Blog Archives
Joe Gross is Dead
Helen DeBell’s Joe Gross Is Dead is a raw and deeply personal memoir chronicling her battle with depression, bullying, and self-worth, and how her life was radically transformed through her faith in Jesus Christ. Growing up as the youngest child in a large Iowa farm family, DeBell weaves memories of her loving home life with the intense isolation and cruelty she experienced from peers. The nickname “Joe Gross,” cruelly given to her in high school, became a symbol of deep shame and self-loathing. But over the course of her story, we witness a spiritual awakening. DeBell shares how the voice of God intervened in her darkest moments, eventually leading her to a life of purpose, joy, and ministry. Her journey from the pain of near-suicide to becoming a mother, writer, and Christian leader is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Reading this book was like stepping into someone’s diary and watching the pages of hurt slowly turn into a hymn. What struck me most was Helen’s ability to balance poetic honesty with gritty memories that don’t sugarcoat anything. The way she describes the moment she nearly took her own life felt like time stopped. Her writing is simple but full of emotion. It never felt distant or rehearsed. She made me feel like I was there beside her, in her childhood barn, in her quiet heartbreak, and later, in her healing. I admired her strength in exposing wounds that many people would rather forget. There’s something rare and brave about the way she holds nothing back.
But what really moved me wasn’t just the pain. It was the change. The book doesn’t just say “things got better.” It shows it. Her love story with Randy, her discovery of worship music, and the moment she gave her life to Christ, those pages glowed. You can sense her joy, not just in the words but in the way she lifts the weight off the story. There’s a powerful beauty in the way she reclaims the insult “Joe Gross” and turns it into “Jehovah’s Gardener.” It’s rare to read something that feels so personal and still leaves space for the reader to reflect on their own story.
Joe Gross Is Dead is for anyone who has ever felt invisible or broken, for anyone who’s been labeled and left out. It’s especially meaningful for people of faith or those curious about finding hope in God during deep pain. This isn’t a perfect, polished redemption arc, it’s a real one. I wouldn’t call it light reading, but I would call it necessary. If you’ve ever needed proof that people can come back from the edge and find life again, this book is it.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0F7C9F4BM
The Shepherd: Experiencing Psalm 23
The Shepherd is a heartfelt and personal exploration of Psalm 23, written by James Collins, a pastor and veteran with a deep love for scripture. The book walks readers line by line through the famous psalm, connecting each phrase to stories from the Bible, real-life events, and personal anecdotes. It’s not a theological tome but rather a reflection, aiming to make the beauty and depth of Psalm 23 come alive for the everyday believer. With each chapter, Collins unpacks a single verse or idea, emphasizing God’s love, guidance, and care for His people in a way that’s accessible and full of warmth.
Collins writes simply, sometimes with humor, and often with deep emotion. He doesn’t try to impress the reader with scholarship; instead, he reaches for the heart. What stood out most to me was his ability to make ancient words feel fresh. His use of stories like the little boy in the hospital holding his ring finger or the Civil War soldier saved by a song brought me to tears. The message that “the Lord is always with you” is a good one, and it is repeated often.
I also appreciated Collins’s honesty about his own limitations. He says right out that he doesn’t know much about sheep, which makes his exploration of shepherding all the more relatable. That humility gives the book a kind of strength. But I also found myself wishing the book went deeper in parts. There’s a lot of comfort here, but not always a challenge. At times, it leaned into sentiment, which was moving.
By the end, I was glad I read it. This book is full of kindness. It doesn’t shout or try to prove anything. It gently reminds you that you’re not alone. I’d recommend The Shepherd to anyone who is hurting, anyone who’s looking for comfort, or anyone who wants to revisit the Psalms with a fresh set of eyes. It’s a good book to give to a friend going through something hard. It’s also a great companion to quiet mornings with coffee and prayer. It won’t shake up your theology, but it might just soothe your heart.
Pages: 114 | ASIN : B0F6M678SY
EL Gran Intercambio
El Gran Intercambio es un poderoso testimonio autobiográfico de Aneasa Pérez que narra vívidamente su viaje espiritual, emocional y personal desde el dolor y la decepción hasta la sanación y la restauración divina. Escrito con sincera sinceridad, el libro explora los oscuros valles del trauma infantil, las relaciones abusivas, los falsos sistemas religiosos y la profunda soledad, culminando en un encuentro transformador con el verdadero amor de Dios.
Pérez abre su alma, relata momentos personales de desesperación, pensamientos suicidas y la búsqueda de aceptación. Su transparencia hace que el libro sea cercano y cautivador, especialmente para lectores que han sufrido abuso religioso, abandono familiar o relaciones tóxicas. Un tema central es la crítica a los falsos profetas y a los sistemas religiosos manipuladores. Pérez expone con valentía las tácticas de control y comercialización dentro de ciertas iglesias, especialmente a partir de su experiencia con la Iglesia Universal del Reino de Dios. Este segmento es particularmente impactante y estimulante para los cristianos que se enfrentan a la autoridad espiritual.
