"Hidden in a List" by Marlene Houk ... and a GIVEAWAY!

Stop by to learn about this book and enter to win a copy (print - US only or electronic).

https://wp.me/pbwWRr-kx

"Empty Out the Negativity" by Joel Osteen

My review...

I'm currently reading this book, but I'm excited about it and wanted to post my review based on the first few chapters. This is a much-needed book, particularly for this year!

I've read a number of Joel's book, and I always find them encouraging and inspiring. This one was no exception. It always feels like I'm chatting with Joel over a hot cup of tea (since I don't like coffee!). He makes the reader feel like he's a good friend speaking right to them, right where they are. 

Today's society is full of negativity. It bombards us daily, from social media to the newspapers to TV. It's hard to stay positive when you take that in on a regular basis. 

This book is a bit shorter than some of Osteen's prior books, but it's still filled with wisdom and encouragement. It's one I'll likely read through more than once. There are practical tips for identifying and removing negativity from your life. I'm a Type A, anxious person to begin with, so this book is just what I needed to read! I can't wait to put some of the tips into action to help stop the anxious thoughts from the get-go. 

Chapters include: Empty Out the Negative, Power Thinking, A Fresh Attitude, Drop It, The Right Recording, and The Power of the Soil.

Some of my favorite quotes include:

- "You control what you think about and what you choose to allow in."

- "You weren't created to carry around guilt, regret, bitterness, and anger--that poisons your life."

- "Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror, being down on yourself, living in regrets."

- "Are your thoughts helping you or hurting you?"

- "If you don't set the tone for the day, negative thoughts will do it for you."

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

"Quiet Time with God Devotional" by Joyce Meyer

 

My review...

I love devotional books. I've read a few from Meyer, and I've always found them insightful and encouraging.

As is typical with devotional books, this one has a verse, devotion, and a final thought. This book also includes additional verses to look up in order to "dig deeper" into God's Word. I appreciate this addition, as it's not common with many devotional books.

It stated for the calendar, which I liked, and its compact size, making it quite portable. I do wish there had been a ribbon marker. This book makes a wonderful addition to my daily devotional time, as I agree with what Meyer says in the introduction: "Without a doubt, the very best time you can spend each day is time with God."

The primary Bible version used is the Amplified version, though there are some from the NIV and NKJV, as well.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

First Line Friday

Happy Friday! It's time for First Line Friday, hosted by Hoarding Books.

It's time to grab the book nearest to you and leave a comment with the first line. Today on First Line Friday, I'm featuring the latest release (nonfiction) from Carolanne Miljavac, She Laughs.

And the first line is (from Chapter 1)...

I woke up late as usual to the sound of my mama threatening my life if I stayed in bed one minute longer: "Git up and git ready before I drag you out of bed by your ankle bone!"

About the book...

In the face of...

Poverty. Grief. Brokenness. Disaster. 

Hopeless Situations. Life's Struggles.

She Laughs!

Join CA Miljavac on a journey of joy.

She believes with all her heart that laughter is a gift, providing a sliver of distraction from whatever struggle you might be facing ... relief when you need rescuing ... hope in the midst of hardship.

Though her life has been dotted with disaster, it's through laughter that she found the strength and courage to persevere ... joy for the journey. And she'll help you discover all the ways laughter can carry you through your own painful situations. 

In ten laugh-till-you-cry chapters, Miljavac shares how laughter has been an essential and valuable part of her own healing, plus hilarious true stories will help you get started on the path to a life of peace and joy. 

She Laughs. And you can too!

Let me know the first line of the book closest to you and then head over to Hoarding Books to see who else is participating.

If you're a blogger or just a social media-er, we'd love for you to join us, too!

"She Laughs: Choosing Faith Over Fear" by Carolanne Miljavac

My review...

I have never read anything by this author, but that will certainly change in the future! This book is so relatable (and funny!) that I had a hard time setting it aside.

