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Everywhere Holy: Seeing Beauty, Remembering Your Identity, and Finding God Right Where You Are
“Readers who are dealing with depression, parenting struggles, questions of identity and self-image, or who simply find it hard to bring prayer into their chaotic life will find welcome encouragement in Lawler’s rejuvenating words.” – Publishers Weekly Popular writer and blogger Kara Lawler shows women how to embrace the sacred in mundane, ordinary life--and in the process, discover themselves. Life doesn't have to be lived on grand mountaintops for it to be meaningful. We can see God at work right where we in our ordinary and mundane routines, in the faces of our family and friends, and--especially--in nature. Kara Lawler speaks to the hearts of those who find themselves lost in the midst of their chaotic schedules and weary attempts to be all that is expected of them. Everywhere Holy addresses our deepest struggles, In beautiful prose, Lawler describes the unique sacredness found in God's creation and offers fifteen inspiring insights for cultivating it day-to-day. She encourages you to make this lifestyle change through the observance of small acts. In so doing, you will discover a holy space that honors God and the life you’ve been given--and will discover yourself and your unique place in the holy that is everywhere, whether it’s in the woods behind your house or in the face of a stranger on a bus in a busy city. No matter where you are, there is holy free for the taking.
224 pages, Paperback
Published December 3, 2019
About the author
Kara Lawler
3 books30 followersKara Lawler is the author of GOD, RIGHT HERE (IVP Kids), EVERYWHERE HOLY (Thomas Nelson) and the co-author of A LETTER FOR EVERY MOTHER (Hachette). Kara’s work has been featured in many media outlets and some of her essays have been read millions of times. Kara lives in the Appalachian Mountains with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 13, 2020
This is the perfect book to read that may help during these times of uncertainty. The book is for you if you are weary, worried and worn out to help deal with struggles, depression and bring sprayer and peace into our chaotic life. Kara Lawler, a popular writer and blogger, through this book shows us how to find holy in the most mundane and unlikely places to find our peace and prayer.
I loved the writing and the stories that provide inspiration, hope and positivity. This was the perfect read for me right now where I feel the need to find joy, feel more connected, to love and be loved.
I loved the writing and the stories that provide inspiration, hope and positivity. This was the perfect read for me right now where I feel the need to find joy, feel more connected, to love and be loved.
January 24, 2020
Lawler’s writing is captivating, but as with so many blogs turned books I found this repetitive and was skimming by the end.
August 15, 2021
I was first attracted to this book's beautiful cover. Then, one sentence in the Introduction spoke to me: "I didn't yet know that the art of noticing beauty is a spiritual discipline-the best form of prayer I found yet, the best way to find gratitude-and that life, in and of itself, is holy." (p. xii) I knew then I had to read it. Just noticing beauty all around (like I used to) is the best form of prayer?
The author, first talks of her depession and working on getting through those moments. I believe most young women with children do go through periods of depression from time-to-time, I know I did back in the day. Some get locked into that depression with feelings of uselessness and unworthiness.
If you are a young woman now, and have children, Kara Lawler's experience with learning to see the small beautiful things in life again may be very helpful for you. Seeing the super small moments of beauty in your children is a gift in itself and is a form of prayer and gratitude to God.
P. 121: I told them we needed to stop and watch the fog, if just for a moment, because stopping, noticing, and paying attention to our lives right where we are is prayer.
The author, first talks of her depession and working on getting through those moments. I believe most young women with children do go through periods of depression from time-to-time, I know I did back in the day. Some get locked into that depression with feelings of uselessness and unworthiness.
If you are a young woman now, and have children, Kara Lawler's experience with learning to see the small beautiful things in life again may be very helpful for you. Seeing the super small moments of beauty in your children is a gift in itself and is a form of prayer and gratitude to God.
P. 121: I told them we needed to stop and watch the fog, if just for a moment, because stopping, noticing, and paying attention to our lives right where we are is prayer.
February 24, 2020
Kara wrote beautifully and I agree with another review remind me of Ann Voskamp. On the whole I loved the reminder that God is with us everywhere however I was slightly unsure about the mention of those who have died being with us and walking with buddha?It may have just been 'author speak' but I was concerned that it was bordering on something that I didn't agree with?But I read the whole book and overall felt encouraged by her words, so thank you.