Más allá de la oscuridad, Pérez ofrece esperanza. Su narrativa está impregnada de reflexión bíblica y enfatiza el poder de Dios para redimir, restaurar y sanar. Su nueva paz, simbolizada por eventos sencillos pero profundos, ilustra cómo las pequeñas victorias pueden ser el símbolo de una sanación espiritual más profunda. El libro incluye orientación para mujeres que enfrentan abuso y confusión espiritual. Pérez comparte lecciones sobre la independencia emocional, la fe genuina y la importancia de discernir la verdad en entornos religiosos.
El Gran Intercambio es un llamado a la claridad espiritual, la sanación y la verdad. La voz de Aneasa Pérez es de valentía y compasión, y se dirige a quienes tienen el corazón roto y se pierden en la niebla de una religiosidad engañosa. Su camino es un testimonio del amor redentor de Dios, y el libro ofrece un rayo de esperanza a quienes buscan una fe genuina tras la desilusión.
Pages: 103 | ASIN : B0F49JZQ8K
Re-Imagining Contentment: Living Life from God’s Perspective
ReShone L. Moore’s Re-Imagining Contentment is a heartfelt roadmap to finding peace amid life’s hardships. Blending scriptural wisdom with her lived experience of chronic illness, Moore guides readers through a seven-step journey toward contentment, defined not by worldly measures but by spiritual alignment with God’s will. From the metaphor of the Potter in Jeremiah to her own battle with multiple sclerosis, Moore illustrates how surrender, trust, and reflection are vital tools for emotional and spiritual healing.
I found Moore’s writing both intimate and grounding. She doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of pain—physical, emotional, or spiritual. Her vulnerability in the “Prologue,” where she recounts her diagnosis and the day she experienced “foot drop,” is raw and powerful. But rather than wallow, she transforms this pain into purpose. In Chapter 1, “The Potter,” she reflects on how disobedience and striving without God led her to discontent, and how returning to the Creator reframed her view. The metaphor is simple yet effective: God, as the potter, molds us, mess and all. It’s a reminder that even in brokenness, we are in divine hands.
What struck me most was Moore’s pushback against the notion that contentment equals complacency. Her step-by-step breakdown, especially in chapters like “Step #1 – Reflect” and “Step #2 – Reject,” teaches that being content doesn’t mean giving up dreams—it means releasing the burden of control. She writes about surrender not as defeat, but as “a position of power and peace.” Her honesty when describing letting go of her beloved high heels—a small but symbolic act—was strangely emotional for me. I saw in that moment the thousands of compromises we all make with grief, and how dignity can survive change.
Chapter 7, Concluding with a Plan (Repeat When Needed), brings the journey full circle by reinforcing the idea that contentment isn’t a destination—it’s a continual process. Dr. Moore reminds readers that the seven steps outlined in the book are not one-time fixes but tools to be revisited as life unfolds. She encourages becoming a “lifelong learner,” emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth, reflection, and renewal. This chapter feels like a gentle nudge to stay the course, no matter how many times we stumble.
I’d recommend this book to anyone struggling with transition, loss, or burnout, particularly those whose faith is part of their healing journey. It’s not a self-help book in the traditional sense; it’s more like a long, healing letter from someone who’s been through it and found the light anyway. Moore writes with soul, spirit, and strength. Her journey through MS becomes a ministry of encouragement for the rest of us. This book helped me breathe deeper, think wider, and pray more honestly.
Pages: 132 | ASIN : B0DW4H8XL8
When Jesus Leads – Sequel to When Jesus Calls
Martha Gayle’s When Jesus Leads is a heartfelt and faith-driven novel that follows the journey of Mary, a woman navigating love, trust, and obedience to God in the face of uncertainty. The story unfolds with Mary grappling with her emotions, questioning her choices, and ultimately surrendering her path to divine guidance. At the heart of the novel is her complicated relationship with Jimmy, a man with a troubled past, and her struggle to reconcile her feelings with what she believes God is asking of her. Alongside Mary’s personal journey, the book explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and unwavering faith, all tied together with a strong sense of community and heartfelt relationships.
I was drawn into Mary’s story from the start. There’s something deeply relatable about her hesitation, the internal tug-of-war between fear and faith. One of my favorite moments was when she sat in her office, staring at the storm outside, realizing that life’s storms can be just as unpredictable. The writing makes these moments come alive, and I found myself feeling her anxiety, her longing for clarity, and her quiet strength. The book does a great job of showing that following Jesus doesn’t always mean an easy road, it’s often full of doubt, tough choices, and sacrifices.
What I appreciated most was the authenticity of Mary’s struggle with Jimmy. When Mary wrestles with the question of whether Jimmy is the right person for her and Elizabeth, it feels real. She’s not just swept up in romance, she’s cautious, protective of her daughter, and determined to listen for God’s direction. The moment when she reads Jimmy’s parents’ letter declining to come to his birthday party was gut-wrenching, it showed just how deep the wounds of addiction can go. And yet, Mary’s choice to love him anyway, in whatever way God calls her to, is a powerful testament to grace.
