Karen Ehman has done it again! Karen’s book, “Listen Love Repeat” could not have come at a better time. We live in a self-centered world, and she urges us to live in an others-centered world. Karen has a unique ability to draw you in with her warmth and equip you with practical ideas of how to scatter seeds of encouragement and kindness.
Ehman’s advice of how to listen for a heart drop was a beautiful reminder of the blessing of investing in others. Being intentional in everything we do is living the example of Christ and dying to self. I loved her insight on page 29, “If you want to find your life, first you need to lose it. In order to bring joy to yourself, first you need to be more concerned with bringing joy to others. If you want to feel significant, you need to embrace obscurity and instead make others feel significant.”
Powerful words we all need to embed in our hearts. She shares the importance of honoring others above ourselves. Honoring others above ourselves is a refreshing idea, in contrast, to the world. Her heart demonstrates her most significant relationship is with Jesus.
“Listen Love Repeat” made me re-evaluate my motives and the value of my relationship with my best friend. It took me back to when we met and how our relationship has changed over the years, but our focus has always remained on Christ. Each chapter makes you dig a little deeper into your soul, but there is no lack of encouragement, suggestions or ideas to steer you towards listening for a heart drop and experiencing joy through serving. I loved the prayers at the end of each chapter giving me a point to stop.reflect.move.
This book has inspired me to step out of my box and step up to the plate. It also reminds me to slow down and take notice of those around me who are hurting, need encouragement, a listening ear or just a good laugh. Her personal story of losing her sister-in-law hit close to my heart, dealing with the ambush of grief. Anyone who has lost a beloved friend or relative will relate. I appreciated her authenticity in saying she doesn’t always know what to say or how to say it. Because neither do I. Her advice in what to do in the toughest of situations was thoughtful, kind and to the point.
“Listen Love Repeat” isn’t just an advice book, but provides scripturally based reasons of the importance of loving and serving each other well, whether it is your spouse, family member or a complete stranger. You will find yourself challenged, possibly shedding some tears or laughing, but the one thread that stays all through her message is scattering kindness and sharing love.
We are a world in desperate need of some humble pie, and I’m grateful for Momma Karen and Miss Pat reminding us on page 219 of the two reasons we are here. “One is to have a relationship with God, thereby making it into heaven. And the second reason is to take other people with us.”
As we begin to enter the holiday season “Listen Love Repeat” will give you the sense of urgency to remind you that loving and serving people is the most valuable gift we can give, receive and use to truly honor God.
To follow the example of “Listen Love Repeat” I am giving away the book, “Listen Love Repeat” to a blessed reader. However, to win, you have to either leave a comment about your favorite way to scatter seeds of kindness or how kindness from someone else has impacted you. This giveaway will be open until November, 24th at midnight.
I look forward to reading your comments.
Disclosure:FCC Compliance The Blythe Daniel Agency provided complimentary copies of this book for the purpose of this review. However, the opinions are my own.
there is a small free library outside the elementary school near my house. I love filling it up with kids books every few weeks, so children who may not otherwise be able to have their own, can take these home and get excited about reading!
Jen! That is amazing!!!! What a precious thing to do and such a great investment into children. Knowledge is power!!!
Thank you for sharing