Expectant: Cultivating a Vision for Christ-Centered Pregnancy Paperback – Import, 1 May 2020

I wanted to like this book, but it was difficult to read. It 'FEELS" like (i completely allow for the fact that I could be wrong) that the author is saying "Afraid? Don't be, God is in control and here's a verse." "Messy? Don't be, God doesn't like chaos and here's a verse! Be organized!" she goes on about all the things we should not be and doesn't leave much grace for the times we fail. I am not trying to make excuses I am getting better and being able to tell when I am not doing things through His power, but she also seems to imply that any time we have some down time as a mom we should be only praying or reading the bible. She implies any time you feel too tired for ANYTHING the right answer is push through and do it anyway which feels (to me) like a dangerous message for moms who are already working really really hard at life and sometimes just need to REST not push through. It feels like a book to read if you already are doing pretty well as a mom and feel like you need something to keep you accountable, but if you are a struggling mom in any way shape or form this book will leave you feeling guilty and unworthy.

Heather has a sweet and simple way of encouraging you with truth. I greatly appreciate the fact that while this was her first published book, it didn't have any of the usual amateur characteristics (unprofessional/noncommittal writing style, weird graphics/fonts, confusing layout, unorganized content... I've seen quite a few). I also was impressed with her ability to address multiple situations that are common to pregnancy, yet not get bogged down with details irrelevant to her main point.Those of you who are looking for a month-by-month guide to pregnancy won't find it here, but what you will find is a vastly encouraging message. This would probably be an especially helpful book for women who have seen or been told that pregnancy is nine months of misery-- this is NOT true, and you can have a far better experience, while blessing those you love most. As I read through Heather's well-thought-out chapters, I was inspired in some areas, motivated in others, and convicted in a few key points that I could definitely do better the next time I'm pregnant.

The title, "Expectant: Cultivating a Vision for Christ-Centered Pregnancy", really sums up well what is contained in this fine book. The author never departs from this beautiful foundation of keeping Christ at the center of the journey of pregnancy. And as a husband and a father, I believe that the truths and insights contained in these pages are valuable for women preparing to have a baby, and anyone who will engage in this process together with the expecting mother.Heather Cofer does an exceptional job at drawing from her own experiences as a girl growing up with seven brothers and sisters, and now as a mother with four children of her own. She is honest about the difficulties of pregnancy and motherhood, but she is also just as honest about what it means to genuinely apply the Word of God to every situation, and the certainty that Jesus is always there...offering hope, joy and peace.A very compelling aspect of this book is the "guest" contributors who Heather asked to tell their stories of God's work in their lives during pregnancy. Among other things, these women share beautiful and practical examples of how to be hospitable during pregnancy, how to serve others, and how the Lord helped them to thrive during the challenges of this unique nine-month season. Also included are stories from women who experienced difficulties such as infertility, stillbirth and other trauma.I'm unaware of any other book written which addresses pregnancy the way "Expectant" does, and I believe it is a must read for those who desire to honor Jesus during this extremely important time of life!

This book was alright, it felt a bit basic. More like a book on how to be a Christian while pregnant. Maybe good for a first time mom wanting to break from western cultural norms but not particularly helpful as a mom with a pregnancy or two under her belt. The end of the book focuses more on pain during delivery and that seemed the most relevant to the title. The rest of the book was typical Christian But how to handle these things while pregnant (ie having a house that hosts guests). Again, not a bad book but just not great if this isn’t your first pregnancy.

Although I am over eighty and didn’t think reading about pregnancy was going to be rich and helpful to me, I was amazed that Heather touched on so many aspects about pregnancy that relate to all of life’s need to turn the flesh over to the transforming power of God’s Word. I also was amazed that I had never been directed at that time in my life to think spiritually about giving each normal experience and my reactions to them to the “Light of the World.“ It is a good read for any woman even as a resource to have available for younger women. I chose this rating because it is well written, captivating and comprehensive about the subject, with many honest examples given to enhance the processes suggested for change. Also it is about time someone turned some light on this subject for the glory of our Creator.