May 20, 2020
This is a great book! It shows us the author’s life and how you can find Everywhere Holy. I’m kind of like this author. She’s always looking for Holy and everywhere she looks, she finds it. Because we can find God’s Holiness everywhere. It was full of so many inspiring things. I truly loved it! Thank you to #NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review #EverywhereHoly in my honest perspective.
February 6, 2020
The first chapter is mostly about the author’s problems with depression and anxiety. As I read that, I really hoped it wasn’t going to be the largest part of the entire book, because, while I sympathized with her, and I’ve had my own experiences with that, I was really looking for something uplifting. I am glad I stayed with this because it is so much more than encouragement for those who suffer from depression and anxiety. After that first chapter, the story grows into something beautiful.
I thoroughly appreciated the authors gentle writing style. I loved how she appreciates all the beauty and blessings she encounters, so much of it through her experiences with her children and husband. From the wildlife that lives around her to rainy days and time spent just being present, she has a very grateful way of seeing things.
I loved this book, and I’m sure I will read it again and again.
I thoroughly appreciated the authors gentle writing style. I loved how she appreciates all the beauty and blessings she encounters, so much of it through her experiences with her children and husband. From the wildlife that lives around her to rainy days and time spent just being present, she has a very grateful way of seeing things.
I loved this book, and I’m sure I will read it again and again.
April 24, 2020
It’s difficult to see God in some of our situations. Kara helped to change my perspective to recognize God is at work right now in the midst of my routine and my relationships. More than anything she helped me realize my life doesn’t have to be lived on grand mountain tops for it to be meaningful. Everything is holy when we look through the lens of God who is always holy.
April 6, 2020
All readers will resonate with some portion of this book!
People have a common misconception that God’s holiness is only found in certain places. Many have experienced His holiness on a mountaintop, by a rushing river, in a cathedral, and in a meadow, but perhaps it is because they expected to find it there. Kara Lawler shows readers that everywhere we look is holy. Special moments between friends or parents and children as well as moments of reflection can bring out His holiness. We don’t have to look in grand places, just look were we are. We are loved just as we are, and He wants us to know that!
If you are living through the hustle and bustle of life with a need to slow down, this book is for you. If you deal with depression, this book is for you. If you have questions about your self-image, this book is for you. Basically, whatever you are dealing with, this book is for you. I don’t think there is a better time than now for people to have a copy of this book. Many of us are experiencing the challenges of staying at home in response to the COVID-19 situation being experienced throughout the world. Many of us are facing new challenges we’ve never thought we would experience, yet at the same time, we are discovering that we actually have down time and don’t know what to do with ourselves. The answer is simple, read this book and reflect on it. Kara Lawler shares many of her personal experiences and challenges that so many women will find similar to their own stories.
The two parts of this book that really resonated with were the chapter on water and the chapter on angels. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to water, whether it is the ocean, river, stream, or waterfall. That is where I have always found the most sense of peach wash over me, just like the water is taking away my cares and troubles. I feel like I truly connected with the author at that moment. The chapter about angels made me cry, especially when she talked about how her daughter recognized when angels were watching over her. My youngest son had a traumatic accident when he was almost three years old and we had to put our faith in God and his angels when they loaded him into an ambulance to take him to a helicopter for a life flight. His angles watched over him then and they continue to do so today.
Readers will learn how to experience God in this beautifully written piece of work. I hope that you will learn to breathe and find His holiness wherever you are today!
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
People have a common misconception that God’s holiness is only found in certain places. Many have experienced His holiness on a mountaintop, by a rushing river, in a cathedral, and in a meadow, but perhaps it is because they expected to find it there. Kara Lawler shows readers that everywhere we look is holy. Special moments between friends or parents and children as well as moments of reflection can bring out His holiness. We don’t have to look in grand places, just look were we are. We are loved just as we are, and He wants us to know that!