The author is very open in sharing her personal stories and experiences, from serious to cringe-inducing. It almost felt like sitting at lunch with a close friend. Miljavac is upfront about her struggles. She’s honest and raw, which is why I’ll recommend this book to many of my friends, particularly those who are looking for some encouragement and struggling with fear. This is one book I’m likely to read again.

There were so many quotes that struck a chord with me. Here are just a few:

• “Once a stronghold of insecurity gets into your head, it is really tough to overcome.”
• “The hardest times in your life set you up for the deepest impact.”
• “Nothing changes if nothing changes.”
• “Fear isn’t going anywhere. But whether it controls you is up to you.”
• “Your ability to laugh is precious. Fight for it.”
• “Living according to other people’s expectations will weaken the purpose for which you’ve been created.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, but I wasn’t required to leave a review.

Amazon purchase link

"Take the Day Off" by Robert Morris

My review...

When I read the book description, I knew this book was one I had to read. This is such a timely book ... just the reminder I needed to hear at this point in my life. It's very hard for me to "just be" and take time for rest, but Morris pointed out things that made me realize how I need to add this to my schedule ASAP before complete burnout occurs. 

Morris's book is helpful and easy to understand. There are some chapters that I will go back over from time to time, whenever I need the reminders. The book changed my perspective on rest. It's quite different than society's misguided perception (for example, that resting - laziness). 

The foreword is by Max Lucado, another author who writes books that strike a chord with me. Scripture verses are woven throughout, along with relatable stories. 

One quote that really stuck out to me: 

"Work is not the enemy. The temptation to not rest is the enemy."

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"A Small Book for the Anxious Heart: Meditations on Fear, Worry, and Trust" by Edward T. Welch

My review...

If you struggle with anxiety, stress, or fear, this could be a helpful book to check out.

The book has fifty readings, somewhat devotional in nature. The book covers a variety of topics, such as: fear, loneliness, forgiveness, prayer, grace, hope, death, and various Psalms. Unlike a standard devotional, the passages don't begin with a Scripture verse, but relevant verses are included in the message. Each entry ends with a response question for reflection or journaling. I read an electronic copy of the book, and it has a clickable Table of Contents, which makes it easy for the reader to choose the topics that interest them, in case they do not want to read the book in order.  The information provided contains practical action steps to help the reader keep their anxiety in check.

Some quotes that stuck out to me:

•  "Anything of value comes through perseverance."
•  "Our anxieties want relief now, and God's promises do not guarantee an easier life. He promises a full and abundant life, not an easy one."
• "'I am with you' is the gift to anxious people."

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the Read with Audra program, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"New Every Morning: 365 Days of Worship"

My review...

I love devotional books, so I was excited to review this book, which is a compilation of devotions written by various worship pastors, university professors, and ministers of music. The book is designed for use with individuals, as well as worship teams, making it unique from other devotional books I’ve read in the past.

The setup is pretty standard, as each entry starts with a Scripture passage, a message, reflection questions, and a prayer. It also gives brief information on the person who penned the devotion. The book is organized by week of the year vs. a specific date on the calendar, so you can start it at any time. I liked the variety of entries, but I didn’t care for the super-small print, which would narrow the audience for this book. I was also surprised that it didn’t contain a ribbon bookmark, which is quite common in devotional books.

Some titles include: Worship as an Act of Sacrifice, Be Still and Worship, Seeing Clearly through Blind Spots, He Sings Over Me, Let God Lead, and What? Me Worry?

Some verses used include: Isaiah 6:8, Psalm 46:10, Proverbs 19:21, and Mark 12:30.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Purchase link

"Here, Now" by Kate Merrick

My review...

I’ve never read anything by Merrick before, but I thought this one sounded interesting. I found Merrick’s writing to be relatable, with real-life examples that will resonate with many readers. This book may cause the reader to reflect on their daily life and determine where they need to disconnect in order to engage more fully in other areas. A key reminder is to focus on the moment versus worrying about missing out on something. The author talks frequently in the book about her belief that readers should get rid of social media, as it pulls us in so many directions instead of giving us peace. This concept could be of interest to some readers, but it may not sit as well with others in today’s society, where so many feel the need to be connected all the time (though that’s exactly why some concepts in this book are important). At times, it felt like the author got a bit off-topic before coming back around, making some parts feel like filler information to reach a certain word count. I do think there are some important takeaways in this book, but I was a bit surprised that it didn’t include any reflection questions or journal prompts.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from BookLook Bloggers, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Click here to read the first chapter and see the book trailer.

Amazon purchase link

About the author...

Kate Merrick writes, speaks, and helps plant churches. Although she turned away from social media at one time, you can now find out more and follow her blog at http://kmerrick.com/.

"She Dreams" by Tiffany Bluhm (Read with Audra blog tour) ... and a GIVEAWAY!

Say yes to the dreams God has planted in your heart.

Every woman was born to dream--to live a life of beauty, passion, adventure, and purpose. No matter how big or how small they are, our dreams push us to become women of courage, grace, and grit. God in His goodness breathes new dreams within our hearts and revives the dreams that have died, inviting us to trust Him as we dream impossible dreams that only He can bring to pass—because God not only gives dreams; He fulfills them.

In this six-we study we will look at Moses' journey to live out the God-sized dream given to him, exposing the ancient wisdom and truth God offers for every woman with a dream beating in her heart. With timely truth and encouraging accounts of God's heart and hand in the life of Moses as well is in the lives of ordinary women, author Tiffany Bluhm will dare you to dream the impossible dreams the Lord is stirring in your heart, reclaim and broken dreams, and trust God for the victory. Throughout the study will identify:

• The role of prayer as you grow into your dreams.
• The importance of obedience as you pursue what God has for you.
• Why your dreams are a blessing not only to you but also to others.
• How your failures can be a gift that help your dreams become a reality.
• The life-changing love, power, and wisdom of the Dream Giver.

Get ready to discover the role you are designed and destined to play as you partner with God for the impossible!

In addition to the book, there is a a Bible study guide with leader helps and DVD available.

Links to purchase

Read Chapter 1 for free

My review...

If you’re looking for a dose of inspiration to follow your dreams, then this book is for you!

Bluhm shares her personal stories, including her dreams and fears, and mixes in some Scripture verses and biblical stories to illustrate her points. In doing so, the author has made this book quite relatable to most, if not all, women, as so many put their dreams aside to take on other roles and help those around them reach their goals. Bluhm reminds the reader not to give up on their God-given dreams but to keep the faith and press forward. An associated study guide and DVD are also available.

Some of my favorite quotes are:

·        “Our messy moments aren’t the defining line of our story. They are merely twists in the narrative.”

·        “As we dream God-sized dreams, let’s refuse to be boxed in by labels or cultural norms that do not encourage us to be who God created us to be.”

·        “Knowing your why is critical to the life of your dreams, because without it you may be tempted to give up or give in when the going gets tough.”

·        “…trust that the Lord is still at work in the midst of the changes. Because He is.”

·        “As we pursue our God-sized dreams, it is imperative that we fight the urge to compare our beginning or middle with someone else’s later chapter in the story.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the Read with Audra blogger program, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About Tiffany...

Tiffany Bluhm, author of the She Dreams hey book and Bible study, is a speaker and writer who is passionate about helping women come to know their value and purpose because of a loving, redeeming God. In the style that speaks to women right where they are, she shares insights from a life spent chasing after Jesus while walking alongside women from suburbia to the inner-city, jails and brothels, and the slums of Kolkata. She speaks regularly at conferences and events and writes for a number of websites, print publications, and popular blogs, including the YouVersion Bible app, Deeply Rooted Magazine, and ScaryMommy.com. She lives in Tacoma, Washington, with her husband and two sons and blogs at TiffanyBluhm.com.

