"Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer" (book) by Dr. Lauri Hogle

The Story Behind Dr. Lauri Hogle’s book, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer: Scripture Prayers for the Hardest Days:

Several years ago, after a second brain surgery that brought only partial relief, I lay in bed wrestling with unrelenting chronic pain.

Kind friends, wanting the best for me, would say they were praying for God’s favor and blessing so that the suffering would finally stop. Their words were full of love, yet each time I heard them I felt an anguished cry rise within me: But I already have His favor and blessing!

In the quiet of my tears, God reached into my hurting heart. He flooded me with the rich truths of Scripture and the voices of faithful hymn writers who had walked through their own valleys. Songs like “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and “Blessed Assurance” became lifelines. Ephesians 1:3 exploded into living reality: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.” I began to see that the greatest blessings are not the absence of pain but the presence of Christ Himself—pardon, peace, adoption, eternal life, the indwelling Spirit, and a guaranteed future glory.

These truths did not remove my affliction, but they reframed it. They gave me language to pray when words failed and songs to sing when sorrow threatened to drown out hope. That experience birthed this book, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer. I wrote it because I desperately needed these truths myself, and I know many others do too.

Too often, Christian teaching on suffering focuses primarily on asking God to take it away. While there is nothing wrong with crying out for relief, Scripture invites us into something deeper. Even in the darkest nights, we are called to remember what God has already given us in His Son (Jesus Christ). The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, could still praise God who “has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing.” If that was true for Paul in chains, it is true for us in chronic illness, grief, disability, or any form of ongoing tribulation.

This book is not a theological treatise or a step-by-step guide to “victorious living.” It is a lament prayer book. Each chapter draws from God’s Word and pairs it with hymns and prayers that help us speak Biblical truth to our souls when pain, fear, or doubt scream the loudest. Each chapter is filled with the honest tension many of us feel—prayers for earthly comfort colliding with the deeper reality of spiritual riches we already possess.

I wrote this book for fellow sufferers who know Jesus as Savior and Lord. Whether your pain is physical like mine, emotional, relational, or the heavy burden of watching a loved one endure hardship, these pages are for you. I also wrote it for those nearing the end of earthly life who wonder if greater tribulation awaits.

My prayer is that this book will function as a healing balm and a gospel trumpet for weary souls. I hope readers will discover, as I did, the power of praying Scripture back to God—thanking Him for His past faithfulness, His present mercies, and His future promises. I want sufferers to be able to sing with fresh confidence: “Blessings all mine and ten thousand beside!”

I hope the book helps shift our gaze from what we lack to what we possess in Christ. When chronic pain flares, when grief feels crushing, when the future seems frightening, may these prayers and songs anchor us in the unshakeable reality of our union with Jesus.

One of the old hymns included in the book says it beautifully: “Ten thousand blessings it contains/Divinely rich and free/or helpless, wretched, ruined man/Though vile and base as we.”

That is the heart of the gospel. It is not a message for the strong or the comfortable only. It is especially sweet for the weak, the afflicted, and the needy. I pray this book helps readers feel welcomed at the throne of grace, not as those who must first “prove” their worthiness or “fix” their circumstances, but as those already purchased by the blood of the Lamb.

Writing this book has been an act of worship born out of my ongoing chronic pain. It has forced me to preach the gospel to my own soul day after day. Some mornings I can barely whisper the prayers; other days I sing them through tears. But every time I return to these truths, my heart finds rest. My hope is that your heart will too.

If you are suffering today, know that you are not alone. Bring your tears and fears to the Lord. Let His Word wash over you as you pray. May you leave these pages more deeply convinced that you are blessed in Christ—truly, eternally, and presently—whatever your circumstances may be. And may we together “bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits” (Psalm 103:2).

That is why I wrote Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer: Scripture Prayers for the Hardest Days. Not to offer false hope of earthly ease, but to point us to the living Hope who holds us fast. May He use these prayers to comfort, strengthen, and sustain you as you walk through the valley, until we see Him face to face.

In Christ’s love,

Lauri A. Hogle, PhD

~*~
Author Bio:

Lauri A. Hogle, PhD, music therapist, music educator, and church musician, heads Singing Christ's Hope, a nonprofit ministry found at singchristhope.org. 

Her words and musical offerings have touched lives across the globe. 

Lauri's Bible study prayer books, including "Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer," "Near to God," "Praying God's Promises Into Suffering," "Singing the Gospel to Job," and a children's book, "In the Valleys of God's Love," are complemented by weekly playlist gifts for suffering Christian women.

Her lifelong passion is to glorify God through music, teaching, research, and writing. By God's gracious blessing, in many years of serious illness, her great joy is as wife, mother, and Nana.

~*~
Back cover copy for Lauri’s book: 

Amid chronic suffering, tribulation, or our life's final days, where does a Christian find hope? This poignant and powerful book invites you to discover the unshakable blessings already yours in Christ, within your deepest suffering and pain.

Written during Lauri’s journey of severe, chronic physical affliction, this book weaves together short lament prayers, Biblically grounded hymns, and Scriptures about God’s unending favor toward His beloved in Christ. This 90-day devotional is a tender companion for anyone facing trials, offering a pathway to sing and pray of God’s past, present, and future blessings to those united with Jesus.

