Years ago during a challenging season of life, I decided to attend “Youniquely Woman,” an event that brought together three well-known authors and friends to encourage women in their faith, family, marriage, and home. It was somewhat amusing to me that it was billed as “finishing school,” but even in my early 40s, I understood no matter how old I was there was always room to grow. What a treasure to have Kay Arthur, Emilie Barnes, and Donna Otto living out Titus 2, investing in younger women by sharing their lives. They delivered actionable content, mixing humor and experience with biblical wisdom and practicality. A few examples of the lighter moments:
On marriage: What’s sexy about feet in your pajamas? How’s he gonna get to you?
On children: You can always pray you’re adopted because then it means your parents never really did it.
What a surprise to hear those things coming out of their mouths. Their candor see-sawed between giggle-inducing gift and wisened counsel. One memorable and special highlight? The trio’s birthday serenade from center stage. I’m not sure how they discovered it was my birthday, but as a girl who loves to celebrate the way I do, no other present could’ve been more perfect.
Over a decade later, a few lessons from each woman linger:
Donna Otto deliberately selected a black and white wardrobe, simplifying life and laundry but equally classy and timeless. She also was the first person to invite me to consider whether I was a “Here I am!” or “There you are!” person. Her challenge made me a better noticer of people by encouraging me to see people in the margins and to muster enough courage to be the one to reach out.
Emilie Barnes led a session on purse organization that had the audience rolling. Apparently the jungle of a woman’s bag is tamable. Emilie was the leader with whom I was most familiar going into the conference; her lovely book, An Invitation to Tea, had been an intricate part of our Mother-Daughter Valentine Tea Party tradition, a cherished, annual event hosted by my mother-in-love, my daughter, and me.
Kay Arthur’s surprising answer during an audience Q&A challenged me then and still challenges me today. When asked for book recommendations, she didn’t suggest one of her 100+ books or Bible studies (over 10 million in print), which would’ve been expected and certainly understandable. She could’ve taken advantage of the opportunity to sell a few more copies to the women in attendance, or she likewise could’ve supported her co-leaders and recommended some of their books.
She didn’t do either. Instead she recommended only one book: the Bible.
It wasn’t the answer we were looking for, but this is what she told us: “I wish I had spent more time studying Scripture.” An author who had written over a hundred books, pioneered inductive Bible study, spoken to hundreds of thousands, and who can recall Scripture faster than Google can find it, made much of God when given the opportunity to make much of herself.
Kay’s answer was convicting. If I had been her, I would have mentioned the Bible, of course, but I would have also drawn attention to a couple of my 100+ books.
I’m not hoisting her on a lofty pedestal because of her answer, and I’m not here to drop buckets of guilt or condemnation if you would’ve responded more like me. I’m also not handing out atta girls if your natural inclination is to cite the Bible as your number one book recommendation of all time.
Instead, I simply want to invite you to ask the same question I asked myself that day and ever since: Am I spending more time reading God’s Word or reading books about God’s Word? Do I value Scripture first and most? I want to encourage us to spend time with the Lord in His Word and never let reading other books crowd out time for reading Scripture.
Thankfully, it’s not an either/or proposition; we can read Scripture and great Christian literature. His Word is truth and life, and all these years later, Kay’s remark has inspired me to value God’s word more than anything else I read.
All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (CSB)
Fiona says
I always love reading 1 Peter. It’s packed full of wonderful words that make me excited for heaven, but it challenges me to live a life that is reverent and true to my faith in God. It’s practical and lifts my thoughts higher, at the same time.
Sounds like such a great talk you had from those three lovely ladies, thanks for sharing their comments! I don’t hear enough from godly older women. I do find it so much easier to read about the bible than to read the bible itself. And to rush my reading when I finally do sit down to read the bible. This year I started lighting a candle, trying to trick my brain to keep me sitting still. It works … when I remember it!