Learn more at www.SheDreamsBook.com

Where you can find her on social media...

Facebook (@TiffanyABluhm)

Twitter (@TiffanyABluhm)

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Made for This" by Jennie Allen

My review...

I’ve never read anything by this author, but I really liked the description (as well as the cover) of this book, so I was excited to have the chance to review it.

I love that this book is interactive! It’s designed to be used over the course of forty days, and there are passages, scripture verses, and reflection questions/activities for each day. Real stories and Biblical connections are used for each passage. I haven’t completed the book yet, as I’m spending more than a day on each reading/activity. It’s perfect for someone who wants a book that will make them think about their own story along the way.

Lots of people likely wonder about their purpose, and this book is designed to help the reader discover what God wants to accomplish in their life. I wish I’d received this prior to Lent, but it can be done at any time. Allen shares her own journey while encouraging the reader to answer and explore some challenging questions in order to find out their unique purpose. The book is divided into four sections: The Prayer, The Call, The Threads, and The Future. If you’re looking for a book that (may) pull you out of your comfort zone but encourage and inspire you, this is a devotional book to check out.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the HarperCollins BookLook Bloggers program, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"Exceptional You!" by Victoria Osteen

My review...

I’ve read a number of books by Joel and Victoria Osteen, so I was excited to read Victoria’s latest. I’m always encouraged by them, and this one didn’t disappoint.

Exceptional You focuses on how we see ourselves versus how we should see ourselves: through God’s eyes. To Him, we are anything but ordinary. We’re exceptional and a masterpiece, expertly gifted by Him.

The book is written so you feel that you’re chatting with a friend, sharing stories and encouraging one another. The book is organized into seven sections:

·        Know That You Are Chosen

·        Lift Up Your Eyes

·        Keep Your Memory Box Full

·        Travel Light

·        Love Well

·        Live in the Now

·        Power Up

Each chapter ends with bullet points (“Exceptional Thoughts”) highlighting key items from the chapter. Personal stories, Biblical examples, and Scripture verses are woven throughout. Overall, it provides the reader with a lot of food for thought. I have numerous notes that I’ll return to when I need a dose of encouragement, as there are so many solid nuggets of truths in this book, many of which remind the reader that words have power.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes:

·        “Where you’re going is much more important than where you’ve been.”

·        “You cannot undo your past, but you can do something about your present.”

·        “Don’t let your own voice of doubt drown out the voice of God.”

·        “Take your worry list and make it your prayer list.”

·        “You have something to offer that no one else can give.”

·        “The happiest people are those who appreciate the blessings in their lives and don’t underestimate their value.”

·         “Life is fragile. Find reasons to be grateful. They are always there is you look for them.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About Victoria...

Victoria Osteen is the co-pastor of Lakewood Church, the New York Times bestselling author of Love Your Life, and the host of a national weekly radio program, Victoria Osteen Live, on Sirius XM's Joel Osteen Radio. She is an integral part of each service at Lakewood as well as the "Night of Hope" events across the U.S. and abroad. She lives with her family in Houston, Texas.

The State of my TBR Pile

I have a confession, actually two, to make: I LOVE BOOKS! And I’m a book hoarder. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the state of my TBR pile is such that is almost has its own zip code! Of course, that’s a slight exaggeration, though my husband would tell you it’s not too far off, especially as he watches my books take over bookshelves, the chair and stool in my office, the corner of my desk, the couch, and even the stairs. (Thankfully, he can’t see how many are on my Kindle 😊) Actually, he’s a great sport and encourages my reading by taking me to various book signings and conferences, and he carries around all my books and swag. But, I digress…

What can I say? I’m an editor and reviewer, so I have a book in my hands (be it a physical copy or e-book) most of the time. I’m truly blessed to have a career that is a perfect match for me (and fuels my passion … and obsession).