Whether you’re enduring chronic suffering, fearing future tribulation, or seeking peace in life’s final moments, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer is a healing balm for your soul. Let it lead you to cry, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:2 ESV), as you rest in our faithful Lord’s continual blessings in Christ.

~*~
Connect with Dr. Lauri:

Website: singchristhope.org

Substack: https://lauriahogle.substack.com

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@singingchristshope?si=cYHRjf5fA1Y9_gyE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SingChristHope

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauribellehogle

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we need to say "Thank You" to God

Having an Attitude of Gratitude
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving;

go into his courts with praise.

Give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the Lord is good.

His unfailing love continues forever,

and his faithfulness

continues to each generation.”

–Psalm 100:4-5 NLT

Just over a year, ago a very dear friend went through a serious health challenge.

She had to have what I consider one of the most dangerous surgeries on her brain.

The brain is the headquarters of our bodies. It’s the command post for our body functions. So, you know this was not just routine surgery. Family and friends prayed and prayed for her safety. She went for tests, researched, and asked questions as she juggled her ministry role as well as mothering a vibrant four-year-old and loving her husband. Week after week there still were no concrete answers until one test and an alert technician, she was finally able to receive a diagnosis.

The first prayer we offered was, “Thank you, Lord” because we now had a name, a label to put on the illness. We said thank you because she could name it and give it to God. We knew He could heal her chronic pain and discomfort which were the first signs she knew something was wrong. Many people go undiagnosed for years with illnesses and it is frustrating to know what the issue is and how can it be treated.

We trusted God, and we rejoiced when she went into the hospital and came out alive! She came out hopeful in trusting that the surgeon was able to remove the tumor which we would come to learn had been growing for several years.

Psalm 100:4 MSG reads:

Enter with the password: “Thank you!”

Make yourselves at home, talking praise.

Thank him. Worship him.

Thank you is the password to enter God’s presence.

Can you imagine coming into your friend’s home and saying thank you right away for having you over or allowing you to visit? What would that do to your heart and mind? I know for me it would tell me you’re grateful to come and be with me.

Gratitude and thanksgiving are what the Lord delights in when His children come into His presence with thanks. It’s like the red carpet rolled out for an award show. Is it easy for you to come before the Lord with a grateful heart or are you ready to unleash a grocery list of requests and concerns? Don’t get me wrong, prayer is all things communication. But just think about someone frequently coming into your home, to a meeting or a dinner opening the conversation with frustrations and all the things going wrong in their day. Would we look forward to being with them? I can say I would not.

I am so thankful that gratitude was taught to my siblings and I at a very early age. We were told to always be grateful. Our mother’s wish was that the gracious words, “Please” and “Thank you” would flow freely on our lips. My mom wanted us to live life grateful for everything we received and in everything wherever we found ourselves.

When my birthday rolls around in August, I am always grateful to be alive! The best gift I’ve received is life and I will be forever grateful. Knowing that I am loved, watched over and have access to the throne of the King of Kings. How great is our God! I’m deeply grateful to know Him as our Heavenly Father. Do you know Him? He loves you and wants to be in your life.

Let’s Pray: Father God, it is a good thing to give thanks to You for all You are and for all You’ve done. I’m so grateful for Your goodness and for all You’ve done for me. Even more, I’m so thankful for the best gift ever received through Your Son (Jesus Christ) coming to this Earth to die on a cruel cross for all mankind. Help us to always be grateful and to always find a way to praise You in every situation we find ourselves in. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Thank You” by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is an encourager. She passionately uses her gifting as an author, speaker, pastor, recording artist, worship leader and coach. 

Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body & Spirit (a book that she wrote) was an Amazon Bestseller in October 2020.

Patricia sings! She has released two CDs titled Draw Me Nearer and Lord I Trust You.

She also travels to speak to audiences internationally.

When she is not ministering to save souls in God’s Kingdom, Patricia enjoys reading, writing and connecting like-minded people who can sharpen each other in the journey to their dreams and goals.

As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, her desire is to coach others to live life to the fullest by understanding their gifting from God and using it.

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Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patrussellonline
Twitter: https://twitter.com/patrussellsings
Email: patrussellsings@gmail.com

Interview with Leslie McKee about her NEW devotional book

Today is a special day for my guest Leslie McKee. It's the release date for her NEW devotional book! Let's wish her a "Happy BOOK Birthday!"

In celebration of this special day, I've invited Leslie to talk with you about her devotional book via this author interview feature (below). She's also agreed to give away one copy of her book to the winner of the giveaway contest (details are at the end of this blog post). Enjoy!

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Interview with Leslie McKee about her devotional book (Hope Amid the Pain: Hanging On to Positive Expectations When Battling Chronic Pain and Illness)

Alexis: What inspired you to write this book?

Leslie: Friends told me for years how I should share my story because of how it could encourage others. I resisted because I didn't want others to view me differently because of my chronic pain/illness. However, a few years ago, I felt a nudge from the Lord. I tried to ignore it, but it didn't work. In fact, it became a bit more insistent. I, reluctantly at first, began jotting down some notes and verses that were meaningful to me and helpful on the flare-up days. That later turned into the devotions in this book.

Alexis: What was the inspiration behind your book title? How did you come up with this acronym for HOPE (Hang On to Positive Expectations)?

Leslie: Years ago, before I started writing the book, my pastor did a sermon on HOPE, and it’s something that has always stuck with me, especially on the days when I’m having a flare-up. I needed something to grab on to, to remind me that God still has a plan. This little acronym has helped me through many days, and I hope it can help others as well.

