The Beauty Of An Uncluttered Soul By Carla Gasser

The Beauty of an Uncluttered Soul

by Carla Gasser

Illustrated by Vivian Kammel

Publisher: Bethany House

ISBN: 9780764235184

I don't know about you, but just the title of this book spoke to me. The idea of having an uncluttered soul is incredibly appealing. So, of course I asked to review the book so they sent me a gorgeous hardcover copy!

Summary:

Allow God's Spirit to Transform You from the Inside Out

When the world seems chaotic, extreme, and out of control, we sometimes find ourselves wishing for order and simplicity in our personal lives, hoping to gain a sense of peace and purpose. Scroll through social media, read bestselling self-help books, or watch any DIY television show, and you will discover there are plenty of ways to transform your home, your body, and your life.

But how do we care for our souls?
The Bible teaches us how to apply the principles of self-care and minimalism to the clutter within. Using the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) as a guide, this nine-week devotional will help you cleanse yourself from the inside out by allowing God's Spirit to come and produce the soul qualities you're longing for.

Purge your past. 
Shake out worry. 
Open your heart. 
Cleanse your mind.
Declutter your attitudes.

We all want more love, joy, peace, patience, and self-control. Let this book be your guide to soul transformation.

My Review:

I've never wanted to get a piece of furniture because of a book, but The Beauty of an Uncluttered Soul made a coffee table more appealing to me for a change. While this is really a devotional, not a coffee table book, it's beautiful enough to take center stage.

First, I like how the book is set up. The author starts off by teaching the reader to use the acronym SOUL: search, observe, use, and learn. In the beginning she teaches us, "Whether you desire a healthier body that functions optimally, a clean home that invites peace and purpose, or a clutter-free soul that thrives, picturing the end result helps give focus and motivation." I need to work on picturing end goals! From there, she helps us understand each piece of the acronym. We're also given a list of tools that will help the book come in handy. I even went through the art supply section at a craft store looking at supplies I could possibly use as I worked through the devotional!

Second, the illustrations throughout the book create a sense of beauty and peace as you turn each page. There's something about the watercolors that invites a smile to my face with each page that I turn. Oh to have a gift like the illustrator.

Each section (chapter) of the book encourages us to look at Scripture for understanding and growing in the topic being discussed. And if you're anything like me, you're hesitant to write in these books. To me, it mars the pristine-ness of the book when it's so gorgeous as is. I know that's not the purpose of the book, but if you're not going to use the spaces they give you, grab a journal so you can write down your answers. I know writing things down like that strengthens what I've learned and helps me remember it better.

I love that this book is all about the fruit of the Spirit. I appreciate that the author challenges what we know or understand about each of the attributes. Let's take "patience" for example. I was like the author when I thought of how I'd describe a person who I deemed "patient". That whole section challenged me because unlike God I look at the circumstances, not the person and respond accordingly, which would be the incorrect way to respond. 

There is a lot of opportunity for soul growth through this devotional, but an even greater opportunity to draw nearer to the Lord. This book would be perfect as a gift or treat yourself to this beautiful book. Take daily time to immerse yourself in the study and grow through it!

About the Author:

Carla Gasser is a speaker, teacher, blogger, and writer. Carla is passionate about communicating truth and grace, connecting passion and purpose, and championing others to share their stories. She is the proud mother of four young adults and lives in Hudson, Ohio, with her husband, Michael. You can learn more about her and join her on the journey by visiting www.carlagasser.com.

Vivian Kammel is an artist and graphic designer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. When not designing or creating, she spends her time exploring the city with her husband, Caleb. View more of her work and story at www.viviankammel.com or on Instagram @viviankammel.