If you are living through the hustle and bustle of life with a need to slow down, this book is for you. If you deal with depression, this book is for you. If you have questions about your self-image, this book is for you. Basically, whatever you are dealing with, this book is for you. I don’t think there is a better time than now for people to have a copy of this book. Many of us are experiencing the challenges of staying at home in response to the COVID-19 situation being experienced throughout the world. Many of us are facing new challenges we’ve never thought we would experience, yet at the same time, we are discovering that we actually have down time and don’t know what to do with ourselves. The answer is simple, read this book and reflect on it. Kara Lawler shares many of her personal experiences and challenges that so many women will find similar to their own stories.
The two parts of this book that really resonated with were the chapter on water and the chapter on angels. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to water, whether it is the ocean, river, stream, or waterfall. That is where I have always found the most sense of peach wash over me, just like the water is taking away my cares and troubles. I feel like I truly connected with the author at that moment. The chapter about angels made me cry, especially when she talked about how her daughter recognized when angels were watching over her. My youngest son had a traumatic accident when he was almost three years old and we had to put our faith in God and his angels when they loaded him into an ambulance to take him to a helicopter for a life flight. His angles watched over him then and they continue to do so today.
Readers will learn how to experience God in this beautifully written piece of work. I hope that you will learn to breathe and find His holiness wherever you are today!
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
April 3, 2020
Everywhere Holy by Kara Lawler is a powerful book about finding God everywhere. – He is in the mundane as well as the miraculous. We find Him in the valley and on the mountaintop. We meet with God in nature and in church. God is everywhere we are. He is nowhere we are not. “I could meet Him everywhere and anywhere if I’d only look.”
God is alive. He is with us now. We have not left Him somewhere in a past experience. The author explains that the same God of her childhood is the same God of her adulthood. She changed. He does not.
There are times when life feels like we are walking through a fog. We need to know that this too will pass. Whatever we go through, if we look for God, we will find signs of Him everywhere. “A holy beauty is everywhere.”
We cannot stop life happening to us but we can choose how we respond. We need to let go of what we cannot control and breathe in blessing. “There is no mess too big to stop me from seeing life in colour.” Remember when we can’t, God can.
“We can serve right where we are.” In the words of Kara Lawler’s daughter when she was three years old, “God gave us hearts to love people.” Wow! Out of the mouths of babes. This is just what Jesus commanded us to do in the Bible.
Kara Lawler writes in a very personable style. Everywhere Holy is a book that is accessible for all. It feels more like a missive from a dear friend, than a book, as we glimpse the author’s life and her heart as she reveals the heart of God.
God created us. God created the world. Everywhere is holy. We can see “heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads” is a quote from Henry David Thoreau.
Everywhere Holy is a powerful, positive book. As the world grapples with the coronavirus pandemic, we need to read this book as if focuses on the heart of God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. Everywhere Holy is the perfect book for now and every day.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
God is alive. He is with us now. We have not left Him somewhere in a past experience. The author explains that the same God of her childhood is the same God of her adulthood. She changed. He does not.
There are times when life feels like we are walking through a fog. We need to know that this too will pass. Whatever we go through, if we look for God, we will find signs of Him everywhere. “A holy beauty is everywhere.”
We cannot stop life happening to us but we can choose how we respond. We need to let go of what we cannot control and breathe in blessing. “There is no mess too big to stop me from seeing life in colour.” Remember when we can’t, God can.
“We can serve right where we are.” In the words of Kara Lawler’s daughter when she was three years old, “God gave us hearts to love people.” Wow! Out of the mouths of babes. This is just what Jesus commanded us to do in the Bible.
Kara Lawler writes in a very personable style. Everywhere Holy is a book that is accessible for all. It feels more like a missive from a dear friend, than a book, as we glimpse the author’s life and her heart as she reveals the heart of God.
God created us. God created the world. Everywhere is holy. We can see “heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads” is a quote from Henry David Thoreau.
Everywhere Holy is a powerful, positive book. As the world grapples with the coronavirus pandemic, we need to read this book as if focuses on the heart of God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. Everywhere Holy is the perfect book for now and every day.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
March 14, 2020
Everywhere Holy
Seeing Beauty, Remembering Your Identity, and Finding God Right Where You Are
by Kara Lawler
Nelson Books
Thomas Nelson
Christian
Pub Date 03 Dec 2019
I am reviewing a copy of Everywhere Holy through Thomas Nelson-Nelson Books and Netgalley:
Everywhere Holy reminds us that when life seems heavy the fog will rise, even if it doesn’t feel that way in the moment.
