and a prayer all meant to encourage a personal conversation with God.

Everyone gets hit by life. We all face pain. And Holley managed to write a devotional that makes you feel known in that pain. She writes from experience, sharing personal examples and as I read it felt like she was sitting across from me: encouraging me, loving me and given me of her time. I certainly felt less alone as I realized what I am feeling she's felt. When reading this devotional on a daily basis it will help you see the light. No, it will not fix your troubles, there will just be someone walking with you as you heal from your troubles.

I Love this book its my personal counseling and coping skills book. My Co-workers/Friends gave me this book (I had lost 2 siblings and others in 6 months of 2016,Not my Best Year Ever),this Book (WHAT YOUR HEART NEEDS For the Hard Days) & Family & Friends are there for me, My Heart will Heal in time. When I feel lonely or lost I read a few chapters and feel a little better than before.

I enjoy Holley Gerth's style of writing and am always encouraged by what she has to say. I have learned lots from all her books and blog posts. What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days will not disappoint. It is gift sized with a "padded" hard cover. What I love most is the table of contents - it's like a book version of Holley's blog posts, but in real book form! I like that I can read the table of contents and go straight to heart encouragement for that very concern. At the end is a prayer and journal prompt. I've only had the book 4 days and I've read way more than 4 devotionals :-D. **I did receive a copy of this book for free for the purpose of reviewing, but the opinions are all mine.**

I know you were just thinking about starting your Christmas shopping, so no need to search any further. I have been a fan of Holley Gerth's blog for years and this devotional does not disappoint. The number of devotionals here equals the number of weeks in a year, so there you have it. A little bit of Jesus in every single week!

Holley has the most tender heart for hurting people. And... we're all hurting. Even if we hide it behind lots of caffeine and tooth whiteners. She's got what you need to lay down the crazy and sigh really deep.

Okay, why are you still here? Go pick up a copy for every female you know. Christmas shopping done.

Sorry, I don't do wrapping paper. ;)

Even though I receive Holly's blog posts in my email inbox everyday, this being the first book of hers that I have read, I feel like I know her as a friend through how honest and real her writing is in this book. I appreciate these short daily devotionals, but love what each day's reading brings to my heart. Holly is raw, real, and points her readers to the ultimate source of comfort and giver of joy; Jesus Christ. This is a book I will keep close by from now on either for when I face hard days or when a friend needs some encouraging words while not minimizing the struggle of some hard days.

I love how every time I read her words it is Holley speaking directly to me. And I love how much I needed this book when it came. Her words give encouragement in the dark hours and even on the good days. She is a mother of words and this is a new "daughter" to be proud of.

This devotional book is outstanding. I have been battling severe depression for some time, and I am struggling to get the right meds. This devotional helps me to remember how God loves me and is faithful, even in the hard days.

I absolutely loved this book! It felt as if Holley Gerth had her arm around me and was giving encouraging advice from the Bible exactly when I needed it. These devotions will uplift you and give you the boost needed to keep moving forward in your daily life and walk with God.

For me, this devotional could not have come at a better time. I was blessed by every word. When you choose to read a book by Holley Gerth, you read her heart. She is genuine, gentle, and more than kind. Her gift of encouragement is like none other. If you are looking for a book to lift your soul, this is it!

Instantly you are enveloped by Holley's warm spirit and genuine words of comfort. You feel as though she is a treasured friend, doling out her words of wisdom while holding your hand, crying with you and understanding your heartache to the core. A must read!

I didn’t care for this book.
First, because the quotes come from the NIV Bible, which has many missing and incomplete scriptures, and because there are many other books out there just like this one.