The scents of Christmas invite our imaginations into the holiday season. What emotions flood your heart when the holiday aromas waft your way?Did you know:•Many favorite holiday scents like cinnamon, citrus, and cinnamon are found in the Bible?•There is a rich heart connection attached to many of the plant essences found in Scripture?•Myrrh is such an important essence, we can follow its trail from Genesis to Revelation with many significant stops along the way? •Women of the Bible have personal encounters with God bringing aromas of His love and joy into their lives?•Palm branches are an important part of Biblical celebrations beginning in Genesis and ending in the ultimate beach party around the Crystal Sea? (Christmas at the beach, anyone?)In The Essence of Joy you’ll meet women of the Bible and contemporary women like you and me who will encourage you to discover the refreshing essence of a life lived in the presence of Jesus. Let JOY fill your heart with the aromas of His nativity. The Essence of Joy touched my heart with its compelling stories of forgiveness woven against the backdrop of the aromas mentioned throughout the Bible - frankincense, myrrh, cedarwood, cinnamon... Patricia Bradley, Award-winning author, Logan Point Series and the Memphis Cold Case novels A Must Read! In The Essence of Joy , Lynn Watson intertwines Scripture with the uses of oils and spices mentioned in the Bible. I was left with a feeling of wonder, a new way of looking at God's word. The book is educational, entertaining, and uplifting. There's history, fun-facts, even recipes. The author brings devotionals to a new level, giving biblical insight to the problems modern women encounter today. The Essence of Joy is perfect for both bible study groups and those who are just starting out on their spiritual journey. Jeri McBryde, Eight-Time Contributing Author to Chicken Soup for the Soul It's fascinating to follow how fragrances and spices were used in the Bible. These will have more meaning to me now. Some of these verses I've read time after time and haven't noticed the connections. The simple traditions we take part in have so much history that I didn't know. Rhonda Moody, Women's Ministry Associate, First West Church, West Monroe, LA The Essence of Joy utilizes all five senses to bring the truths of God's word to life. Watson weaves relatable stories that would appeal to the inexperienced Bible reader as well as life-long Christians. She reveals lesser known facts about Biblical scents that will enrich your study of the Bible. Great Read!! Michelle Hammons, former Chairman Children's Ministry Committee at Second Presbyterian Church (Memphis, TN), Bible Study Fellowship Small Group Leader, and Happy Christian Woman Lynn Watson combines many years' experience in women's ministry, love of essential oils, and her passion for God's word to bring her readers freshly inspired encouragement for their walk with Jesus. Her devotional, The Essence of Courage, was recognized as a 'must read' by regional publishing industry leaders. Married since 1973, Lynn and Steve have filled their Bartlett, Tennessee home with handmade treasures and lots of love for family, especially their five beautiful (of course) grandchildren. Aromas of freshly baked bread often fill Lynn's kitchen. Jasmine, her tuxedo kitty, enjoys sleeping in Lynn's lap while she writes.