We are reminded too that we do not have to have a life lived on a grand mountaintop for it to be meaningful, God can work right where we are at, and I think many forget that as we go through valleys, he is there through our mundane routines, he is there in the faces of our loved ones and friends alike and he is there especially in the very nature he created.
Everywhere Holy offers encouragement to anyone who has suffered depression, has experienced pain or challenges, and reminds us that God is there.
During this time of pandemic and panic, I find Everywhere Holy to offer a respite, and a great deal of comfort.
I give Everywhere Holy five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Seeing Beauty, Remembering Your Identity, and Finding God Right Where You Are
by Kara Lawler
Nelson Books
Thomas Nelson
Christian
Pub Date 03 Dec 2019
I am reviewing a copy of Everywhere Holy through Thomas Nelson-Nelson Books and Netgalley:
Everywhere Holy reminds us that when life seems heavy the fog will rise, even if it doesn’t feel that way in the moment.
We are reminded too that we do not have to have a life lived on a grand mountaintop for it to be meaningful, God can work right where we are at, and I think many forget that as we go through valleys, he is there through our mundane routines, he is there in the faces of our loved ones and friends alike and he is there especially in the very nature he created.
Everywhere Holy offers encouragement to anyone who has suffered depression, has experienced pain or challenges, and reminds us that God is there.
During this time of pandemic and panic, I find Everywhere Holy to offer a respite, and a great deal of comfort.
I give Everywhere Holy five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
March 23, 2020
Everywhere Holy is a beautiful and breathtaking book about embracing the sacredness that lives all around us. Kara Lawler uses personal experiences to show how you can find God wherever you are and when you need Him most.
As I started this book, I was so captivated. Kara laid it all out. She detailed the good and the bad in her life and how she overcame that with faith and a belief that God is present. I appreciated her honesty. I could relate to so many of her experiences like dealing with loss and anxiety. It made me feel like I wasn't alone in this journey and that we all have a purpose to help each other realize how strong of a bond we can all have with God.
I loved that Kara was able to feel the presence of her loved ones during times of struggle. She said that she asked for a sign from God that a family member was with her and she got that sign. It may have been a smell, a place in the woods, or anywhere that is special to you.
I give Everywhere Holy 5 stars. It is so moving, real, and inspiring. I think so many people will feel at peace after they read this.
As I started this book, I was so captivated. Kara laid it all out. She detailed the good and the bad in her life and how she overcame that with faith and a belief that God is present. I appreciated her honesty. I could relate to so many of her experiences like dealing with loss and anxiety. It made me feel like I wasn't alone in this journey and that we all have a purpose to help each other realize how strong of a bond we can all have with God.
I loved that Kara was able to feel the presence of her loved ones during times of struggle. She said that she asked for a sign from God that a family member was with her and she got that sign. It may have been a smell, a place in the woods, or anywhere that is special to you.
I give Everywhere Holy 5 stars. It is so moving, real, and inspiring. I think so many people will feel at peace after they read this.
December 15, 2019
This book found me, not the other way around—my first clue it would be special, meaningful, and of particular import to my current state of mind. The author's take on prayer is a welcome rush of fresh air that compels me to keep walking the sometimes hard to discern path that is conversation with our creator. Her way of navigating ebbs and flows in relational love, using nature's gifts to shore up mental health, and training oneself to notice holiness absolutely everywhere help lead me out of my head—where it's all too easy to get stuck in a loop of hopelessness and what's it all for?—and back to my heart. It's softer there, more comfortable, and less fraught with the things that bog me down. Grateful for this gentle guide to everywhere holiness is found interlaced with sweet, poignant stories of hearth and home.
March 26, 2020
Everywhere Holy by Kara Lawler is about the presence of God in the ordinary. The reader is able to see beauty in the ordinary of life as we seek our identity in the presence of the Lord. This message of your true identity in Christ, is for all believers.