Robin Dance says
Fiona,
First, thank you for directing me to Peter’s words this morning; I accidentally started in 2 Peter (so good!) before reading in 1 Peter. To begin on such a strong note of hope and sureness of our salvation is something surely we all need to remember.
What a great thought about why you light a candle–to invite you to linger! I’ve often known believers to light one as they read, but it never occurred to me it was invitation to settle while you focus on the Light of life :).
Michele Morin says
This post is so convicting for this girl-with-the-nose-in-her-book. I want to come to the inspired Book with the same fervency that I dig into the books penned by human authors.
And for me, the book of Isaiah seems to be the place my eyes need to land most often.
Robin Dance says
Michele,
I think many of us benefit from a reminder to read THE Word :). You’re in good company.
Isaiah…there are words and thoughts in that book that blow me away. Familiar passages remind us of God’s intentionality from the beginning, a plan for those He loves for reconciliation and redemption, comfort…assurance…and acknowledgment that His ways are so different than ours. Thank you for pointing me in its direction this morning :).
Bev @ Walking Well With God says
Robin,
It’s so hard to pick just one book of the Bible. Psalm 140: 1-3 is my life verse and I’ve found much consolation in the Psalms, but Romans has helped me get over my guilt trips and feeling like I fall short in the Lord’s eyes. It boldly starts out with “Therefore, there is now NO condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) emphasis mine. What a reassurance that it is finished. No more anxiety, striving, perfectionism, not feeling like your enough needed. Christ did it all and there is no longer any condemnation. We are seen as perfect in our Abba Daddy’s eyes.
These other nuggets are just a few in Romans…
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[i] have been called according to his purpose.
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[k] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Sorry so long, but what glorious reassurance. Being in the Word every day is our lifeline….loved this post Robin!
Blessings,
Bev xo
Robin Dance says
Bev,
Consolation is an incredible concept, one human coming to another to minister healing, refuge, empathy, grace. Psalms overflows with the consolation of the Lord, indeed.
I love Romans, too; you’ll see it woven into my story in the book I’m writing–the two verses you cited are so dear to me, incredibly impactful.
You’re always such an encouragement, Bev :). xo
Ada Joe says
Thanks for sharing this Robin.
« Am I spending more time reading God’s Word or reading books about God’s Word? Do I value Scripture first and most?« – This spoke to me…God bless you…
Recently I have been feeling the Holy Spirit directing me to read the word direct from the Bible as a means to hearing God for a lot of answer I am seeking.
Over the years I have been reading a lot of devotionals and books online and offline and I Love ❤️ to read as much as I write. Over the past week and weekend watching and listening to Joel Osteen on You tube has been my anchor inspiration and this morning I watched one of His messages « You Have A Defender » twice and in those two times a Scripture (Psalms 46:10a) God spoke to me audibly in 2013 kept repeating itself and ringing in my ears as Joel said them « Be Still and Know That He is God » and with me not knowing where I am going to spend the night today nor if I will be able to continue in my current role nor what the doctor is about to interpret as the reason for my ailment that has kept me off work for over a week and seen me go through X-ray and a series of test over the past week not to mention that all my finances in the past 5 months has been spent in hospital admission ,tests, drugs and trying to stay alive and healthy and being in a place of waiting for a life partner and being home (I practically don’t have one as I have been moving and living with one person or the other or in one hotel or guest house or the other) alone in nigeria with my parents and only sibling on the other side of the world and continent…
I can hear God saying to me as I type «God is in the midst of her. She shall not fail » I am reminded that God is indeed in the midst of me amdist all these and I shall not fail. It’s a scripture in the Psalm I believe. This morning as I walked toward the busy stop to get a cab the hospital against my plan of returning to work today I could feel the peace ✌️ of God that passeth all understanding and I am comforted in my favourite scripture Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have you…plans of good and not of evil…to give you a future and a hope…
The Lord has good plans for me and for us all…It May be contrary to all we dream and desire and sometimes it may be painful and require death of even the very dream God gave us but if we stay in faith and hold on to His word then His good plans eventually prevails….
