Showing posts with label trials. Show all posts
Showing posts with label trials. Show all posts

Sunday, June 4, 2017

This Life I Live by Rory Feek

This Life I Live: One Man's Extraordinary, Ordinary Life and the Woman Who Changed It Forever

This Life I Live: One Man's Extraordinary, Ordinary Life and the Woman Who Changed It Forever

The love story that captured the heart of the nation

Joey and Rory Feek were enjoying a steadily growing fan base in country music when Joey was diagnosed unexpectedly with a rapidly spreading cancer. This vibrant and beautiful young woman would soon be on a unique journey for which no one is ever fully prepared. Her husband, Rory, and children, Heidi, Hopie, and Indiana, were beside her each step of the way. Rory, a prolific songwriter, entrepreneur, farmer, and overall tender man, has seen God bless his life in countless unexpected ways and had started a blog, thislifeilive.com, not really knowing its purpose other than he needed to write. That purpose soon became clearer when Joey’s cancer battle hit.

By inviting so many into the final months of Joey’s life, this astounding couple captured the hearts of millions with their powerful love story, the manner in which they were handling the diagnosis, and the inspiring simple way they had chosen to live their lives.

In this vulnerable book, Rory takes us into his own challenging life story and shows what can happen when God brings both his presence and the right companion into our lives. He also gives never-before-revealed details on what he calls “the long goodbye,” the blessing of being able to know that life is going to end and taking advantage of it. Feek shows how we all are actually there already and how we can learn to live that way every day. He then goes into detail toward the end of the book on what it’s like to try to move on with your life once you’ve “had it all.”  



 I had never heard of Rory and Joey Feek (having only become interested in country-style music recently) so I began this autobiography/memoir excited to get to know this couple. From the first few chapters, I was deeply interested. As I continued in the book, I couldn't wait to listen to their music and watch their videos. This book is a remarkable and touching story. But it is more than that. It is a wonderful testimony to God's work of salvation in Rory's life and the strength and faith which resulted. I love how this book shows a distinct Before and After. And it is obvious that the Rory in the Before was a totally different man than the Rory in the After. His testimony of salvation is bold and victorious. And he has so much joy and hope even after the loss of his beautiful and loving wife Joey. This book is a must-read. Men and women alike will love and learn from the story in this new book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Thursday, April 6, 2017

Help sponsor me as I raise money for Joni and Friends this Saturday!!!

    I am so grateful God created me able to move and run and dance and work hard. My goal is to glorify Him with my mobility and to help others who don't have as much strength or ability to move!

Thus, I was so excited when I heard about an event which will help Joni and Friends- an organization which supports disabled children and adults! This Saturday I will be walking for hours in order to help raise money for Joni and Friends! But I need sponsors, in order to make my walking actually raise money for this organization! PLEASE consider sponsoring me (even a little bit helps!) as I participate in this event THIS SATURDAY April 8th! Thank you so much!

My fundraising page

Monday, March 20, 2017

And Still She Laughs: Defiant Joy in the Depths of Suffering by Kate Merrick


And Still She Laughs: Defiant Joy in the Depths of Suffering
And Still She Laughs: Defiant Joy in the Depths of Suffering
Kate Merrick faced the crippling grief that life can bring when her five-year-old daughter was diagnosed with cancer. Three and a half years of suffering followed, accompanied by fervent prayer, hospital stays, emotional agony, and teeth-grinding fear. And in the end, her baby girl was gone.


How was Kate to believe again, to hope again? To find out, she turned to stories in the Bible of real women who dealt with pain and survived. How did Sarah, after twenty-five years of achingly empty arms, learn in the end to laugh without bitterness? How did Bathsheba, defiled by the king who then had her husband killed, come to walk in strength and dignity, to smile without fear of the future?


In And Still She Laughs, Merrick writes poignantly and transparently about finding joy in sorrow and shows how we—just like the ordinary women seen in the Bible—can rise above unbearable circumstances and live fully. In the middle of whatever hardships we face, we can smile, cry, and come away full—laughing without fear and eagerly looking for what is to come.