I feel that Kara writes more towards females, specifically mothers. This book is meant for anyone, but she really speaks to the heart of women. Her book is a conversation style type of writing, which makes you feel that you're sitting down at a coffee shop with her, discussing life. I love this style of writing because the reader is invited into the bigger story. She is real about her struggle with finding her identity, but invites the reader to go on a journey as she leads with vulnerably. Don't miss this book! You will really enjoy the journey and the read.
I feel that Kara writes more towards females, specifically mothers. This book is meant for anyone, but she really speaks to the heart of women. Her book is a conversation style type of writing, which makes you feel that you're sitting down at a coffee shop with her, discussing life. I love this style of writing because the reader is invited into the bigger story. She is real about her struggle with finding her identity, but invites the reader to go on a journey as she leads with vulnerably. Don't miss this book! You will really enjoy the journey and the read.
April 1, 2023
3.75. I liked this book, but not sure of a full 4 star rating where I “really liked it”. It is a book that would most appeal to those who live more rurally, nature lovers, mothers of younger children…. It’s not a how-to book but more of the author’s own personal experiences in discovering holiness in her own life. I found it inspirational and beautifully written.
My favorites:
P46 “it’s the paying attention that helps reveal the holy beauty all around.”
P72 “ I think the best part about breathing, blessing, and releasing is that it can all come back to you, in ways you didn’t imagine, as one phase of life morphs into another, one breath giving way to another, just like life”
P121 “ please, dear God, don’t let me forget how amazing it is to simply be (at my home, with my own small family)”
My favorites:
P46 “it’s the paying attention that helps reveal the holy beauty all around.”
P72 “ I think the best part about breathing, blessing, and releasing is that it can all come back to you, in ways you didn’t imagine, as one phase of life morphs into another, one breath giving way to another, just like life”
P121 “ please, dear God, don’t let me forget how amazing it is to simply be (at my home, with my own small family)”
December 31, 2020
Everywhere Holy is a book that discusses motherhood, living in the present, overcoming life’s hurdles, and finding holy in all places. Kara Lawler is candid in the way she speaks of anxiety, depression, and feeling lost in life. I appreciate her vulnerability to share her moments of weakness reminding us that our weaknesses make us stronger.
Though Everywhere Holy is a religious book, this book can speak to everyone on a basic human level. Kara reminds us to exist in the present moment and appreciate both the big and small things in life. Kara’s words are uplifting, inspiring, and encourage you to step outside of yourself and marvel at the beauty around you. If you’re feeling a little lost in life and/or need a spiritual pick-me-up, Everywhere Holy is worth the read.
Though Everywhere Holy is a religious book, this book can speak to everyone on a basic human level. Kara reminds us to exist in the present moment and appreciate both the big and small things in life. Kara’s words are uplifting, inspiring, and encourage you to step outside of yourself and marvel at the beauty around you. If you’re feeling a little lost in life and/or need a spiritual pick-me-up, Everywhere Holy is worth the read.
January 12, 2020
Everywhere Holy by Kara Lawler possesses the essence of extraordinary in the midst of ordinary. Lawler's style is conversational, as if the reader were with the author on her front porch sharing the beauty of place, experience, and Spirit. The messages of finding holy everywhere and self-acceptance will appeal to young mothers and empty-nesters like myself. Men and women will enjoy the book; however, Lawler's work appeals especially to my feminine perspective and my natural inclination to search for God as I amble through the day. Read the book as you would walk; take time to savor the holiness of insight with a peaceful pace.
January 27, 2020
Seeing this book on the library shelf and I was immediately drawn to the cover. Definitely not the kind of book I check out often, but I was in the mood for a mellow read, one that would create a little peace and calm in the crazy busy world around us all.
This one did...as I read the stories of her family it brought into focus more of what I should be looking for each day. Just the quiet moments that often go by so quickly in our hurried way to get what we think needs to be done, well done.
Stop and smell the roses, pay more attention to all the beauty around us, and just enjoy the little things in life.
This one did...as I read the stories of her family it brought into focus more of what I should be looking for each day. Just the quiet moments that often go by so quickly in our hurried way to get what we think needs to be done, well done.
