Waking Up Slowly: Spiritual Lessons from My Dog, My Kids, Critters, and Other Unexpected Places

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through Tyndale House Publishers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 : Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Waking Up Slowly explores the many types of distractions which are in our lives, even ourselves being one of those distractions; distracting us from God and all that He has for us. Dave brings everyday circumstances to light as using them as examples in how they affect our relationship and worship with and to God.

Some of the topics in Waking Up Slowly which really spoke to me were taking a break from electronic devices, what the Sabbath really is about, worrying, and fellowship with others. Daves writing style and his message really make Waking Up Slowly a definite page-turner as well as a valuable resource in our life walk.

Waking Up Slowly: Spiritual lessons from my dog, my kids, critters, and other unexpected places, written by Dave Burchett, is a down-to-earth, extremely relatable look at the amazing things surrounding us that point us to God. The trouble is, for most of us, we are took busy, too distracted and too self-involved to even notice these things exist, let alone are trying to tell us something. Dave challenges us (and himself) to disconnect from our ever-constant digital devices and look around, spend some time soaking in, and waking up to, those glimpses of God's pure love and grace. In his delightful story-telling, Dave offers us anecdotes from his own experiences and challenges, ranging from working in a mostly secular career field to the trials and joys of being a grandpa. By the way, fellow Texans and baseball enthusiasts... Dave Burchett is the television coverage director for the Texas Rangers!

What I really enjoyed about this book was the way Dave feels like a friend, not someone lecturing or pointing the finger. He cheerfully admits that unplugging is hard for him, too (and that technology is necessary, so you can't just give it up completely). He offers scripture, biblical advice, real-life application and encouragement in each chapter, revolving around a variety of topics.

This book helped motivate me to log off of Facebook, put down the phone and step away from my computer more often in order to be more present with my kids. They are always vying for my attention, not just against each other, but also against my devices. They deserve my full and undivided attention, and not to have to compete with a piece technology. I see them growing before my eyes, developing and maturing into amazing people... I'd hate to miss that because of a glowing screen. Thanks for the gentle reminder, Dave!

I received a free copy of this title from the Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for my honest review.