When Dabney and Jason thought
that their marriage would fall apart, they had pretty concerning and happy
news: growing in Dabney’s body, there were a tumor and a baby… The diagnosis kicks off a rollercoaster of
events so drastic that often seem impossible to bear; so much pain and hope
mixed together and the story of a woman who refused to give up and chose to
grow closer to God along with her husband, despite the most dreadful and
challenging circumstances. In a nutshell, this book is Dabney’s memoir of ten
years in and out of life-threatening episodes and her personal struggle with
financial crisis, infertility, long-term hospitalization, no house, adoption
and even social rejection.
I must say that I have been
having issues completing this review. I
just cannot seem to find the right words to describe the amazing way in which
God intervened in Dabney’s life. Dabney went from a person who liked control and frequently sought other people's approval to complete surrender and freedom. It all started when a woman told her: "...there's
nothing you can do to change your circumstances," she said. "There is
only one person in control. It's not you. Once you realize this, life
gets a lot easier." (page 82). The pain, the illnesses and even separation from her kids were horrible and I cannot imagine going through what Dabney went through, but the transformation in her and her husband's heart and the way her restored faith and strengthened life has blessed mine is a precious encouragement and a reminder that God is sovereign and cares for us in every circumstance.
This brings me to the fact that, although this book focuses on Dabney's point of view, her husband also goes through a marvelous reassurance of his relationship with Christ. His care for Dabney and their kids reflects an authentic love, reminding us of God's love for His church. In this sense, the book is also a strong evidence of the relevance -and need- of a God-centered marriage in our society.
Regarding her technique, Dabney has a very easy, friendly
way of writing. Reading this book felt
like having a conversation with an old friend.
It is all just plain honest, the good, the bad, the struggle, the
disbelief and the faith, all rolled together in a tight ball that keeps rolling
and rolling and rolling…
This is a highly recommendable book that will encourage those in need of comfort during hard times, whatever these could be.
I received a complimentary copy
of the book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest
review. This has not influenced my
opinion on the book or on the author.
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