Stop and smell the roses, pay more attention to all the beauty around us, and just enjoy the little things in life.
January 12, 2020
Do you live your life on fast forward? When was the last time you slowed down enough to notice a butterfly or the shifting of the fog? These are moments that can take your breath away and remind you to reconnect with those around you. And after struggling with depression and anxiety for years, Kara Lawler taught herself to see those moments and embrace the holiness of them once more.
Whether you need that reminder to slow down or just feel more connected with yourself and others, this is a good book to start the year with. Just breathe folks.
Whether you need that reminder to slow down or just feel more connected with yourself and others, this is a good book to start the year with. Just breathe folks.
June 14, 2020
I received an ARC from Thomas Nelson, via NetGalley. This review is my opinion.
Kara Lawler, open up her heart, this book feels so personal that it seems more like a diary. She goes on her journey as a woman, but mainly as a wife and mom, and how the ordinary has become holy when she needs the beauty behind all of it. This book is an invitation to be open, to let people in, to love freely, and to see how in our normal daily life we can experiment more if we see life through a wide and new eyes.
Kara Lawler, open up her heart, this book feels so personal that it seems more like a diary. She goes on her journey as a woman, but mainly as a wife and mom, and how the ordinary has become holy when she needs the beauty behind all of it. This book is an invitation to be open, to let people in, to love freely, and to see how in our normal daily life we can experiment more if we see life through a wide and new eyes.
April 5, 2020
I signed up for an Instagram tour for this, doing a first impressions review. From the first two chapters, I'm loving how raw and real and honest this is. It's incredibly relatable, and also encouraging. I love the accessibility of it. It's not a theoretical, theological text, but one to dig into and feel seen and find actual steps I can take to feel more connected to God. (Thanks Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for a free copy).
August 10, 2020
This book was a gift from my friend Joan. Though I found it a bit of a struggle to get into initially, it was certainly worth the effort.
Lawler is a wife, mother, teacher and writer who lives in the Allegheny Mountain region of Pennsylvania not far from where she grew up. This book touches on her struggles with depression and anxiety, but it is primarily a book about finding the holy in those people who surround us, in the daily events of our lives, and in nature.
Lawler is a wife, mother, teacher and writer who lives in the Allegheny Mountain region of Pennsylvania not far from where she grew up. This book touches on her struggles with depression and anxiety, but it is primarily a book about finding the holy in those people who surround us, in the daily events of our lives, and in nature.
September 19, 2023
This is one to pick up and read a chapter at a time. A simple message, yet Lawler is quite effective in getting you to notice the little “holy” moments in everyday life. My kids are grown, but I vividly recall the days of chaos that come with being a young mom. As she she finds holy moments amid laundry, stomach bugs, and temper tantrums she points the reader to noticing those moments in our own lives.
January 13, 2020
I love the title and premise of this book, but it was not the book for me. The author's writing style is too choppy and lyrical for my tastes, though I think many others will like it. It reminds me of Ann Voskamp. Goodreads rating: 2 stars (it was ok)
I received an ARC from NetGalley.
I received an ARC from NetGalley.
February 2, 2020
Many folded corners in this book. Each chapter is filled with descriptions of the author finding the holy in everything in her life, good and not so good. A book that will never be over, as I’ll pick it up again and again.
February 8, 2021
Too much about nothing much at all. Lawler's main message that God, your faith and holiness can be found in the smallest nuggets of life all the way to the biggest gestures, crossroads, celebrations and hard times is so very true. IMO, this book could have been tackled in a 3 or 4 page article.
March 14, 2020
A beautifully written book. I was swept away into the farm life and the simple suggestions of holiness all around us. I love Kara's style of writing and look forward to reading more from her.
March 18, 2020
I needed this book.....loved it!!!!
June 24, 2020
Lovely written and full of truth telling. It took me awhile to read because I savored the stories and how she wrote. Top on my list to read again and highly recommend
July 1, 2020
A sweet story of finding God in every situation and the face of those we love, I kept on reading and finished the whole book and it was calming. A good quiet read for a few rainy days.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews