Stories & Reflection
READ: When You Can't Find God by Linda Evans Shepherd
Friday, June 3, 2011 by Marti
Categories: Read
“God will take care of you.” “Just trust Him.” “He’s got you in His hands.” “God never closes a door but He opens a window.” “He’s got something better for you—wait and see.” These statements carry varying degrees of truth. But all are pat answers—trite statements that lose their meaning because we use them so often.
As a mother whose now-adult daughter suffered severe brain damage in a car accident more than twenty years ago, Linda Shepherd could write the book on pat answers. I'm thankful she didn’t. Her new release, When You Can’t Find God: How to Ignite the Power of His Presence (Revell, 2011) explores the mystery of experiencing the holy in the hurt.
The book combines biblical, practical teaching with powerful, personal stories that help draw readers toward God. Highlighted callouts and chapter-ending features including “Oasis” (a Psalm or other avenue for finding and resting in God) and “Prayer Experience” (the author’s own prayer to pray or adapt) point readers to the Father. Each chapter also contains a link to a brief video (check them out at www.IgniteMyFaith.com, "Chapter Videos") in which the author shares a teaching on an important chapter concept. The book ends with a section of discussion questions suitable for personal or small group use.
When I’m hurting, I need a friend—not an expert. When I’m confused, I need truth—not the enemy’s lies. When I’m in pain, I need a healing dose of Holy Spirit power—not pat answers or pious platitudes. When You Can’t Find God, with its warm, compassionate tone, contains all three.
Read it and receive an inoculation against pat answers. Embrace it and allow the Truth to set you free.
Could you or a friend use the insights this book offers? Add a brief explanation in your comment (use your name only, not your friend's) before midnight on Sunday, June 5, 2011. If I draw your name, I’ll send you my review copy to share (US addresses only, please). If your browser won’t allow you to comment, send an email instead using the "contact" link to the right.
PAM is the winner of my review copy! I'll be in touch to get your mailing address, Pam. Thanks to those who entered and happy summer!
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