“What we behold determines who/what we become”. We are all designed to adore and worship, but the object of our worship is often misplaced. We are designed to adore and worship the One True God, the King of Kings, and Ruth Chou Simons writes so beautifully about her journey to grasp this truth, as well as educates us in practical ways to train our eyes and heart to worship the Lord unceasingly – in outdoor nature, in our homes, in our vocations, our words, our view of Self, our identity. Simons’ desire is to see us fully engaged in the dance of Worship and Transformation, for example: behold God’s goodness, become generous as an outpouring of that truth; behold God’s mercy, become a merciful and tenderhearted person; behold the rest of God, and become someone who rests in HIS sovereign power and unending care. Once you fix your gaze upon Jesus and his truth, you begin to see yourself becoming more like Him because He is the object of your affection. When we fix our eyes on Jesus, our eyes come OFF of ourselves, and we become more like Him. See this truth beautifully portrayed through the author’s delightful artistry and words; Simons' art is refreshing and compelling, as it is infused with biblical scripture truths. You will enjoy this book immensely.

First, let me say that the paintings in this book are beautiful! I often retreat to nature to feel more connected to our Creator, and it was so refreshing to be able to encounter nature while reading scripture and reflections. The author works hard to connect our ordinary, every day lives to something bigger and more important - everyday worship. Her quote: "How we direct our eyes, minds, hearts and hands in the everyday will determine whom we ultimately worship and what we ultimately become" is a touchstone for this entire book. Through using a back and forth between 'Beholding' and 'Becoming', Ruth provides a combination of reflection and action. I look forward to returning to this book through different seasons of life.

So, so, so beautiful!!! Can’t wait to have the hard copy in my hand! (Although I would love to see this and Gracelaced in kindle so I can take it with me places I would worry about ruining it😉).
I would say this is probably the most detailed one to date. I LOVE the image glossary especially because it shares the intimate meaning behind Ruth’s art. (She didn’t just paint bees and butterflies because she thought they looked nice that day). In fact, I believe this the most personal of all her work. Ruth speaks as a friend. I felt I was getting to know her better and that she felt more comfortable sharing now that she knows we actually care to hear her thoughts and processes. I look forward to seeing where this friendship takes us in the future.