Sunday, January 15, 2017

review of When There Is No Miracle by Robert L Wise

When There Is No Miracle: Finding Hope in Pain and SufferingWhen There Is No Miracle: Finding Hope in Pain and Suffering by




You don't always need a miracle to find light in times of darkness
Heartbreak is impartial. Tragedies--global and personal--strike every day. Destruction, anxiety, and catastrophe have become our daily companions.

Over his long career, Robert Wise has been on the front lines of disaster. From the Oklahoma City bombing to 9/11's ground zero to the bedsides of lost loved ones, Wise has stood on tragic ground and ministered to those who have lost seemingly everything. Each of those hurting people asked the same questions: Why do the innocent suffer? Why doesn't God deliver the light of miracles in the darkest times?

In the midst of his own questioning, Wise has discovered some surprising and encouraging answers. In this book, he shares those lessons, encouraging all those who struggle. You'll learn some unexpected positive benefits of pain and suffering, and see how God is always behind the scenes working for the ultimate good--even when you can't see or imagine how.

Friday, July 22, 2016

When there are no easy answers by John S Feinberg

When There Are No Easy Answers: Thinking Differently about God, Suffering, and Evil
Yet again, I am blessed to read and review a wonderful book on suffering and triumph through faith in Jesus! When There Are No Easy Answers is a book by a man who had to learn to see God's love and mercy through trial and suffering. In 1987 his beloved wife was diagnosed with an incurable, genetically transmitted disease. They were immediately challenged in their faith and their approach to God's goodness in the face of the evil of suffering. 
In the months and years following the initial discovery of Mrs. Feignberg's chronic illness, the couple  discovered just how little their Christian community understood about how to support people in crisis. One of the goals in this paperback is to open the eyes of Christians as to the importance of having the right perspective on suffering and the heart to help others through their times of trial.
I recommend this book for those who are going through suffering, have experienced it in the past and perhaps especially for those who, like me have never gone through anything major. 
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. 

How can a God of love allow terrible things to happen in our lives?Christians often assume they're equipped to deal with tragedy if it enters their lives, but like most people, think it never really will. What happens, then, when we follow God's will to the best of our abilities and heartbreak strikes? Do we mean it when we implore "Have Thine own way, Lord" or does that only apply in times of blessings or small, manageable hurts?

When There Are No Easy Answers considers the problem of grief from every angle, just as the Feinbergs walked through it in their journey. It confronts the question of justice, examines the nature of God, and argues for the reality of grace. Feinberg explores the biblical reasons against the use of traditional cliches and platitudes, especially by those in ministry, and lays out alternatives that can actually comfort and encourage the person who is struggling or grieving.

Thursday, May 19, 2016

Review of Hunting Hope by Nika Maples

Hunting Hope: Dig Through the Darkness to Find the Light

Hunting Hope: Dig Through the Darkness to Find the Light

When I got this book from the publisher to review, I didn't know how good it would be! The cover design, although interesting, doesn't reflect how real and life-changing the text of the book is! 
To begin, I must point out that this book is not Nika Maples' autobiography as I expected. However, it will not disappoint and is definitely worth reading whether or not you have read her previous book describing her difficult time with lupus and then a massive stroke at age 20! In fact, after reading Hunting Hope, you, like me will feel more inclined to check out Nika's first book which explains everything she's been through. 
Hunting Hope really is one of the best books I've ever read on this topic. Ms. Maples writes with clarity and wisdom, keeping everything in balance. It's hard to explain, the excitement and awe I feel when I come across books like this. I felt like Nika really speaks to my heart; convicting me even while understanding what I'm going through! She has a deep faith in the Lord and makes sure she honours and glorifies God throughout her book. 
One aspect which I loved and didn't expect of this book is Nika's journey towards understanding her singleness; this really spoke to me since I, like Nika wanted to be married and have a family and, like Nika never got to! Her journey to understanding God's will for her life was wonderful and reminded me that I do have a lot even without my biggest dream. 
Of course, even if you are married, this book will still change your life. Read it! And I assure you, I don't say that about every book I read. 
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 
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Hunting Hope Nika Maples