I just love reading, and that’s reflected in the variety of books found in my TBR pile. While I read a lot of Christian fiction, my TBR pile also includes nonfiction and mainstream reads. A number of genres are represented, as well. I participate in a variety of launch teams, street teams, and blog tours, and those books are a large part of my TBR pile. I also review for magazines and publishers. I tend to organize my pile(s) by the deadline, such as the release date.

So, what books am I looking forward to reading, you ask? Let’s take a look at my condensed TBR pile (in no particular order):

·       Flight of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse: This is the second book in the series. I agreed to review the first book for the publisher, even though it was quite different from the books I normally read. Boy, am I glad I stepped out of my comfort zone! I loved it, and I rushed to find out when the sequel would be out. I also picked up other books by Busse, Tainted and Awakened, which are also fabulous! I was blessed to meet the author at a book signing, too!

·      The Tinderbox by Beverly Lewis: I’ve been reading Lewis’s books for as long as I can remember. She piqued my interest in Amish fiction, and it’s become one of my favorite genres to read. I’ve met Beverly twice, and she’s as charming as the characters she writes 😊 (She even agreed to speak to my mom on the phone as a Mother’s Day gift, which totally made my mom’s day … and made it tricky for me to top the next year!)

·       Chosen People by Robert Whitlow: So many things in the blurb grabbed me. I’ve read a couple of Whitlow’s books in the past, so I’m looking forward to reading his latest.

·       The Pages of Her Life by James Rubart: Rubart is one of my favorite authors. His stories never fail to draw me in and make me think about things I hadn’t considered before.

·       A Daughter’s Truth by Laura Bradford: I already mentioned that I’m a fan of Amish fiction. I’ve never read a full-length novel by Bradford, though I have read a novella.

·      

Burnout by Emily Nagoski (nonfiction): This is another book that pulled me in by the title and description. I think I’ll find the information quite useful.

·       Kill the Queen by Jennifer Estep: This one is different than many books I tend to read. However, I’ve realized over the past few years that it’s okay to step outside my comfort zone, and, in doing so, I’ve found a number of great books. From what I’ve heard about this book, I’m hoping that’s the case here.

·       The Tubman Command by Elizabeth Cobbs: I remember learning a bit about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, but I’ve never encountered a book quite like this one, which showcases the bravery and brilliance of an American icon.

·       Half Finished by Lauraine Snelling: I’ve read a few of Snelling’s books, but they’ve been historical novels, so I’m looking forward to seeing what she does with a contemporary tale that follows an ensemble of women/friends.

·       On Magnolia Lane by Denise Hunter: The is the third book in the charming “Blue Ridge” series. Need I say more? (And that cover looks so wonderful now, especially as I’m looking at snow out my window.)

·       The Medallion by Cathy Gohlke: I’ve read some of her books in the past, and they’re some of my favorite WWII-era books, so I’m excited about this one, which is inspired by true events from Poland.

What books are in your TBR pile? Hopefully, I’ve given you some suggestions to add to your list.

"Breakthrough" by Joyce Smith

My review...

This true story has been made into a movie, and it is a reflection of a miracle and the power of prayer.

Joyce Smith shares her personal story of when her son falls through the ice and his heart stops for an hour. Through it all, she believes and relies on the power of prayer, boldly asking God to save and heal her son.

Smith’s story is one that grabs you from the beginning and doesn’t let up, making this book a quick read. The faith message is prominent throughout the entire book, and the details allow the reader to clearly see God’s hand at work. The forward is written by John, the main character, and there’s an afterword by the pastor. Scripture references, John’s doctor’s letter, and an author’s note are also included and well worth reading.

If you are not a believer in Christ, this book may not be for you. Or, it may be just what you need to see the peace that can only be found through a relationship with Jesus and recognize that miracles still happen.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the FaithWords/FirstWords Blogger program, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"30 Days to Understanding the Bible" by Max Anders

My review...

