In my three decades on this earth, I have been blessed with relatively good health.
But you know, not everyone can say that.
My online friend Shelly is one of those gals.
For the majority of her life, she lived what society might call “normal.” But a few years ago, her health took an unexpected turn.
It’s kind of a long story, but in short, sweet Shelly is now what she calls “chronically ill.” She struggles daily with things/tasks/life experiences that I can’t even comprehend.
However, that hasn’t stopped her from sharing about all things Jesus.
She has recently written her first book– and I have the incredible privilege of reviewing it.
Although I never hesitated when I said I would share her book on my blog, in the back of my mind, I wondering how it could minister to *me* aka a person who does not struggle with chronic illness.
Well my friends– let’s just say– it deeply, deeply touched my heart.
And besides– statistics show that 1 of every 2 people live with a chronic condition of some sort. About 96% of those people suffer in silence with an invisible illness.
In Shelly’s book “You’re Chronically Ill… So Now What?” she shares truths that ALL of us can benefit from, regardless of our heath status.
Over all, it’s a relatively easy read, set up in a 30-day devotional style format. (Although it was so could I couldn’t just read one entry a day!! It worked great to just read it straight through too…)
Each entry has a story, experience or even a practical tip on how to deal with chronic illness. Then she presents four questions at the end to make us go a little bit deeper, coupled with a customized prayer for that particular entry.
I was very impressed with the variety of topics she was able to cover in just “thirty days” of literature. She talks about the good stuff and finding joy. Shelly touches on the hard stuff, giving permission to grieve. She shares tangible tips, tricks and suggestions on how to cope with all things chronic illness.
She is a very personable writer, which I (obviously) appreciate. The pages are full of emotions– joyful, sad, scared, encouraging, hopeful, angry, positive.
I was very, very impressed with the book over all. Shelly did an excellent job!
And now, I want to share this great book with you! (See below to enter and win a free copy of her book, “You’re Chronically Ill… So Now What?”)
Also, be sure to connect with Shelly on her blog over at Renewed Daily.
Even if you personally don’t suffer from some type of chronic illness, odds are that you know someone who does. Please consider blessing them with this powerful vessel of Christ’s great truths that we ALL need to hear, regardless of our health status.
Take my word for it, dear readers. While this book might not have complete power to heal your body, it sure can do some great work to heal your heart.
Encouraged in Christ,
“Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” ~2 Corinthians 4:16 NIV