Alexis: Is this your first devotional book that you’ve written? Will there be more? Why or why not?

Leslie: Hope Amid the Pain is my first solo book. I have had my devotions published many other places, including three devotional compilations with Worthy/Ellie Claire, literary journals, and blogs. I do hope there will be future books. I have a few ideas, and I’ve even started working on what may become a 365-day devotional journal. It’s still a work in progress.

Alexis: What main message are you hoping to convey to your readers?

Leslie: My book is a 60-day devotional journal that will remind women it is possible to hang on to positive expectations and cling to the hope that can only be found in the Lord ... even while living with chronic pain and illness.

Alexis: What was the most challenging part of writing this book? And the easiest? Explain.

Leslie: Easiest: Choosing Bible verses that encourage me and lift me up on the difficult days. Most Challenging: Being willing to share my story with others—strangers, as well as those close to me, as I’ve rarely opened up about my chronic pain and illness.

Alexis: In what ways do you hope this devotional will help people who suffer from chronic illnesses and/or chronic pain?

Leslie: In addition to Scripture verses that I hope encourage them and remind them they’re not alone, I also include helpful hacks and tips, information I wish I’d been told when I was newly diagnosed, details on two things I find helpful (journaling and square breathing), and a list of resources where the reader can find information and support.

Alexis: In what ways did your faith in God impact your writing of this book?

Leslie: I’ve been a Christ follower since I was quite young. If I didn’t have Him in my life, I don’t know where I’d be, but I’m certain it wouldn’t be where I am now. There have been many days along the way where a part of me has wanted to throw in the towel, but then a song comes on the radio, or I read an encouraging verse, etc., and it reminds me that I’m not alone. The Lord is with me. I’ve survived 100% of the situations I’ve encountered thus far. He hasn’t left me yet, and I know He’ll continue to see me through each moment, including the painful ones.

Alexis: Who is your target audience for this message? Why?

Leslie: When writing the book, the audience I had in mind was women battling chronic pain and illness, ages 30–60, who want to know that they are not alone in their daily struggles. A believer or a woman who is a seeker or spiritually curious. However, I believe the devotions would apply to women in any geographic location, though some references may be a bit unfamiliar to non-Christians or those outside the USA. For a secondary audience: Caretakers, spouses, or family members of women battling chronic pain and illness. Also women of all ages struggling with a physical hardship or life loss.

Alexis: How do you think this book will reach readers who are Christians and who are not of the faith?

Leslie: We all want to know that we are seen, that we are heard, that we are not alone, and that we belong. I pray my book reminds women that God sees them. He hears them. He knows their pain. He is with them, and He loves them.

Alexis: Would you describe yourself as a “chronic pain warrior”? Why or why not? Share your story.

Leslie: Definitely, though I haven’t always seen myself this way. My view of myself in this regard changed a bit after a friend told me how she viewed me as an overcomer. To me, a chronic pain warrior is someone who is always in pain, though they look fine on the outside. But despite that painful truth, they keep going. Their pain fluctuates, and it’s not a life they would’ve chosen, but they’re more than their pain. While the battle may not always be a literal one, it’s still there, in part, every single day. It may take longer to do a task, even simple, basic ones, but they don’t give up. Progress is progress, no matter how slow the pace may be. And that truth is represented by the turtle on the cover of my book, who demonstrates the slow and steady pace a chronic pain warrior goes through every day. I’ve learned over the years that while this was never in my plans for my life, it was always in God’s plan. And He has one for me, pain and all. And I’m stronger through it because He’s right there with me, every painful moment along the way.

Alexis: What Bible verse keeps you going when you want to give up?

Leslie: I have a number of verses (including the sixty used in my book). The key one for me is Romans 8:37 (NIV): “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” 

Alexis: If you could sell your book in one sentence, what would you say?

Leslie: Hope Amid the Pain will remind women living with chronic pain and illness that hope can always be found in Jesus, and He has a purpose for their life, even amid the pain.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview! Do you have any closing comments?

Leslie: Thanks for having me, Alexis. I appreciate the opportunity to share about my book with your readers. I hope you all have a wonderful, blessed upcoming holiday season.

~*~
Author Bio:

Leslie is an editor, author, and reviewer, but editing, writing, and reviewing are not merely jobs—they are her passions.

Leslie is an avid reader with an eye for detail.

She has been a chronic pain warrior for more than twenty years, so she is familiar with the peaks and valleys associated with living with a chronic illness. She has felt God come alongside her through His Word and remind her that the battle is His and she’s not alone.

Leslie is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and The Christian PEN. She has had devotionals published in Ellie Claire/Worthy Publishing compilation books. She’s also published flash fiction stories.

In her spare time, Leslie enjoys reading, playing piano, crocheting, spending time with family and friends (and her turtle!), and rooting for the NY Giants.

~*~
Blurb for Leslie’s devotional book:

Why me? Is God punishing me? Is my faith not strong enough for God to heal me? How can I achieve my dreams? What’s my purpose? 

If you’re someone living with a chronic illness or chronic pain, these are just a few of the questions you’ve likely asked on more than one occasion. You may feel overlooked or even resentful. You try to stay positive, but some days it’s hard. It’s natural to feel this way and grieve, but it’s still possible to have a hope-filled life. God has a purpose for the pain.

Christians aren’t immune from pain and illness, but we don’t have to go through it alone. Jesus promised that He would “never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV).

Millions of women suffering from chronic pain and illness want the reassurance they’re not alone. The devotions in Hope Amid the Pain are written by a chronic pain warrior with over twenty-five years’ experience will point them to hope and encouragement. It’s possible to Hang On to Positive Expectations (HOPE) even amid the pain.

~*~

Buy Leslie’s book on Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Kobo ~ Booktopia

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Connect with Leslie:

Website: https://leslielmckee.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leslielmckee

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslielmckee/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeslieLMcKee

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7300724.Leslie_L_McKee

Amazon Author page: https://amzn.to/3aXGTkU

~*~
Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN an e-copy (for Kindle) of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below: 

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My Blog's 10th Year Birthday Bash: Liz Tolsma's book giveaway

Welcome to the 20th day of my blog's birthday bash!

Please welcome my author friend Liz Tolsma.

She's here to give away one of her books!

Enter the book giveaway contest via the Rafflecopter widget the end of this blog post. Only residents of the USA are eligible to receive a signed paperback copy of this author's books. International residents will only receive ebook copies due to costs of mailing books outside of the USA.

Let's learn a little bit more about Liz and her book ...

Author Bio:

Liz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. 

She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a U.S. Marine, and her oldest daughter is a college student. 

Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping.

 Please visit her blog, The Story behind the Story, at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), and Pinterest. She is also a regular contributor to the Midwest Almanac blog.

~*~

Back Cover Blurb for Liz's book:

When Harriet Peters came to Boston in 1882, the Robinson family took her in like one of their own, and Harriet became closer to Lizzie Robinson than her own siblings. 

Now, four years later, Lizzie is deathly sick, failing quickly just like several others in her family have done over the past few years. How can so many in one family die from the same mysterious illness? 

Harriet doesn’t have answers, but she is determined to help the family, bringing in a new-to-the-neighborhood doctor, Michael Wheaton.

As Harriet and Michael close in on the answer, putting their own lives at risk, can the cause be found before anyone else dies?

~*~

Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a copy of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below:

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Celebrate Lit blog tour for "There Is Hope" (book) by Carla Huelsmann

Welcome to my blog's stop on the Celebrate Lit blog tour for There is Hope: Bloom Where You are Planted (book) by Carla Huelsmann!

Read my review of Carla's book below and enjoy your time with her today! 

Remember to enter the fun giveaway contest toward the end of this blog post.

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About the Book:

Title: There is Hope

Author: Carla Huelsmann

Genre: Journal, devotional, memoir

Release Date: August 2018

52 life lessons for those struggling with major illness will inspire hope and encourage those suffering to take back control of their lives.

Carla Huelsmann dealt with the daily impact of seizures since age two. Her life-long battle with epilepsy impacted all parts of her life, family, career, self-confidence, and independence until corrective brain surgery ended the seizures. Free from the debilitating seizures and their accompanying residues of doubt and fear, Carla Huelsmann lives independently and shares her story to help others along their own journeys.

Part journal, part devotional, and part memoir, this is a book of hope, faith, and inspiration. The book addresses the fears, challenges, and questions about the future those going through a major illness, debilitating injury, or life crisis may have. Designed as a traveling companion for those facing challenging circumstances, each one-page entry is accompanied by blank space for the reader to journal his or her own thoughts and prayers.

My goal is to give hope, help, healing, and resources. I want to walk alongside others and assure them they are not alone; there is hope. -Carla Huelsmann

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Buy Carla's book on Amazon

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About the Author:

Carla Huelsmann earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Eastern Illinois University, subsequently taught grades five through eight, and now works for the US Department of Veterans Affairs in St. Louis, MO.

The alumnus of a fiction-writing course at Southern Illinois University, and the CLASS Seminar with Marita and Florence Littauer, she is also the author of articles on her experiences, and is available to speak.

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A Message from the author (Carla):

I want to inspire and equip others struggling with epilepsy or other major illnesses to take back control of their lives. Eighteen years after corrective surgery, I live a seizure-free life that I feel in control of. And, I want to share my story and lessons learned with others facing serious challenges. 

My goal is to give hope, help and healing and resources of helpful information in one book. I want to walk alongside them and assure them that they are not alone and there is hope!

I’ve dealt with seizures, epilepsy and their daily impact since the age of two. It has impacted my family, career, self-confidence, independence and much more. Through it all, family, friends and faith have provided bedrock sources of strength. In addition, timely interventions by doctors, new contacts, new techniques and self-discipline came at opportune times through perseverance.

Now free from the tunnel of doubt, fear and debilitating seizures, I’ve gathered up my collection of personal journals and thoughts in order to help others along their journey. There Is Hope: Bloom Where You are Planted is a devotional for someone going through major illness, major injury, or life crisis.

~*~
My Review of Carla's book:

There Is Hope: Bloom Where You are Planted is a book with a beautiful cover that makes you want to pick up the book, open to the first page and inhale deeply as the reader!

However, as I journeyed through the pages of this story, I found it to feel incomplete.

My impression is that the author wrote the manuscript, telling her story but then simply divided it into chapters that were not complete. As I turned the pages of this book, I found chapters that were barely two paragraphs long! And at times, the endings of the chapter felt more like a beginning that hadn't started or middle that's missing. It left me feeling like the author's story, as formatted in this book, is not complete. Halfway through the book, the author had letters to her doctor as full chapters that were only about one or two pages long! I didn't understand how that was considered a chapter and I've yet to read any other nonfiction story written with this type of layout in any other book in my lifetime thus far.

However, I do think that the author does a good job of putting her heart out there and I admire how she isn't scared to share deep details of her personal real life story in a way that will help the reader have hope in hard times. And I do realize that the summary of the book says the these are "52 life lessons" that compose this book. However, I still do think that some of these life lessons throughout this book could have been elaborated for stronger impact. Sometimes the lessons were too precise and concise. 

But I couldn't move past the feeling that this book was incomplete and the chapters didn't feel or look like chapters. It doesn't take away from the message of hope and resilience that is at the core of the author's story. But it just feels ... incomplete.

*Celebrate Lit provided me (Alexis A. Goring) with a complimentary copy of "There is Hope" (book). My opinions in this book review are my own.

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Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 13

janicesbookreviews, January 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 15

Older & Smarter?, January 16

Inklings and notions, January 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 18

For the Love of Literature, January 19

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 20

Through the Fire Blogs, January 21 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, January 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 22

CarpeDiem, January 23

Splashes of Joy, January 24

By The Book, January 25 (Author Interview)

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, January 25

God is Love, January 26

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Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carla is giving away the grand prize of an autographed copy of the book! Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter:

https://promosimple.com/ps/f46c/there-is-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

Devotionals for the Heart: Sara's story

He is There
A devotional by Sara L. Foust

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV)

My faith is thin. I am not gonna lie. I am physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually exhausted. It has been that kind of year. You know, where you have wave after wave slam into you and by the eleventh month, your snorkel is the only thing above water. And that, just barely.

I am not the kind of person who has usually done a “word for the year” challenge. But this year, without even really thinking about it, the word “Courage” came to me very early on. I knew I would need immense amounts of courage to go on my mission trip. I thought that would be the biggest obstacle I would face. I was wrong.

My son has been diagnosed with autism.

My daughter has begun mental health therapy.

My marriage has come to the beginning of the end.

My TMJ needed joint surgery with a disc removal and skin graft.

My church isn’t my church anymore.

And the year hasn’t come to a close yet. What I’ve learned is this: Through it all, God loves me. No matter what decisions I make. No matter what mental state I am in. He loves me. Unconditionally. Unendingly. Unblamingly. Just love, like pure spring water. Clear, unaltered, unhindered love. And it is the only saving grace I have, the only beacon of light when things look dark. It is real. It is honest. It is time-tested and true.

So, rather than the above list in the cons column, here’s what I’m choosing to focus on:

My son spoke to his Pre-K teacher for the first time a few weeks ago. And he’s learned a ton of new words that he uses freely at home.

My daughter is sleeping through the night, most of the time in her own room, and she is confident and happy and growing.

My marriage produced three beautiful children and I learned immense amounts about myself.

I only have two TMJ joints, so, even if the other one goes caput, I’m halfway through surgeries.

My church family, though I am not able to be present with them, loves me still, and God will bring me to another church home.

God is never going to leave me. He is never going to leave you. And more than anything in this world, He wants us to cry out to him in the middle of that black ocean called worry, fear, dread, sickness, divorce, temptation . . . whatever your ocean is called, He is there. He is always there.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sara writes Inspirational Romantic Suspense from a mini-farm in East Tennessee, where she lives with her husband and their five homeschooled children. 

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Tennessee and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Tennessee Mountain Writers.

Her debut novel, Callum's Compass, won second place in Deep River Books' 2017 Writer's Contest. She also has a story, “Leap of Faith,” in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Step Outside Your Comfort Zone. Sara finds inspiration in her faith, her family, and the beauty of nature.

When she isn’t writing, you can find her reading, camping, and spending time outdoors with her family. To learn more about her and her work or to become a part of her email friend’s group, please visit www.saralfoust.com.

Devotionals for the Heart: God Made You and Loves You Unconditionally

As I Am
A devotional by Sara L. Foust

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10 (KJV)

This verse has been on my heart a lot lately. First, when I returned from my mission trip in May. Then it spurred the idea for my recent blog post on my website. And today, again, as I write this newest thought I can’t get this verse out of my mind.

As my friend, Becky, and I drove to a weekend event at the Grainger County Tomato Festival recently, we visited and the topic of our health came up, as it does often. I have struggled with depression since I was a young girl, and many times in my life have wondered why in the world I had to suffer with such a complicated, unseen, stigmatized disease. Years ago my cousin, also Becky, pointed out to me that I shouldn’t feel embarrassed or badly for my disease. It isn’t necessarily something I can completely control.

After all, someone with diabetes or heart disease or arthritis is rarely chastised for having a disease. It isn’t something they can help, after all, right? I am thankful for this reminder and especially thankful for the journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance it created. Since that conversation, God has shown me just how carefully He crafted me. I am precious, like the items at the fair, hand-crafted, unique, and made with care. God didn’t randomly grab a bunch of ingredients and throw them into my DNA pot. No, He hand-picked them with intention, including whatever element it is in my brain that makes me susceptible to depression. I may not understand why I have it. My cousin may not understand why she has RA. My friend may not understand why she has dysautonomia. But I firmly believe, without a shadow of a doubt, there is a reason.

Let’s say that again, there is a reason. Knowing that the Bible tells us “all things work together for good to them that love God,” it must be a good reason, for our good. But more importantly than that, for others’ good. Since I accepted that part of me and began telling my story, God has given me opportunities to encourage others who have similar problems. 

Unless I possess firsthand knowledge of a disease or situation, while I may feel empathetic, it is hard to fully and completely understand the how a person feels. Not the way the person experiencing it does, anyway. Because I know what it’s like in the darkness of depression and the joy of finding light, I can help others who are struggling to find the peace and wonder of God’s love.

It may sound strange to some, but I am thankful for my disease. It makes me a more humble, understanding, and compassionate person. It draws me closer to God, for in the “down” times I must draw close to Him to keep my head above water. And it allows me to understand a niche of people whom I could potentially be blessed to help.

It’s often hard to embrace a diagnosis as a good thing, but I am trying to keep it in a positive perspective and keep my focus on the good that can come from a disease in the form of helping another. And to be thankful for a loving God who created me just as I am.

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Author Bio:

Sara writes Inspirational Romantic Suspense from a mini-farm in East Tennessee, where she lives with her husband and their five homeschooled children. 

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Tennessee and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Tennessee Mountain Writers.

Her debut novel Callum's Compass won second place in Deep River Books' 2017 Writer's Contest. She also has a story, “Leap of Faith,” in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Step Outside Your Comfort Zone. Sara finds inspiration in her faith, her family, and the beauty of nature.

When she isn’t writing, you can find her reading, camping, and spending time outdoors with her family. To learn more about her and her work or to become a part of her email friend’s group, please visit www.saralfoust.com.

Summer Stories: Carolina Mercy

Interview with Tom Livingston, character in Carolina Mercy:

Alexis: Lucy’s grandmother described you as a “tall drink of water.” How do you feel about that description?

Tom: Well, I’ve been called worse. (chuckle) In the South, we have lots of descriptions for different kinds of people. At 6’2”, I do tend to tower above most people, especially Lucy. She’s a tiny thing.

Alexis: Describe your relationship with Lucy. How did you meet? Why did you become friends? Did you ever want to become more than friends?

Tom: I figured you’d get around to Lucy. I met Lucy the same summer my best bud, Jared, met his fiancée, Sarah. Apparently, they decided that since we were constantly trying to fix them up with other people, it was their turn. We hit it off instantly. Our first outing, with Sarah and Jared, was to look for furniture for Sarah’s beach house. When we both gravitated toward the massage chairs, I knew she was pretty special. We went out another time, just the two of us, and I just had to kiss her. Yeah, I’d say I wanted to be more than friends. 

Alexis: Why did you and Lucy go eight months without speaking to each other?

Tom: That was a rough time. When Lucy left, I fully intended to keep in touch, especially since her best friend was going to be living here. I started making all kinds of plans. My dad had passed the year before, suddenly, and my mom, Charly, my kid sister, and I were slowly getting back to normal. We went on vacation together, and during that vacation, Mom started having headaches. When we got home and she was diagnosed with a disease that would eventually blind her. I felt like I had to put all my attention on taking care of them, along with my job. How could I ask Lucy to take on not only me, but my family? We’re not well-off, and I guess my pride wouldn’t let me pursue her.

Alexis: Your Mom said that Lucy makes you “stammer like a school boy”. Has your Mom always been so insightful? Clearly, she knows that you like Lucy.

Tom: Oh, Mama doesn’t need sight to know what’s going on. And yes, she’s always been that way. I remember when I met Jared, in high school, at football practice. I came home mad as a stuck pig because this scrawny kid had taken me out in a tackle practice. I told her all about it. She didn’t say much, but she patched me up, fixed me some sweet tea, then told me that I might have just met a friend for life. (chuckle) Turns out, she was right. She usually is. She knew about Lucy long before she met her, and I think she had a feeling she might just be “the one.”

Alexis: Were you nervous about Lucy meeting your Mom? How did that go?

Tom: Since I know my mom, I don’t think I was as nervous as Lucy was. As soon as they met, my mom hugged her and we all laughed when she said, “You’re a little woman, like me.” They’re two peas in a pod, now. Mom, Charly, and Lucy like to gang up on me every chance they get. I fuss, but they see right through me.

Alexis: Why does Lucy “amaze” you? Describe her best qualities.

Tom: How do you describe someone who shows up to work on a roof in a pink toolbelt? She makes me laugh, keeps me grounded, and pulls me out of the muck of overwhelming responsibility, making me trust God more than myself. 

Alexis: What is it about Lucy that makes you want to date and maybe even marry her?

Tom: She pulls me out of myself, if that makes sense, and makes me think I can accomplish anything. 

Alexis: You’ve said that Lucy was “everything” to you but she could never know it. Why not?

Tom: When I met Lucy, I wasn’t thinking about the future, or about our different backgrounds. I just knew she was Sarah’s friend, and a lot of fun. When she left I learned more about her from Sarah, I realized that she was far above me, socio-economically. I couldn’t ask her to take on a small-town detective with a blind mother and a teenage sister. I didn’t want her, or anyone else, to think I needed help. 

Alexis: When your mother was diagnosed with an untreatable illness, you pushed your career dreams aside. What did you want to do for a living before your mother’s illness and what do you want to do now? Explain.

