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
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
You Are 100% Unique
Purpose Made: 12 Steps to Discovering Your God-given Purpose and Living an Abundant Life is a thought-provoking book that takes readers on a journey of introspection and self-discovery. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I think most people would agree that we are living in a broken and hurting world. We are constantly bombarded with negativity – through the news, devastating weather events, personal challenges and tragedies. It’s easy to get disillusioned with life and wonder what’s it all for? There has never been a more important time to talk about, and live out, our ‘purpose’. Once you can discover the purpose that is already inside of you, your life will begin to make sense amid the chaos in the world around you. You will become outward-focused and have direction. ‘Purpose Made’ has been written for right now, at at time when people need it the most.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
That you are 100% unique. There is no-one else on this planet with your set of talents, gifts, passions, loves, fire and assignments. You have been created by a loving God for a reason – a one-of-a-kind purpose that no-one else can contribute to the world. That this purpose was predestined before you were born and is waiting for you to discover what it is, and then move forward with a renewed confidence in yourself, in life, and in God. Working through ‘Purpose Made’ will bring you a sense of hope and excitement, and an understanding of why you are incredibly special.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
When I write a book I keep writing until I feel the book is complete. There are no timelines or deadlines, but I know when it’s done. May aim, with ‘Purpose Made’ was to bring both a holistic and Biblical view to the topic of ‘purpose’. We often read books about gifts, or goals or self-discovery, which are great but are only components of the whole picture. ‘Purpose Made’ takes all of the many facets of purpose and weaves them together in one place, and looks at purpose through God’s eyes, using Biblical scripture as anchor points.
What is one thing that you hope the readers take away from Purpose Made?
A sense of relief. I wrote, in ‘Purpose Made’, about a study that was done to determine the best emotion, which was voted to be ‘relief’. Relief could be what it feels like when you finally get clarity on God’s purpose for your life. Or, when you start to strip away limiting mindsets and begin to move in new-found freedom. Relief could also be when you finally see yourself as God sees you – strong, amazing, loved and created for a reason.
Author Links: Website | YouTube | Instagram
Did you know that you are special? You are unique.
There is no one on this great, big, beautiful planet like you. In all eternity, there has never been another person with your unique DNA; your set of experiences; and your combination of gifts, talents and passions.
Did you also know that God knew exactly the circumstances you would be born into, the people you would grow up with, go to school with, socialise and work with? Your place in time is no accident.
You have been created to make a never-seen-before (and never-to-be-seen-again) contribution to this world – your world. But what if you don’t know your gifts or purpose? This book will give you a 12-step guide to help you sort through your unknowns, doubts and past and help you see yourself as God sees you – an incredible person He created on purpose and for a purpose.
That’s you, purpose made.
Purpose Made: 12 steps to discovering your God-given purpose and living an abundant life
In Purpose Made: 12 Steps to Discovering Your God-given Purpose and Living an Abundant Life, Sarah Ritchie offers an insightful exploration into finding and embracing one’s purpose, tailored for a diverse audience navigating various life stages. The book serves as a beacon of motivation, encouraging readers to perceive life from a fresh perspective. Ritchie’s approach is both nurturing and instructive, providing wisdom and a practical roadmap for overcoming life’s hurdles.
Ritchie begins with a fundamental question, “Why are we here?” which, though common, she delves into with a thought-provoking depth. The discussion extends beyond a simple existential query, prompting readers to introspect about their existence, purpose, and potential to make an impact. Ritchie’s narrative is anchored in a Christian worldview but is inclusive, emphasizing the uniqueness and significance of every individual, regardless of their religious beliefs.
The core of Ritchie’s book is her 12-step framework, which comprehensively addresses various aspects of self-discovery and personal growth. The steps encompass understanding one’s foundational values, personality traits, innate gifts, talents, passions, and practical skills. Ritchie clearly distinguishes between gifts and talents, an often confusing concept for many. The inclusion of the ‘Purpose Discovery Wheel’ is a notable feature, offering readers a visual tool to better comprehend and apply the book’s teachings.
Ritchie’s writing is not limited to the 12 steps; she also touches upon essential themes like faith, making informed life choices, understanding modern-day pitfalls, and the importance of personal journey and letting go. The book is imbued with spiritual references, skillfully balanced with practical advice. Ritchie’s ability to weave spiritual elements with real-world guidance makes Purpose Made a compelling read for those seeking both spiritual and practical wisdom.
Purpose Made is more than a self-help guide; it is a journey of introspection and enlightenment. Ritchie’s narrative is both uplifting and grounding, making the book a valuable resource for anyone at a crossroads or in search of deeper meaning in life.
Pages: 268 | ASIN : B0CL32Y2M3
A Hypnotizing World: Discovering an Unshakable Hope in a Confusing Culture
A Hypnotizing World by Weston A. Knudtson is a reflective exploration of human existence, delving into the complexities of reality, spirituality, and the essence of biblical teachings. Knudtson invites readers to question the fabric of our understanding, focusing on the deep-seated misconceptions that have long influenced humanity. The book is structured into two parts: the first examines the widespread illusion obscuring our perception of the world, and the second navigates towards recognizing and accepting truth.
Throughout the book, Knudtson adeptly examines a range of topics, including fear, emotions, societal status, and their collective impact on our view of reality. His insights offer clarity on the divine role in our lives, highlighting the concepts of purpose and truth from a Christian perspective. This work is notable for its capacity to provoke enduring contemplation. Knudtson’s musings on the cyclical nature of history and the role of emotion and faith in our lives encourage deep, personal introspection. The book’s engaging style, marked by a conversational tone, renders complex theological and philosophical ideas more approachable, thus maintaining the reader’s engagement.
A noteworthy aspect of A Hypnotizing World is its integration of biblical scriptures. These references serve not only as anchors to core gospel tenets but also as points of personal reflection. The author’s use of specific verses, such as Hebrews 11:1, provides meaningful touchpoints for readers exploring their faith. Knudtson’s work is particularly relevant for those seeking insights into humanity’s fundamental challenges, ranging from conflict to mental health issues and ethical dilemmas. The book is rich with actionable insights, thought-provoking queries, and meticulously chosen scriptural excerpts. It is an invitation to reengage with spiritual values and embark on a journey of discovery and faith.
A Hypnotizing World is a thoughtful and accessible guide for anyone interested in exploring the intersections of faith, reality, and human purpose. Its inclusive approach makes it a valuable read for both Christians and those new to Christian teachings, offering a perspective that is both enlightening and inspiring.
Pages: 138 | ASIN : B0CL3R1M55
LITERARY TITAN 