WELCOME BACK ~ well, at least I’m back from a bit of a break. I’ve been moving and getting settled. From now on, though, I hope to be much more consistent with my entries.
For one thing, I’m adding book reviews to my blog. A few months ago, I joined Book Sneeze. It’s a program offered by Thomas Nelson Publishers that allows me to request and receive a copy of some of their recently released selections. In exchange, I agree to read the book in its entirety, then review it on my blog and post a copy of Amazon. If you’d like to look into it for yourself, click on their link.
Beautiful Things Happen When a Woman Trusts Godis my first Book Sneeze book. Written by Sheila Walsh, the content of the book comes down to trust; learning to trust God with the good, the bad and the ugly in our lives. From the beginning, Ms Walsh shares some of the darkest times in her life, such as spending time in a facility to receive treatment for clinical depression. Some people don’t want to hear such things about Christians, let alone about anyone in leadership.
But I say, kudos to her for being brave enough to share her weakness with anyone who is willing to listen! It is through our weakness that the Lord’s strength is made perfect in us. There is also freedom when we are able to be honest and not hide behind a mask of religious perfectionism. I believe this book will also shine a light for others who are looking for a way to escape their fears and feelings of inadequacy.
Because Sheila has walked through so many of the same things many of us face, she is well-qualified to offer a hand up, as it were. Whether you’re having a bad day or a bad life, her writings offer encouragement and point the way to the heart of God for us. And for those who are in a place of peace, who have perhaps dealt with many of their own difficult issues in life, then I would suggest this book as a great reference to use in understanding and helping your friends.
I highly recommend Beautiful Things, no matter what stage of your Christian walk you find yourself in today. The Bible study included at the back of the book can be used individually or with a group of friends.
“When I stand before the Lamb of God and finally look into Jesus’ eyes, I want my life to have become a thing of beauty – not because I got it all right, but because with all my heart, I trusted God.” (pg 228). It’s all about trust.