Sunday, May 8, 2016

My review of Hope Heals: A True Story of Overwhelming Loss and an Overcoming Love by Katherine Wolf, Jay Wolf

Hope Heals: A True Story of Overwhelming Loss and an Overcoming Love

Hope Heals: A True Story of Overwhelming Loss and an Overcoming Love

Yet again, I am blessed to read and review a wonderful book on suffering and triumph through faith in Jesus! Hope Heals is a very interesting autobiography with perspectives from both Jay and Katherine Wolf. It is in depth without being boring and captures the trauma and trial of their long journey since the stroke.  In 2008, Katherine was a healthy, happy 26-year old married to Jay and mother of 6-month old James when suddenly and without human reason, she experienced a colossal stroke. Through the providence of God, her life was saved but with her left side permanently paralyzed and a myriad of hurdles to overcome before enjoying a more normal life again! This book is strong and full of the couple's faith. I love how Katherine is honest and shares her moments of doubt and despair and confusion over God's perfect will. Yet, what I also love is her unshakable trust in God which has led her to embrace the life He has chosen to give her. 
I highly recommend this book for those who are going through suffering, have experienced it in the past and who, like me have never gone through anything major. 
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. 

Thursday, May 5, 2016

My review of the book Colors of Goodbye by September Vaudrey

Colors of Goodbye: A Memoir of Holding On, Letting Go, and Reclaiming Joy in the Wake of Loss

Colors of Goodbye: A Memoir of Holding On, Letting Go, and Reclaiming Joy in the Wake of Loss

What happens "after" the worst happens?
Before May 31, 2008, September Vaudrey's life was beautiful. But on that day, with one phone call from the ER, her whole world--everything she knew and believed--was shaken to the core. Katie, her 19-year-old artist daughter, had been in a car accident and would not survive. How does a family live in the wake of devastating tragedy? When darkness colors every moment, is it possible to find light? Can God still be good, even after goodbye?
  How can my words describe the beauty and value of this book? From the first chapter, I knew this book would be a favourite of mine. As I read, my first impression was not unfounded. This book really, really touched my heart. As I read the saga within, my heart ached for the family who lost their beloved and unforgettable 19-year old Katie! Yet, even while my heart was weeping, I sensed the great peace and joy that this family had, which can only come from a relationship with Jesus Christ! Since this book is penned by the mother of Katie, it is raw and real. I have never experienced loss like this and I want to prepare my heart and faith for such a time. So, I read books like this and come away feeling amazed by the faith God gives His children in times of grief. I highly, highly recommend this book for everyone- man or woman, untouched or shadowed by trials. Whether God has already given you strength to make it through a hard time, or you have no idea how you're going to get through another day, you need to read this book. 
The author, September Vaudrey is incredibly honest and open. Yet, at the same time she is not self-absorbed, proud or asking for pity. She writes- in a beautiful style- the whole truth of her and her family's time of grief and it really gives a picture of true sorrow and the love God bestows on them to get them through it. Do not miss this beautiful and God-glorifying book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

 