Tom: I guess my career path really changed earlier than Mama’s illness. I graduated from Clemson University and planned to go into the Air Force, then segue into working for the FBI. That was the dream. When it came time to get out of school, money was tight, and I put off entering the Air Force and started working with Jared on flipping houses. I got on with the local sheriff’s department, thinking I could still train for the FBI. When Dad died, I knew I needed to stay closer to home. Then Mom took sick, and I put it behind me. The FBI, or even the South Carolina Bureau, would have me living away from here, and Mom and Charly need me. So, I’m happy to be where I am. Who knows? Maybe I’ll be sheriff someday.

Alexis: Why did you feel that God’s mercy is for everyone except you?

Tom: This is part of my selfish desire to be in control. I was bitter about lots of things. I’ve seen God work in other people’s lives, and I really think I tried to turn off that part of me that would listen to God’s “still, small voice.” I have to say, God’s shown me, through my friend Jared, that sometimes when it seems like God’s not paying attention, he definitely is in control, showing mercy all around you whether you’re paying attention or not.

Alexis: How have your own issues affected your outlook on life?

Tom: Definitely. I was always pretty serious, but able to see the bright side, until Mom’s illness. I got angry. It’s funny how trauma can turn the tables. When I saw Lucy’s grief, and Jared’s traumatic events, I had to be positive, for them. I had to be supportive. Those things have made me a better person.

Alexis: How did Sarah’s wedding—and a hurricane—bring you and Lucy together?

Tom: See this smile on my face? Yeah. The wedding that almost wasn’t, and the hurricane that threw us all for a loop? Those are events that I’ll always hold close. They were terrible, but as with most tragedy, God used them for good. All these events forced Lucy and me to spend more time together, and it made me stop and listen to God. You can’t have a better outcome than that.

Alexis: What do you want readers to remember most about your story?

Tom: God is love. God is mercy. God doesn’t punish us, He leads us. And on another level, God gives us the people around us to draw us to Him. We just have to be willing to listen.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview, Tom! Do you have closing comments?

Tom: Just this – Hold your friends close, and when you find that special person that God has for you, pay attention. My mother would add, “And listen to your mama.”

~*~
Author Bio:

Regina Rudd Merrick began reading romance and thinking of book ideas as early as her teenage years when she attempted a happily-ever-after sequel to “Gone With the Wind.” That love of fiction parlayed into a career as a librarian, and finally to writing full-time. 

She began attending local writing workshops and continued to hone her craft by writing several short and novel-length fan-fiction pieces published online, where she met other authors with a similar love for story, a Christian worldview, and happily-ever-after. 

Married for 30+ years and active in their church in Marion, KY, Regina and her husband have two grown daughters who share her love of music, writing, and the arts.

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Book Blurb for Carolina Mercy:

She’s always gotten everything she’s wanted. He thinks he has to give up everything. 

Her best friend’s wedding is foremost on Lucy Dixon’s radar. Her biggest concern is once again meeting Tom Livingston, who has ignored her since an idyllic date on the boardwalk of Myrtle Beach the previous summer.

At least, it is her biggest concern until tragedy strikes. Where is her loving, merciful God, now?

When Tom Livingston meets Lucy, the attraction is instant. Soon after, his mother is diagnosed with an untreatable illness and his personal life is pushed aside. His work with the sheriff’s department, his family – they are more important. He knows about the love of God, but circumstances make him feel as if God’s mercy is for everyone else, not him.

Can a wedding and a hurricane – blessing and tragedy – bring them together?

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Buy Carolina Mercy on Amazon

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Connect with Regina:
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2u4OHM1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/trmerrick64
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reginamerrick/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/rmerrick/
Website: https://www.reginaruddmerrick.com
Publisher Website: https://mantlerockpublishing.com/

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Interview with Gail Pallotta, author of "Barely Above Water"

Let's welcome Gail Pallotta to the blog today. She's the author of a book called Barely Above Water and today she's here to talk about it! Enjoy! :)

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My interview with Gail

Alexis: What inspired you to write this Contemporary Romance, Barely Above Water? Talk about how you chose the title too.

Gail: I have Chronic Lyme Disease, but by the grace of God and with excellent care I’m able to lead an active life. By way of the grapevine, I began to receive inquiries asking how I found help. Hearing people’s struggles to find treatment, I decided to write a book detailing some of my symptoms and treatments and include a section in the back by two experts.

I wanted my novel to be fun to read, so I added a romance and a rag-tag swim team. My daughter’s many years of swimming and eight years of coaching inspired the team.

I titled this book after much thought. A reference to water seemed a natural choice because the story involves swimming and it’s set in an area that’s a peninsula. However, I needed words pointing to a struggle to survive. Thus, "Barely Above Water".

Alexis: Tell us about your story’s heroine, Suzie Morris. Describe her looks, heart, and passion for life. Include insights into her personality and the reason for her character flaw.

Gail: In Matt’s thoughts, Suzie is a “hot chic.” She’s thin, and quite a few of her clothes are baggy because she lost weight when she grew ill, but she’s still attractive. When Matt’s co-worker suggested Matt hang out with Suzie, Matt “could see Suzie’s crystal clear, blue eyes, her little nose and thin, perfectly etched lips. She was kinda’ skinny for an athlete, but gorgeous.”

