Review
Title: Don’t Miss This In The Old Testament
Authors: Emily Belle Freeman & David Butler
Publisher: Deseret Book
Genre: Doctrinal/Inspirational
Year Published: 2021
Number of Pages: 226
Binding: Paperback
ISBN13: 978-1-62972-951-0
Price: $19.99
Reviewed by Trudy Thompson for the Association For Mormon Letters
In the tradition of their other “Don’t Miss This” volumes, Freeman and Butler have in Don’t Miss This In The Old Testament once again utilized their short devotional style lessons, concentrating this time more on the stories of the Old Testament, rather than on the doctrine. Some of their content comes from the Book of Mormon, and the Pearl of Great Price, and they often describe the Hebrew meaning of words. As in their other books, a favorite verse from (almost) every chapter of the Old Testament is discussed on each page of the book. At the bottom of each page is a “Reflect and Respond” section and a place to list your favorite scripture from that passage.
From the stories in the Old Testament, Freeman and Butler outline lessons on building a testimony, strengthening family, following the prophet and the consequences for not doing so, overcoming great adversity, instilling belief, understanding hope, and finding the courage to sustain us through the great battles of life.
People often ask the authors why the Old Testament is their favorite book of scripture. They respond that we live in a world that pleads for deliverance. While we may not be called upon to cross the Red Sea, find ourselves thrown into a pit, or face armies whose strength is greater than ours, there will be days when we face danger, oppression, and injustice. We will face evil, overwhelming health challenges, and perhaps the captivity of sin. In these moments, we must remember that, just as the Lord delivered the children of Israel, He has the power to deliver us from any power we must overcome in our life. The pages of the Old Testament testify of Him. In the midst of every challenge or adversity, one thing is certain-the Lord will deliver us. The Old Testament will help us understand how and Freeman and Bell help provide insights into understanding the Old Testament.