Monday, March 21, 2016

Book review: Finding God in the Ruins: How God Redeems Pain by Matt Bays

Finding God in the Ruins: How God Redeems Pain

Finding God in the Ruins: How God Redeems Pain

I love reading books about suffering because they help me grasp an idea of what life should be. They make my problems shrink to insignificant shadows and give me a bigger heart for others. I have been blessed to read (and review) several which I learned from and recommend: And It Was Beautiful, The Hardest Peace, Another Valley Another Victory, Bronner, and Soaring Above the Circumstances. I expected this book to be similar but not too far into the book I sensed that the author has a very different theology than the Bible teaches. By the time I got to the following quote I was extremely alarmed! 
''God's own story was full of disorder, his past every bit messed up as mine. And when God saw how out of control things had gotten, he sent his son to clean things up.'' 
No true Christian can ever say this of God! I'm sorry, but there is no excuse for such a statement.
Early on in the book, the author kind of laughs about the fact that he went forward at his church to ''be saved'' on a dare and honestly states that he was not saved then. Unfortunately, Matt Bays never again mentions his salvation and never gives the reader any assurance that he indeed found redemption later on! In fact, he is quite honest about his sinful life growing up (following the response to the altar call at age 8 or so) and he is also honest that while he was a pastor and song leader he had major doubts. It's as if he is boasting of his doubt and confusion. What kind of Christianity would that be? Sorry, but when God saves, He saves completely. We are not made perfect, but we are regenerated and with the Holy Spirit dwells within us. Before we were dead and now we are made alive and there is no way a true believer can say such things as the following quotes from ''Finding God in the Ruins'': 
''God's own story was full of disorder, his past every bit messed up as mine. And when God saw how out of control things had gotten, he sent his son to clean things up.'' 
''Sometimes when I've said all I've need to say, God says back to me, ''I'm sorry for all you've gone through, Matthew.'' And then when I've accused him and spoken the kind of words that would make your blood run cold, he's simply said, ''Are you finished?'' This natural back-and-forth is our relationship...''

''...I wonder if God's basement is also crowded with those of us he doesn't trust- you know, the fringy sort who pretend things are good, who never trust the relationship enough to speak up and tell him the truth. Maybe God liked Job and David best because they were honest with him. Afraid? Probably. But not too afraid to tell him exactly what they thought or write songs that accused him and put him on trial. .....maybe he longs to hear our hearts speak out in pain, even if in the end we blame him. ''


''God's own story was full of disorder, his past every bit messed up as mine. And when God saw how out of control things had gotten, he sent his son to clean things up.''
BLASPHEMOUS!!!
Another reviewer of this book also noted the following which likewise upset me as I read the book: there are parts of his story that bother me. He was in pastoral work, leading worship, during many of the years of his doubt. He says he would lead songs for the congregation yet not believe what he was singing. He performed a wedding for his cancer ridden sister and her live-in boyfriend when the divorce from her previous husband had not been finalized. Bays says he felt they were already married in God's eyes so performed the ceremony.
Bays quotes Psalm 44, saying David calls God a liar and a cheat. There was no reference in my galley so I did some research and found the reference of Psalm 44:11-12. I cannot find any translation that is even close to what Bays says it says. Not The Message, not the NLT.

Immediately upon reading this book, I put up some quick comments and direct quotes from the book while I pondered how to write my review. 
ONE OF THE MOST BLASPHEMOUS BOOKS I HAVE EVER READ. VERY DISAPPOINTED. FULL REVIEW TO COME. SOME SHOCKING QUOTES FROM THE BOOK BELOW: (I inserted quotes which are shared earlier in this review)

THAT IS NOT THE GOSPEL! THAT IS A LIE. BLASPHEMY. EVERY QUOTE I HAVE SHARED HERE IS OPPOSITE OF WHAT THE BIBLE TEACHES ABOUT GOD!

Matt Bays, the author of ''Finding God in the Ruins'' responded to my thoughts as following:

I'm sorry you didn't like the book, Mazzou. I sincerely am. My hope is to come alongside the broken of this world - those who are hurting so deeply, so they will know they are not alone. Many people (and you may not know this yet) are so angry with God and feel they cannot express it. They have been through unspoken cruelties and walked away from their faith because they were afraid to be honest with God about their pain. Who will reach out to them? They are not responding to the sanitized and easy answers so many of our churches are providing. If you read the Psalms you will find David calling God a cheat and a liar. "You've deceived us," he says to God. Yet he WASN'T considered blasphemous...but instead called "a man after God's own heart." I do respect your opinion, and I know it's not an easy book...but if Finding God in the Ruins is blasphemous, you'd have to call the book of Psalms and the book of Job blasphemous as well. God restored a murdering, broken King David, who hurled insults his way more than once. He can (and has) restored me as well. Peace and love, and so many good things.