Is it really possible to understand the Bible by spending just fifteen minutes a day for thirty days? Yes, it is!

I was a bit skeptical when I started reading this book. Granted, I haven’t memorized everything, but I now know far more about the Bible than I did. I read through things at a quicker pace than thirty days so I could review the book, but I will be going back through it again, one day at a time for a month.

Anders’s latest is packed with tons of information, but it’s presented in an easy-to-read format. For someone knew to Bible study, this book could prove to be invaluable. However, long-term believers will also benefit from using this guide. The author helps the reader see how everything fits together in a way they may not have noticed before. Repetition truly is the key, and that’s what’s provided in this book. The chapters are clear and concise, and everything is presented in small, manageable chunks. This is a great resource to add to my daily Bible study time.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and  Propeller/FlyBy Promotions, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

Promo video link

Official website

About Max Anders...

Dr. Max Anders is the author of over 25 books. He has taught on the college and seminary level and is a veteran pastor. Max was also one of the original team members with Walk Thru the Bible Ministries. He provides resources and discipleship strategies at MaxAnders.com to help people grow spiritually. 

"Simple Joys" by Candace Payne

My review...

Many people know Payne as "Chewbacca Mom," from the viral video. In her latest release, she infuses some of the joy found in that video in hopes of reminding the reader that we all struggle with being joyful (versus being discouraged or overwhelmed), but it is possible.

Overall, the book is a quick read that's easy to digest. The small size makes it extremely portable, and I really enjoyed the colorful illustrations throughout. The chapters are short and full of relatable stories and experiences. Each chapter ends with a place for the reader to journal about a question pertaining to the chapter, and there is a section at the end of the book for notes. Payne's humor is woven throughout this authentic book. 

Some of my favorite quotes include:

• "My hope is that you begin digging in unearthed places to discover pure joy..."
• "When you feel safe, you allow space for you."
• "Simple faith fuels extravagant joy."
• "The most underrated tool we have at our disposal to shift our atmosphere of anxiety to one of joy is to speak out the good times."
• "Simple joys are always found in both adventure and misadventure."
• 
  

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy at part of the BookLook Bloggers program, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"Into the Deep" by Lauren Gaskil (Read with Audra blog tour)

Q&A with Lauren...

Q: What inspired you to write your new book, Into the Deep: Diving into a Life of Courageous Faith?

A:  I should have drowned years ago. When the waves of anxiety, depression and chronic pain came crashing over me, the “faith” I’d been raised to practice couldn’t keep my head above the waves. But I didn’t drown. I’m still here. Because by God’s grace, in the undertow I discovered a deep faith in Jesus that saved me from sinking into the depths and catapulted me straight into His rescuing arms. He saved me from drowning, and my hope in writing this book is that He might use my story to help save others who feel like they are drowning too.

Q: When did you first experience bouts of anxiety? What were some of the situations that brought on the feelings of anxiousness?

 A:  I started experiencing anxiety in high school, after a traumatic event triggered panic attacks.

Q: You are very open about your struggle with chronic pain and the recurrent anxiety and depression that come along with it. How did your physical issues cause you to lose faith? Tell us about how you’ve learned to overcome these challenges.

A:  Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos is a nasty disorder — I truly wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. One day, you can wake up feeling like you’ve been hit by a bag of bricks or two semis. Other days, you can’t move without being in pain or risking injury from loose joints making bones pop out everywhere. Having unstable joints means arthritic pain is a constant companion and makes it hard to do “normal” tasks like lifting bags, exercising or evening cutting vegetables for dinner some days. These difficult physical challenges made it hard to keep faith in the beginning because I didn’t understand why God wasn’t healing me. When I finally opened my heart to the possibility of healing, bad turned to worst, and it made me question everything I believed in. After years of diving deeper with Jesus, at the end of the day, no matter what pain I experience, I know in the deepest parts of my soul that I will be OK. Not because of who I am, but because of who God is. He is a good, good Father. He is always with us and always for us, just like His Word says He is. He cannot not be faithful and His Spirit — the very hope of Christ — lives in me. When I think about all of those things, I find everything I need to overcome because the Jesus in me is stronger than the waves of darkness that try to overtake me. In Him, I have nothing to fear.

