UpWords, is a new devotional book rooted in the powerful questions Jesus asked in the Gospels. Authored by Southern Nazarene University (SNU) President, Dr. Keith Newman, the book invites readers into a daily rhythm of reflection and response. Drawing from the questions Jesus posed during His ministry, the book encourages individuals to pause, look up, listen, and discover the guidance, purpose, and power available through Christ. Each devotional entry is crafted to prompt personal growth and deeper spiritual insight.
“Jesus didn’t ask questions because He needed answers,” says Newman. “He asked them to awaken something in us. UpWords is a journey of discovering what those questions reveal about who we are—and who God is calling us to be.”
Founded in 1899, SNU is located in Bethany, Oklahoma, and offers education from PreK through graduate programs, including a Doctorate in Education Administration Leadership. Dr. Newman, the 15th president of SNU, has provided leadership of the university since 2017. A former Houston Police Department Homicide Detective, Pastor in the Church of the Nazarene, and long-time university administrator, Dr. Newman is a passionate storyteller, and he believes that God is at work in every person’s story. His first book, LiveLast (2018), is based on Jesus’ teaching in Mark 9:35 and challenges readers to embrace a life of servant leadership. His second book, Call Home (2023), explores the Lord’s Prayer through the lens of devotional reflection.
UpWords, like his previous works, is written to inspire and equip readers in their faith journey. Every dollar from the sale of these three books supports student scholarships at Southern Nazarene University.
To purchase UpWords, LiveLast, or Call Home, visit https://www.snu.edu/administration/president/