In response to these comments; I don't really see David hurling insults at God. Many of the Psalms begin with a desperate tone because David was human and also, as he lived before Christ, he did not have the indwelling Holy Spirit. However- David usually ends such Psalms with turning to God as His source of strength, hope and joy! And let me emphasize: David did NOT call God a ''cheat and a liar''. That may be a crazy misunderstanding from reading ''The Message''; when I find out I will update this review! In fact, David DID say the following...
Passion for your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me. (Psalm 69:9)

As for people who are hurting- they NEED a perfect, sovereign God! If God is made human-like and if we can simply treat him like our younger brother what strength can we find in Him? We need an infallible, unchanging, eternal God WHO MAKES NO MISTAKES to serve and worship and rely on. I'm sorry if people are offended by that- there are churches which are mistaken on various things; there are people who call themselves Christians yet who aren't and therefore cause more harm than good to unbelievers; there are Christians who have not learned to love like Christ loved. But that is no excuse for these broken people. They are responsible before God and if they turn away, they simply weren't His! I can only hope that those broken people would find true Christians who can help them.


I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.


Monday, March 7, 2016

And It Was Beautiful: Celebrating Life in the Midst of the Long Good-Bye by Kara Tippetts

And It Was Beautiful: Celebrating Life in the Midst of the Long Good-Bye

And It Was Beautiful: Celebrating Life in the Midst of the Long Good-Bye

by 



This book is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful books I have ever read. I had never read more than a couple of posts on Kara's rich blog so the content of this book was entirely new and wonderful to me.
I had previously read and reviewed Kara's book The Hardest Peace as well as Just Show Up, written by both Kara Tippetts and friend Jill Lynn Buteyn. These books touched my heart deeply and left me wanting to learn more from this strong Christian woman.
Inspiring and enriching, this small paperback book compiles in chronological order many of the best and most impactful posts and thoughts from Kara's blog, Mundane Faithfulness.  Reading it was like getting a glimpse into the heart of a true Christ-follower. Kara found her joy and strength in Jesus and wasn't afraid to show it. This small book left me desiring to embrace each day and live it more fully, for the Lord!
For those who are wondering, this book is wonderful to read on its own or along with Kara Tippet's previous books and/or blog.


I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

A Widow's Might: The Secret of Finding Strength in God

I know it may sound odd initially, but I love and collect books about suffering- specifically autobiographies. And especially autobiographies about Christians who find their strength in God through their suffering. These books teach me so much about life and faith and give me a bigger picture of life! All the comparatively little things which worry and bother me just disappear as I read books such as these. And I feel ashamed that I could ever think my lot in life was difficult! Thus, I always come away more grateful for what I have and more intentional in living my daily life! 
A Widow's Might is another such book. It is an autobiography by Judy Knox which tells of her time of suffering as she waited for her husband to heal only to find that he would never be going  home with her.  Judy has a wonderful grasp that her husband did go to his eternal home which gives her great peace and that is awesome to read about. I hope to someday have such peace! This whole book is a testimony of God's faithfulness and the strength one can find in Him. 
I recommend this book especially for widows and those going through suffering as well as people living in comparative ease and safety!
Overall, this book wasn't as life-changing as other autobiographies I have read but it was very good nevertheless.
I also didn't agree with all the doctrine which the author believes but that is up to you, the reader to discern. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Friday, February 5, 2016

My Name is Mahtob book review

My Name Is Mahtob: The Story that Began the Global Phenomenon Not Without My Daughter ContinuesMany of your know of the movie ''Not Without My Daughter''- this is a companion book to that bestseller, an autobiography written by the daughter herself. For the first time, read in print the thoughts and feelings and drama of the life Mahtob lived both during the time in Iran and afterwards. See how this traumatic experience changed her and shaped her. This book is an autobiography but it also raises awareness for several social situations. Last but not least, it is a testimony to the author's Lutheran faith. It also is a wonderful example of how a hurt human being can, with God's help work hard and achieve success despite the troubles endured as a child. Since I have never watched the film Not Without My Daughter or read the book, I can assure  all interested readers that this book is worth reading on its own as well. However, now that I have read this book I look forward to reading Not Without My Daughter as well!