Q: After college, you sought out the help of a Christian counselor. What did you learn about the connection between your struggles with your faith alongside your battles with anxiety and depression?

A:  I learned that God wasn’t punishing me with anxiety and depression, instead, He was allowing it as an opportunity to deepen my relationship with Him. I also learned that having anxiety and depression didn’t make me any less of a Christian, it just meant I had different areas I had to learn to trust God with. In this case, that involved areas of mental health.

Q: One of the chapters is entitled “Six Things You Need to Know.” What are the six things you want to make sure readers will take away from this chapter?

A:  I believe words have immeasurable power. That’s why I’m a writer. That’s why I strive to think long and hard about the words I choose before I write or say them. That’s why I fight daily to speak life, love, hope, and truth over myself in order to drown out the cruel, untruthful things others have spoken over me. Words are powerful no matter what we are going through, but they are even more powerful when our faith is tested. I wish I could forget some of the things people said to me when the waves of life came crashing in. “You’re never going to get over this,” they told me. “This is going to haunt you for the rest of your life.” Or my personal favorite, “Do you have unresolved sin in your life? Maybe God is punishing you for something.” When we feel like we are drowning, we are susceptible to believing the lies and hurtful things we hear from the outside world. What I want women to know more than anything, is that in their hurt:

1.      God is not punishing you.

2.      You are not alone.

3.      You are going to be OK

4.      Darkness does not define.

5.      You were made for the deep.

6.      God’s love will carry you.

Q: The book ends with a series of stories about warriors of the deep. What can women learn from these stories? What makes a woman a warrior?

A: This is one of my favorite chapters of the book. There is nothing more powerful and inspiring than a testimony! These women are warriors because they chose to give God a chance and take Him at His Word. Every day, they choose to place their past, present and future into His hands, and because of that choice, their deep despair has been replaced with a deep faith and faith to overcome anything that comes their way. They are warriors because they have learned to let go and let God. And that? That is true faith.

My review...

Gaskill has written a book that shows how her faith struggled through anxiety and chronic illness. It also shows how she developed a courageous faith to "swim" through those deep waters. The purpose is to help the reader learn to exchange their fears for courage, too.

Numerous personal stories are shared in the book, along with scripture verses and reflective questions to "Go Deeper." The author is genuine and transparent, which will likely make this book relatable to many readers, as everyone will face deep waters at some point. Gaskill outlines practical strategies, along with examples, to help the reader when they feel they are drowning by reminding them that Jesus is there to be their lifeline.

Some of my favorite quotes include:

• "When we fight for and step into faith, God's Word and His promises begin to unfold in our lives."
• "Beloved, you were not meant to live a life crippled by fear."
• "Faith is our compass in the deep."
• "The secret to surrender is trust."
• "Faith is not the absence of fear but the presence of courage."

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher as part of the Read with Audra blog tour program. I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

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Excerpt from chapter one


About Lauren...

Lauren Gaskill is an author, speaker and host of the Finding Joy podcast and Finding Joy Ladies Night Out events. After being diagnosed with an incurable connective tissue disorder, Lauren made it her life mission to encourage others to fight for faith and find joy — no matter what life’s circumstances might bring.

Gaskill is a storyteller who believes stories are powerful and loves how God uses them for His good. She writes and speaks to motivate and inspire others to experience abundant life in Christ. She is particularly passionate about encouraging women to fight for faith and go deeper in their relationship with Jesus. Gaskill also writes and speaks about what it looks like to walk with Jesus through pain and suffering.

She lives in Raleigh, NC with her husband and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Where you can find Lauren online...

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