Book Review: God's Promises Devotional Journal

I waited for two and a half months for this devotional to arrive from Thomas Nelson. After all, I am on the other side of the world, and up in the mountains. They sent it to me for free as a part of the Booksneeze program in exchange for an honest review. I am under no obligation to give a positive review. Well, that's a relief, because frankly, I was a bit disappointed. Not in the beautiful, raised leaf design hard cover book. Not in the impressive list of contributors including Billy Graham, Anne Graham Lotz, Patsy Clairmont, Elisabeth Elliot, and David Jeremiah. Not in the selection of Bible verses used, one for each day of the year. Not in the amount of space provided to journal in reflection of each entry, nor in the very brief length of the devotion. I think it is good to focus on a small morsel of scripture, and reflect on what God is saying to me. If I want a lengthy exposition of the scripture, I would go to a different type of volume. What is disappointing is the organization of the devotional journal. Each month begins with a quote from one of the contributing authors on a beautifully designed page which continues the green leaf theme of the cover. I expected the following devotions to be linked thematically, either by major thought expressed in the quote, or related scripture verses. I couldn't find such a link. If it's there, it eluded me. Yes, they are all (at times) loosely related to God's promises, but no other apparent connection within the month. My thinking is random enough. Speaking of random, there seems to be no organization of the scriptures used, no index to help me find some thoughts on a particular scripture, which is my second disappointment.
In conclusion, God's Promises Devotional Journal is a beautifully presented volume with an impressive list of contributors and adequate space to reflect on their brief thoughts on the day's scripture. It's make a lovely gift to a new believer needing some help in getting into the habit of a daily quiet time and journaling.