The first half or so of this book flowed really well but I found that the remainder of the book was slower. It didn't quite drag, but it didn't have the same consistency and order as the first half. The last portion was more a scattering of thoughts and feelings with no obvious chronological order.

Note: Although the book tries to bring out the author's faith, it will not offend readers of any religion. This is an autobiography and can be read simply as such.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Monday, January 11, 2016

Book review: Soaring Above the Circumstances by Dean Kilmer

Soaring Above the Circumstances
Soaring Above the Circumstances 
by 
This is really a wonderful little book! I was able to read it in one evening and benefited greatly from it. The author captures the reader's attention from the first page, bringing them into the story and making them open their heart to other sufferers! Whether you are going through great trials or minor (such as myself), this book will help you and uplift your heart. The goal of this book is to bring the reader's eyes towards Jesus, and it certainly does just that. After reading the chapters contained within this little book, I couldn't stop seeing my blessings and praising God for them! I also felt miserable about all the times I complain although my trials are really nothing in comparison to other's!

My only regret with this little paperback is that it was too short! Also, I wish it had more discussion and study questions or a study guide to go with it! However, I am not suffering terribly and therefore have time and power to do studies. Not all readers will have the means for further study. 

With its small size and easy-to-read length, this book would make a perfect gift for someone suffering from an illness or going through any kind of trial. Man or woman, young or old, cared for or neglected, this book will reach and comfort a variety of individuals. Also, I will note that although this book is convicting it is very uplifting and even the most grumpy and unthankful suffererer won't be offended if you give them this book yet will probably- if it is the Lord's will- be changed by this book! 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you!

Book review of Bronner: A Journey to Understand by Sherri Burgess 2016

Bronner: A Journey to UnderstandBronner: A Journey to Understand 
by 
The story cannot help but capture the heart and emotions of the reader. My heart wept for the mother and family and friends of Bronner. Yet, as the mother and author of the book would desire, I got a wonderful sense of God's presence and faithfulness and plan amidst the trial. This book is a marvelous testimony of God's love and faithfulness. Truly, Bronner's tragic tale will bring you closer to Christ. This book wasn't as preparatory for trials as I would have desired and it isn't entirely a book for healing after a tragedy...it is a testimony of God's goodness through tragedy and I think that is what the author wished her book to be. 

Life-changing book: Another Valley, Another Victory by Valetta Steel Crumley

Another Valley, Another Victory: Three Tragedies, One Faithful Woman, Victory in Jesus

Another Valley, Another Victory: Three Tragedies, One Faithful Woman, Victory in Jesus


This might not be on the top-selling list on Amazon and it may not be published by a well-known company, but it certainly is a must-read! 
  From the first page of this slim paperback book to the last I was captured by the story. I read this book in one Sunday afternoon and was so blessed by it. 
The author is Valetta Steel Crumley and this is both her autobiography and testimony of God's love and faithfulness. Without revealing the entire story, I will say that Valetta went through three major crises which I can't imagine having to suffer. It is also overwhelming to try to comprehend why she of all women should have not only one tragedy but three happen to her. This book is a must-read because of the perspective, depth and faith Valetta had and learned through those trials. It is also a good example and witness to read what the author went on and did following the pain and sorrow in her life. As you read this book, your whole view of life and why we are here will be changed for the better. This book is an amazing testimony to God's faithfulness and amazing love!
I really do recommend this book! It definitely changed my perspective on my life, which is so easy compared to the author's! Read this wonderful book. 
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.