Biblical Minimalism Book Review & Giveaway

About the book:

For years, my family and I struggled with overloaded schedules, overwhelming debt, and being far too enslaved to our 4-bedroom, 3 bath home and excess physical possessions. The things we thought we "owned", really owned us, and living in bondage to them rendered us physically ill, mentally exhausted, and existing from day to day in an underlying state of misery. Through a sobering wake-up call, God made it clear that life-changes must be made, and what followed was a minimizing journey that has led us to sell our home, let go of about 90% of our physical possessions, and eliminate 100% of our debt. This book will appeal to anyone who has a desire to live a more minimal, Biblical-aligned life; anyone who is exhausted from over-indulgence in consumerism; anyone who would like to downsize and reduce the number of their physical possessions; and anyone who needs to read of living proof of a modern-day family who is currently walking this path.Minimalism is becoming increasingly popular as people tire of being bound to their possessions and obligations. Many long for a simpler life, but oftentimes do not know how to find it or even where to begin. As we walked our own minimizing journey, I often longed for a minimalism book that was written from an exclusively Christian viewpoint, and I found that there are few such books available. My family and I wanted to be sure that what we were doing was not merely following after a "movement", but that it fully aligned with God's Word and how Jesus lived His life on earth. As my attempts to find a book continually came up short, I turned directly to God's Word and in-depth personal study. The result of that whole-hearted searching is the book, "Biblical Minimalism." It blazes the trail on the subject of Scripture-based minimalism and meets a growing need.

My thoughts:

Since this is the first book I've read about minimalism, I wasn't sure what to expect, but oh, I am so glad I read it! Cheryl Smith's writing is very down-to-earth and relatable. I appreciated the way in which Mrs. Smith gave suggestions on how to live minimally God’s way, and then gave practical tips on how to do that in everyday life. God doesn't want us tightly holding onto possessions. After all, we can't take anything with us when we die. From her experiences, the reader observes that this is something that can be done. We really don't need as much stuff to live as we think we do. I also liked the way in which she showed that a person can live minimally in more than one area of their life. Biblical minimalism is not just confined to physical things. Houses, phones, cars, and excess items that we keep just because, are a few examples. Minimalism extends into other areas of our life, like friends, obligations, etc. I just also have to mention how happy I was to see that the author used the King James Version almost exclusively. There was only one time I can remember reading a verse from a different version. This excellent book was an encouragement to me, and I think it'll be a help to any Christian who reads it. 

*I received this book from the author, and happily provided my review.*

About the author: 

Cheryl Smith is the author of the book “Biblical Minimalism,” the story of her family’s journey from a life of abundance to a more abundant life. She is the author of the blogs Biblical Minimalism, where she writes about minimalism from a Biblical perspective, and Homespun Devotions, where she writes devotionals and conducts “Inner Views.” She loves to spend time with her husband and son in the mountains, sing and play Bluegrass music, and write.

To support Mrs. Smith and purchase her book, click here. 

Giveaway: 

**Giveaway is closed and the winner has been selected.**

Mrs. Smith is kindly giving away one copy of her book, Biblical Minimalism. To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment. The giveaway will end on July 9th.

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."    ~ John 10:10