An accessible and thoughtful book that provides concrete steps for people to take as they seek to be genuinely transformed in their relationship with Jesus.
The alphabet provides a simple road map that will draw you into the readings and encourage you to take practical steps toward personal transformation.
Steve Hallblade is the author of the devotional, An Alphabet for Change. He currently owns and operates a private marketing firm just outside St. Paul, Minnesota. Both he and his wife, Kristine, are active in the community at Eagle Brook Church in the Twin Cities. They have two adult children and live in Hugo, Minnesota.
Good thoughtful devotional. I read a passage most days for a little over a month. Good way to focus on “whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are right, whatever things are pure, whatever things are pleasing, whatever things are commendable, if there is any excellence of character and if anything praiseworthy, think about these things. whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are right, whatever things are pure, whatever things are pleasing, whatever things are commendable, if there is any excellence of character and if anything praiseworthy, think about these things.” Phil. 4:8
Disclosure: Author is my cousin, and I’m glad for Christ’s transforming power in his life and in my life.
Overall I really enjoyed Alphabet for Change. I don’t know that I would specifically recommend it to everyone, however! This would be especially PERFECT for youth groups to go through or new Christian small groups. It is structured perfectly for a semester study, and with the Bible verses taken from a newer translation, makes the short chapters perfect for a 30-45 min Bible study. Groups can easily read through each letter, then go back and break down each verse and how to apply it, and then the transformation at the end of each chapter is like the “homework” for the week. I know I will for sure be recommending it for my churches youth group and introduction to Christianity classes. Everyone can certainly gain something from reading Alphabet for Change, it’s just up to the reader to take initiative with focusing on the guideposts and actually opening their Bible to really study through it on their own. In my opinion, this is a much better group devotional than an individual one.
An Alphabet for Change by Steve Hallblade is a unique and clever devotional that uses every letter of the alphabet to help us summon positive and virtuous change in our lives. Every letter helps us examine our lives and offers us an opportunity to reflect where we are and where we need to go in order to move forward with effective change.
I personally found each section filled with sound advice and positive affirmations and I really liked the examples he often gave from his own personal life. I have to admit when reading this book, I often had to pause and reflect on his words and repeatedly heard myself saying, “Wow, that’s something I need to work on”. Never berating, but with kind words and encouragement, each turn of the page brought me to new insights and deeper understanding of living a more genuine life
To give you some examples, the author talks about Authenticity, Compassion, Forgiveness, Mercy, Repentance and Self-Control just to name a few. He relays to the reader the power that the Holy Spirit can play in our lives to change, if only we invite Him in. He also includes bible passages in stepping towards our personal conversion at the end of each new letter. Like I said above, it’s a unique and clever way of getting our attention.
It’s frequently said if you want change, start with yourself. and I believe this to be true. I think this book will help any reader reflect on their own faith journey, where they are currently and where they would like to go. If you read from a daily devotional, or pick one up on occasion, I believe An Alphabet for Change by Steve Hallblade is one that you will return to again and again.
A thoughtful and and insightful devotional. Each chapter focuses on one word alphabetically and draws from scripture and life experience. Each chapter is short, clear, and easy to follow. The language is accessible and will make a good family devotional. I read it fairly quickly to ascertain if it would be a good tool for family bible study and it is certainly structured in a way that my 12 and 14 year olds will appreciate. We are now reading it together out loud and discussing. This creates about a 30 minute session that is authentic and focused. We try to do life lessons sessions with the kids a couple of times a week and this little devotional fits right in. . Thank you Steve for my copy and the personal note. . I received my copy as a goodreads giveaway
This is a very insightful and informative read. I found myself inspired by reading each section. There are some very valuable and deep thoughts in this book, presented in a way that is easy to understand. You feel like you're sitting with the author enjoyed a cup of coffee as he shares these valuable insights. Highly recommended!
What a clever book to keep believers in Christ accountable!
I used this book every morning as a devotional to keep me mindful throughout the day and sometimes before retiring to bed; praying and meditating on Godly principles. I even challenge myself, trying to remember each attribute through the lens of the alphabet. Some really stood out to me. For example, the letter “P” focused on Peace. I compared the information against my behaviors and actions. There is always room for improvement.
The verifiable commentary provided by author, Steve Hallblade provides comfort in knowing that God is with me on my journey and helping me to fulfill purpose. Looking for a book that will challenge your growth in God? This is an incredible tool to use.
Synopsis: “In this accessible and thoughtful book, Steve provides concrete steps for people to take as they seek to be genuinely transformed in their relationships with Jesus. The alphabet provides a simple road map that will draw you into the readings and encourage you to take practical steps toward personal transformation. For both new believers and lifelong followers of Christ, this is a must have devotional.” (Quote from the back cover by Jon Taylor) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Analysis: Whether you’re looking for a monthly devotional or a topical study, this book is a great resource to add to your Christian living library! I loved how each topic covered here is saturated with Scripture. (My only negative would be that I don’t prefer the Message translation, but it’s easy to look up another Bible version that you prefer 😊) Every letter of the alphabet explores a Christian virtue to add and apply to your life. With practical tips at the end of each reading, it gives you a jumpstart in how to start applying the Bible to your everyday life. Easy to use and ready to put into practice, this is a perfect tool for your next Bible study! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️