Robin Dance says
Ada Joe, it sounds like yours has been a difficult journey; I’m praying for you this morning–for complete healing, wisdom from your doctors, and celebrating God in your midst :).
Pearl Allard says
Recently, I listened to a podcast of a dear friend interviewing Donna Otto (https://www.everywisewomanbuilds.com/single-post/2018/06/05/Donna-Otto-Talks-About-How-Elisabeth-Elliot-Mentored-Her-Part-1) so Donna’s name stood out when I read your article! (Before that, I’d not heard of her.) I appreciated your takeaways and photo, Robin. How cool that they sang to you for your birthday!
My favorite book of the Bible is Hosea. It’s a heartbreaking story of a faithless people and their faithful God. Despite themselves, God refuses to quit loving His people on His terms. I desperately needed to know then (and continue to marvel now) that my sin does not disqualify me from His love.
Robin Dance says
Pearl,
I had never heard of Donna Otto until that conference, either. She’s a ball of fire :).
And, YES! That my sin doesn’t disqualify me from God’s love blows…me…away. Oh, the price He paid for us all….
xo
Karen says
I have so many favorites. Romans, Galations, Ephesians, Proverbs. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, Proverbs!!! But the one scripture that comes to my mind more that any other is 1Corinthians 2:9….”Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for them that love Him” I live in the country. Yesterday, my husband and I were looking outside our window into the back yard and a beautiful fawn frolicked out of the trees and scampered all around, bounding to and fro, jumping high, enjoying life. We couldn’t take our eyes off of it and watched it until it darted back into the woods. A few hours later we were outside and noticed a robin fly out of one of our little trees lining our driveway. We knew there must be a nest in there. And sure enough, my husband looked down into it and took a picture with his phone…two beautiful little blue eggs nestled into their home. I have lived in this area the majority of my life. I am 65 years old. I have seen countless baby deer and birds nests my whole life. And it always has the same affect… it feels like the first time. It’s like a rainbow. No matter how many I’ve seen, I still feel happy and hopeful when one appears. I see the heart of God in those things. It brings me joy and peace. God is so magnificent. And that scripture came to mind again. I can’t even begin to imagine what God has prepared for us.
Robin Dance says
How beautiful, Karen. Your words testifying to the newness of life found in nature was a lovely encouragement. The images of frolicking deer and robin/nest/eggs is such a strong visual. That you continue to see these things like the first is a dear thing…OH, that we ALL would have eyes to see! xo
Michelle says
Robin!!! I LOVE Donna Otto!! I started reading her books about 10 years ago and her advice on home and time management was a huge jumping off place for me when I was a new wife and a younger Mom. It literally shaped the home I have today. I also have moderate envy that you got to meet her! lol
Robin Dance says
Michelle,
Few people have heard of Donna when I’ve mentioned her, so I’m thrilled to hear you had already been “introduced.” 🙂 She commands the stage with her presence, and she loved sharing her message. There was so much wisdom up on that stage, and I know I was fortunate to be there. Isn’t it fantastic when you can look back and see the fingerprints of special influences in your life?
Penny says
Robin,
Thank-you so much for this refreshment…..to look to His word. I know I need to take the time to read more of it.
‘Thou Lord Knowest It’
Psalms 139.3
Thankful that we can Trust that God knows it all.
Have a blessed day all,
Penny
Robin Dance says
I act like I forget what I know… :). Thankfully, when backed into a corner, my instinct is to look UP :).
Missy says
I loved this Robin.
In my 20’s I had an incredible mentor who told me to pray and ask God for a love for His Word. I did this off and on for years. After about ten years, I realized how much I loved God’s Word, how much I needed it and wanted it everyday.
