You're strong. You're responsible. You're good. But . . .
. . . as day fades to dusk, you begin to feel the familiar fog of anxiety, the weight and pressure of holding it together and of longing left unmet. Good girls sometimes feel that the Christian life means doing hard work with a sweet disposition. We tend to focus only on the things we can handle, our disciplined lives, and our unshakable good moods. But what would happen if we let grace pour out boundless acceptance into our worn-out hearts and undo us? If we dared to talk about the ways we hide, our longing to be known, and the fear in the knowing?
In Grace for the Good Girl, Emily Freeman invites you to release your tight hold on that familiar, try-hard life and lean your weight heavy into the love of Jesus. With an open hand, a whimsical style, and a heart bent brave toward adventure, Emily encourages you to move from your own impossible expectations toward the God who has graciously, miraculously, and lovingly found you.
I read the first chapter of this book yesterday and I’m hooked. I wouldn’t necessarily call myself a “Good Girl”, I think I more easily associate with feeling like the, “Not Quite Good Enough Girl.” Either way, lately, I’ve been on a quest to learn more about the true nature of God’s grace. I can’t wait to dive in further!
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Jesus is not interested in having us become his fans.
Are you a follower of Jesus? Don't answer too quickly. In fact, you may want to read this book before you answer at all. Consider it a 'Define the Relationship' conversation to determine exactly where you stand. You may indeed be a passionate, fully devoted follower of Jesus. Or, you may be just a fan who admires Jesus but isn't ready to let him cramp your style. Then again, maybe you're not into Jesus, period. In any case, don't take the question, “Are you a follower of Jesus?” lightly. Some people don't know what they've said yes to and other people don't realize what they've said no to, says Pastor Kyle Idleman. But Jesus is ready to clearly define the relationship he wants with his followers. Not a Fan calls you to consider the demands and rewards of being a true disciple. With frankness sprinkled with humor, Idleman invites you to live the way Jesus lived, love the way he loved, pray the way he prayed, and never give up living for the One who gave his all for you.
I was drawn to this book for its simple and unassuming cover and title. As soon as I read the back cover, I just knew I had to read it. It just so happens in my bible study this week, we’ve been discussing the cost of discipleship. In my opinion, more and more churches across America are presenting a watered down and comfy version of Christianity. Who really wants that? Some of us long to follow Christ more fully and seek out those who can biblically challenge us to do so. I’m scared to death but at the same time, I can’t wait to read this book! At the end of the day, we all have a choice to make. Are we going to surrender it all and wholeheartedly be a follower of Christ or are we simply satisfied with cheering from the sidelines?
I don’t want to be just a fan of Jesus. Do you?
I patiently waited all week to visit our local Family Christian Book Store. The frugal me, knew they were about to have a 50% off sale on selected books (smile). I look forward to sharing some insights with you as I delve a little deeper into my new books.
Oh, happy reading!
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