We grow when life steals our control.
Live. Like. Jesus.
As Christians we hear it all the time, “We should strive to be more and more like Jesus.”
Really? How hard is that!
My friend, Mary DeMuth, says it best, “How can we, people weighed down by insecurity and sin and stress, live like Jesus?”
Ever feel like it’s impossible to turn it over to God once and for all? The hurt, the confusion, the past, the future?
Mary understands.
Mary is a beautiful reflection of God’s permeating grace, her once-hurting heart now shining a redemptive red. Author of 14 books, she has long served as my mentor with her authentic real-woman words offering me a plumb line for this Jesus life, this life of hope and healing. Early on Mary played a pivotal role in my own healing journey as she penetrated the places I didn’t allow others to see. In the depths of her story, I found the courage to tell mine—no surface mining for this gal as she runs deep.
Mary uncovers the secret to living like Jesus in her new book, Everything: What You Give and What You Gain to Become Like Jesus. I read an advance copy this month; I’m thrilled it officially releases this week. Par for Mary (unafraid to step into the messy), this book confronts our battles with the truth of God’s Word.
As she navigates us to the answer, Mary unfolds a journey of hope—a hope that stems from God’s sovereignty. She lovingly challenges ingrained beliefs as they relate to what we think, who we are, and how we live.
The secret? Give Him everything (including control!) and receive everything He has to offer.
Spiritual growth is hard work. In Everything, Mary teases that unsettled yet slightly complacent spot inside all of us. Will we run, or will we bravely rise to the challenge? Will we dare to believe? Forgive? Surrender?
This is not a condemning could-never-live-it-out book packed with unattainable, perfectionist Christianity; this book is an invitation to go deeper still in genuine and intimate relationship with One who has already surrendered all for us.
What does it take to grow in Christ? Everything we have, but it’s oh so worth it.
Grab the book, a new highlighter (trust me, you’ll need it), and an eagerness to learn (no matter your spiritual age). One of my favorite highlights? We grow when life steals our control. Disturbingly beautiful, isn’t it?
Want a test drive first? Download the introduction and chapter one here.
Let’s look at the Everything trailer!
Jo Ann Fore is an author, teacher, book-freak, and fun friend. She is the founder of the vibrant virtual community Write Where It Hurts where women gather for support, encouragement, and practical tools to live a joyful, purpose-filled life. Jo Ann’s upcoming book, When A Woman Finds Her Voice, releases Fall 2013.
I am a self admitted control freak. I appreciate not only Mary’s heart- but her ability to help me navigate the land of me… To be closer to HE- who created me, knows me and loves me. He is my everything. I just need to decrease until it is no longer me. Loved the post Jo Ann!!!
Love you both!! So excited for this book!! A breath of fresh air, in the midst if a stuffy situation! Perfect!!!
Oh girl, do I understand the control issues only too well. And how beautifully Mary navigates us through the journey of surrender! Thanks for sharing, Aj.
Wonderful post. I have loved Mary’s books for years because I can relate to each and every one in different ways. I can’t wait to get my copy of her latest!
Yes, Carla, my shelves are decorated with Mary’s books as well. 🙂 This. Is. My. Favorite.
Thank you for this. I’m feeling small tonight, especially after Allume, where I got a bit overwhelmed at wanting to talk to everyone and be there for everyone. I’m a little tired. So it’s good to hear the book has impact.
I have been an avid follower of Mary for several years. I loved Thin Places and I am thorougly enjoying Everything. Mary doesn’t mince words but she never condemns the reader but only leads with love. I love Mary and her books. Great book once again.