Then there’s the curveball: Michael, Elizabeth’s biological father, suddenly reappears after years of absence. The box he sends, filled with a letter and an unexpected child support check, adds another layer of emotional complexity. Her emotions are raw and justified—how does someone just walk back in after nearly a decade? Yet, instead of focusing solely on bitterness, the book gently steers toward the power of forgiveness. It doesn’t force an easy answer, which I respected. Instead, it lets Mary sit with the weight of her choices, showing how forgiveness is a process, not an instant reaction.
When Jesus Leads is a touching and emotionally rich novel that will resonate deeply with readers who appreciate faith-centered stories about love, second chances, and trusting God’s plan. If you enjoy books with strong moral themes, uplifting messages, and characters who feel like real people struggling with real faith, this one is for you.
Pages: 256 | ASIN : B0DSJJN9L2
Dove & the Dao: Dao De Jing for Christians
In Dove & the Dao, Jason S. Comely presents a compelling fusion of Daoist philosophy and Christian theology, reinterpreting the timeless verses of Lao Tzu’s Dao De Jing through a Christian lens. This book offers a thought-provoking exploration of spiritual concepts, aiming to harmonize Eastern wisdom with Western religious tenets. Each chapter presents a verse from the Dao De Jing, reimagined in the context of Christian doctrine, followed by reflective invitations encouraging readers to integrate these teachings into their daily lives.
Comely’s approach to blending the Dao and the Dove—the Holy Spirit—presents an intriguing perspective on the commonalities between these two spiritual traditions. His writing is contemplative and invites readers to reflect deeply on their spiritual journey. One of the standout aspects of the book is how it seamlessly interweaves the cryptic wisdom of the Dao with Christian principles, making it accessible for readers who may not be familiar with Daoist philosophy.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its practical applications. Each chapter concludes with an “Invitation,” a call to action that encourages readers to apply the combined wisdom of Dao and Christianity to their everyday lives. These invitations provide tangible steps for readers to reflect on and enhance their spiritual practices. This hands-on approach helps bridge the gap between abstract philosophical concepts and daily life, making the book not just a theoretical exploration but a practical guide for personal growth.
Dove & the Dao offers a unique and enriching perspective for readers interested in exploring the intersection of Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. Jason S. Comely’s blend of Daoist and Christian teachings encourages a reflective and harmonious approach to spirituality, making this book a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of both traditions. It’s particularly well-suited for Christians who are curious about Daoist philosophy, or for anyone interested in a more integrated approach to spiritual wisdom.
Pages: 116 | ASIN : B0C6FN525F
Your Identity in Christ
Your Identity in Christ is a devotional penned by the talented writer Robin Revis Pyke, Ph.D. This book is specifically crafted for women who aspire to flourish in their Christian lives by focusing on topics such as faith, redemption, forgiveness, and purpose. The author has skillfully incorporated a reflective moment after each section. This section includes thought-provoking questions that encourage readers to ponder their thoughts and actions while contemplating ways to serve their community.
The tone of the devotional is commendable, as the author delicately addresses complex issues, such as God’s expectations, without being judgmental or condemning towards readers. Throughout the book, readers are able to feel the author’s compassion and love for them. Additionally, the author touches upon contemporary culture and raises compelling points about how readers should follow their faith instead of current trends. This devotional covers several fundamental topics, making it an ideal read for those who are new to Christianity. However, readers who have a deeper understanding of the Bible may find the topics covered familiar. Despite this, the book contains several noteworthy points that are well-written and relatable to everyday life.
Your Identity in Christ is an insightful and well-crafted devotional addressing pertinent issues women face today. I highly recommend this book to women who are seeking to deepen their knowledge of Christianity or gain a better understanding of the Bible. In addition, I highly recommend this book for its engaging content and impressive writing style.
Pages: 104 | ASIN : B0C1HG1WG7
Experiences of a Lifetime
Donald Brown’s book Experiences of a Lifetime is a memoir of his life. At the age of 88, he wrote a book that tells the stories he has experienced since his childhood as a farm kid living in New Mexico to various places not only in the USA but also in Europe and elsewhere in the world. He studied at Eastern New Mexico University, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and worked in several different positions, including president of a pharmaceutical company, national sales director, director of missions, and pastor.
All the stories and experiences that the author of the book shares with the reader are not chronological, but it does not affect the quality of the content in any way; in fact, it gives you a greater picture of his life when you finish the book and reflect on it. Experiences such as being assaulted by thieves in Egypt while visiting the pyramids, which eventually led to a new opportunity, helping people who survived hurricanes in several places, watching the sun ceremony of the Ute tribe, educational Hawaiian experience, and ordinary daily situations that will convince you that even in the little things there are hidden strong messages. The experiences that Brown shares are sometimes breathtaking. Each of his stories has a reference to the holy scriptures, as the author says, “in the hope that the reader will receive a practical benefit,” and in several cases, a powerful lesson.
Experiences of a Lifetime is a poignant memoir and inspirational story. It is written in an engaging but light style; quotations and references to holy scriptures do not feel like a sermon but rather like the narration of an acquaintance who tries to advise you in various situations and directs you more toward God. If you like traveling and short stories and are open to perceiving the world in a way other than logic, it is worth reading this book.
Pages: 180 | ASIN : B07Q5LXCKC
LITERARY TITAN 