This is my first book to experience the pen of Joni Eareckson Tada. I am hoping to now read more of her work. Oh, what a tremendous blessing for the wounded and struggling soul.
This is a powerful devotional. A gift for the friend who is trudging up that mountain, trying to find glory in their mess. A beautiful gift for anyone who desires to see God's glory in everything in us and around us.
This little gem is packed with goodness and strength. Each devotional is dated, with the address of scripture that the devotional reading comes from, and each ends with an uplifting prayer or words of sweet story.
I will share with you a favorite. This devotional is listed for September 21. The scripture is Psalm 46:10.
"There is only one situation where weakness is a virtue. The Bible, of course, urges us to "be strong" again and again. Our culture celebrates powerful people and shows contempt for weakness. But in the presence of the Almighty, all-knowing, everywhere-present Lord of all, admitting weakness is both wise and appropriate. In today's scripture, the Lord Himself speaks: "Be still and know that I am God." In Hebrew, the term translated be still could also be rendered "to be weak; to let go, to release." A paraphrase might read, "Let yourself become weak, and you will know God's power in your life." The apostle Paul agrees: "When I am weak, then I am strong." Whatever adversity you may be facing right now, don't be ashamed if you feel weak or lack strength or resources. That's the best time to present yourself to God, so He can supply His strength.
Lord, I remember the story of David at Ziklag. He was defeated and heartbroken, and he had cried so hard that he had no strength left in his body. His men were so angry with him that they were about to stone him to death. But your Word tells us that "David strengthened himself in the Lord his God." That is what I want to do, Lord, right now,"
This is just a marvelous devotional that truly touches the broken, bruised, and weak. So often we feel alone and exhausted as we take the next step into the unknown. Joni Eareckson Tada gives the reader words of hope and grace that points to our Savior and Him alone.
This is definitely one of those devotionals to treasure for this long journey home.
This devotional was a gift from Zondervan for sharing my review with you.
Joni Eareckson Tada is found and CEO of Joni and Friends, an organization that accelerates Christian outreach in the disability community. Joni and Friends provides practical and spiritual support to special needs families worldwide. Joni is the author of numerous bestselling books, including Joni & Ken, Diamonds in the Dust, and the Gold Medallion Award-winning When God Weeps. Joni and her husband, Ken, reside in Calabasas, California. For more information, visit www.joniandfriends.org.
