Ezekiel
Every Life Positioned for Purpose
Ezekiel: Every Life Positioned for Purpose is a ten-week daily study of the biblical book of Ezekiel. Interspersing discussion and comprehension questions with historical context and personal insight, Erica Wiggenhorn provides readers with guidance for working through one of the Bible’s longest and potentially most confusing books.
Wiggenhorn’s tone is warm and personable. In the introduction, she writes, “I cannot tell you how much I wish I could be there with you to hear all that God shows you.” Addressing the reader in this direct and immediate way creates an intimate connection between author and audience.
Throughout the text, Wiggenhorn provides a helpful blend of questions. She asks, “Why do you think your actions would grieve the Lord?” She follows this thought-provoking question with a more concrete one, writing, “Look back carefully at Ezekiel 4:5. What did the 390 days represent?” This mixture of questions helps stretch readers in a personal and spiritual way while also deepening their level of comprehension about Ezekiel’s content. At another point, Wiggenhorn questions, “How often do we go on our own way, do our own thing, and then complain when God doesn’t shield us?” This kind of commentary helps guide the reader through the passages and provides structure for an individual journey.
The inclusion of Wiggenhorn’s own thoughts and insights will make this book a useful resource for a Bible study leader. A person leading such a group can easily utilize Wiggenhorn’s work and questions and successfully head a rich study without having to do extensive preparation. That said, an individual reader can also enjoy a wonderful study without being part of a large group.
Wiggenhorn’s background at Azusa Pacific University and involvement in full-time ministry help equip her to write an inspiring devotional aimed at women. Yet at times, her audience is unclear. Wiggenhorn addresses her readers as both “girls” and “ladies.” Although the study could easily benefit young women in late high school or early college, it has little to attract girls in their early teens. Considering the intensity of the Christian devotional market aimed at that age group, Wiggenhorn would do well to carefully distinguish her perceived audience.
Occasionally, the titles of the daily studies are not clearly related to the topic. For instance, one study entitled “Polly Put the Kettle On” never mentions or explains the phrase in the chapter. In addition, Wiggenhorn’s humor sometimes falls flat. One joke about not setting off car alarms is not related to the topic she is discussing and is barely amusing.
Overall, Wiggenhorn’s book provides an interesting and readable look at a part of the Bible that is rarely addressed by women’s devotionals. Her friendly tone, personable style, and knowledge of the book of Ezekiel ensures that any reader will benefit from her guidance.
Reviewed by
Emily Adams
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book and paid a small fee to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. Foreword Reviews and Clarion Reviews make no guarantee that the publisher will receive a positive review. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