Suzie’s passion is to get rid of the illness wreaking havoc on her life.

As far as her personality, she’s an extrovert who enjoys people. She has a healthy competitive spirit and thinks outside of the box. Right now, she’s lost self-confidence because the malady is causing her lots of problems, and her boyfriend dumped her because of it. She’s always loved God and depended on Him, but she needs His help even more than ever now, and she asks for it.

Suzie is dealing with a lot—an illness, being dumped by her boyfriend, not having family still alive and doctors who are clueless about how to help her. You’ve said that she is a Christian. How is her faith getting her through these tough times?

Suzie believes God directed her to the chiropractor who successfully treats her. She’s convinced if she prays and follows God’s lead, He will take care of her. Her faith gives her the strength to persevere and hope.

Alexis: Why did Suzie want the job coaching a swim team? Why is she passionate about transforming them into winners?

Gail: Suzie left her job as a magazine editor to move to Destin to receive the treatment she needed and took the only job she could find. 

As a championship swimmer in her teens, Suzie has a competitive spirit. That’s coupled with the fact that these swimmers are children of the city’s service workers who help make the tourist season succeed. Most of them have little experience swimming. Some don’t even know how. As Suzie works to perfect their technique, they grow encouraged and try to become accomplished. She wants them to see their hard work pay off and grow confident in their abilities, which will give them more confidence in life in general.

Alexis: What is Suzie’s boss’s name? In what ways does he renew “her belief in love” and does that renewal carry on through the story? Or do they face obstacles?

Gail: Matt, Suzie’s boss, has sworn off women, but he falls for Suzie, and she’s attracted to him. When he and Suzie go out, he’s complimentary toward Suzie and treats her well. For that reason and the chemistry between them, she opens her heart to him. Unfortunately, Matt’s had a problem coping with illness ever since his mother died from cancer. When he learns of Suzie’s mysterious malady, he breaks up with her.

Alexis: Tell us more about the hero of this story (Suzie’s boss). What is his background? What about Suzie attracts him? What are his likes and dislikes in life?

Gail: Matt’s a great guy, but he’s suffered losses that have left him going through the motions of living rather than embracing life. When he was in high school, he was a football star. He was really good and dreamed of a pro career. However, he injured his knee and ended up not playing anymore. Then, his mother’s death shattered his heart.

At first, he’s attracted to Suzie’s looks, but as he learns more about her, he respects her personality, intelligence, and problem-solving ability. Later, he’s impressed by her fortitude, which she attributes to her faith in God.

Matt’s heart’s still with football, but he also enjoys being around the swim team kids and wants to see them win. He likes his job as head of the parks and recreation department in Okaloosa County as well as he would any other than playing pro football. In his leisure time he enjoys walking on the beach, the harbor or a boardwalk. He’s a pretty laid-back guy without many dislikes, but he is bitter toward his dad and his high school girlfriend. They insisted he drop his dream of playing football, find a good business school and pursue a more realistic career.

Alexis: What was the most rewarding part of the writing process?

Gail: Knowing I was doing something that would help someone suffering. I realized I may never hear from that person or persons, and I probably would never know who they are, but I knew Barely Above Water contained valuable information about this little-understood disease.

Alexis: What’s the take-home message that you want your readers to remember about this book? 

Gail: The hope faith in God brings.

Alexis: If you were not a writer, what would you be? Why?

Gail: I have a background in public relations. Also, when my husband built houses I decorated them or worked with the buyers to do so. I enjoyed both. If I were to return to public relations, that would be because I enjoy talking with people. If it were decorating, that would be because I liked dreaming up a decor the way I do my characters. However, I’m happy writing books!

Alexis: Thanks for the interview, Gail! Would you like to share any closing thoughts?

Gail: Thank you for having me.

~*~

Author Bio:

Award-winning author Gail Pallotta’s a wife, mom, swimmer and bargain shopper who loves God, beach sunsets and getting together with friends and family. 

A former regional writer of the year for American Christian Writers Association, she won Clash of the Titles in 2010. 

Her teen book, Stopped Cold, finished fourth in the 16th Annual Preditors and Editors readers’ poll and was a 2013 Grace Awards finalist. Barely Above Water won Honorable Mention in the Reader’s Favorite 2017 Book Award Contest in the Christian - Romance - General Category.

She’s published five books, poems, short stories and two-hundred articles. Some of her articles appear in anthologies while two are in museums. Gail loves to connect with readers. To learn more about Gail and her books, visit any of her social media sites.

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Book Blurb: An illness comes out of nowhere and strikes Suzie Morris. Her boyfriend dumps her. 

She has no living family, and her physician can’t diagnose the malady. Suzie relies on her Christian faith as she faces the uncertainty of the disease, and turns to a renowned alternative doctor in Destin, Florida. 

She takes a job coaching a county-sponsored summer swim team. She’s determined to turn the fun, sometimes comical, rag-tag bunch into winners. 

Her handsome boss renews her belief in love, but learns of her mysterious affliction and abruptly cuts romantic ties. Later he has regrets, but can he overcome his fear of losing a loved one and regain Suzie’s trust?

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Buy Gail's book:

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble 

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Connect with Gail:

Amazon Author page - amazon.com/author/gailpallotta
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AuthorsandMore
Twitter - https://twitter.com/hopefulwords

Website - http://www.gailpallotta.com

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