Now in my mid 60’s and working on Young Life College staff, I am passionate about sharing the importance of God’s Word, the TRUTH of it and as the standard to live by. I start my reading in the Word everyday by praying from Psalms 25 Guide me in Your Truth and teach me, for You are God, my hope in in you all day long”
Robin Dance says
Missy,
What a special blessing this mentor was; and now YOU are the one influencing young people! What a “paycheck” back to her, the kind with eternal value!! 🙂 xo
Kathy Cheek, Devotions from the Heart says
What motivated me to read my Bible more was teaching and preaching I heard years ago that I was pretty sure was not Biblical. I didn’t want to fall for something that wasn’t sound doctrine, and that meant, reading my Bible more so I would instantly recognize those who twist or change the intended message of Scripture.
My favorite books are the Psalms, Nehemiah, and John. I love to read the Psalms aloud and hear the beauty of the rich language.
Robin Dance says
Kathy,
That’s a cool example for what motivated you to dig into scripture. Something pricked your heart and you knew you needed to know TRUTH. I’ve never thought about reading the Psalms out loud to hear the language as you’ve described. Hmmm…I think I’ll try that :).
Elaine Pool says
Ok, so I have two favorite books – the book of James (I call it “where the rubber hits the road”) and the book of Job. LOVE me some Job. The back and forth between him and his “friends,” and then my all-time favorite part of the Bible: when God (first) lets him question GOD, then sits him down and tells him him that it’s God’s turn to ask the questions! And proceeds to ask Job, “where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?” Fabulous!
Robin Dance says
Elaine, well now…you’ve given me a new way to appreciate Job. Talk about a gentle rebuke…or better yet, attitude adjustment :). And yes…good ol’ James. His words are helpful in figuring out the working of our faith. It’s nice to have a book that’s so practical. Thanks for chiming in, Elaine!
Arlena says
Ladies all your replies are words if Encouragement for me. Been struggling…. God never fails & is Always on time. Thank you! Needed assurance & comfort today. No matter my situation My God is here, present & able! I’m guilty if reading more of books,devotions & blogs more than The Bible. I asked for direction today & he is giving & leading my path. So so I will begin!
Robin Dance says
Arlena,
“Now” is always the perfect time to begin a new thing. Never believe the lie that it’s “too late.” I’m praying for you this morning, too.
Beth Williams says
Robin,
For a few years I read through the Bible in a year. I did it as I felt challenged by my pastor to be in the word daily. I’ve read the Bible & heard enough sermons to have some scripture memorized. My life verse is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord. “plans to prosper you & not to harm you. To give you a hope & a future. It brings my life into focus. I like Esther. It teaches that God places us in various places to carry out His plans. Ruth is a great book also. It talks about God redeeming our lives. He can take disaster & make something better out of it!
Blessings 🙂
Robin Dance says
Beth,
I’ve read through the Bible before, too, but I’m afraid it was more of a box-checking thing than love for His word. Still, it’s putting Spirit-filled words into my mind, and that’s always good. Ruth and Esther…mercy, we can learn so much in those precious books and lives!
Erin says
Matthew is my favorite as I find his parable teachings and the way he described things the most convicting to me.
Robin Dance says
Erin,
We get to see such a clear picture of Jesus in Matthew’s inspired words. Some of my favorite life verses come from him… :).
Lucretia Berry says
Is it ok for me to say that I don’t have a favorite book of the Bible. I love the OT for its crazy drama! I love the NT because…well, JESUS! I love how all the writers’ — prophets, poets, kings, shepherds, tent-makers, judges, queens, lawyers, and more — words collectively convey the essence of God — LOVE!!! I love the Bible as a frame, definition and reflection of LOVE.
Robin Dance says
Lucretia…you rule-breaker!! 😉 🙂
Actually, I’ve been waiting for someone to say that! Two points for you! (not that there’s any right answer; the point was to give us reasons to think differently, and you’ve accomplished that 🙂 ).
For me, choosing one book is like choosing a favorite child. I love them all uniquely and fiercely. I do know this, I want to love, esteem, regard, understand, abide in, delight in, celebrate, be challenged by, live out the Holy scriptures. They are a feast! xoxo