Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Finding Spiritual Whitespace by Bonnie Gray - REVIEWED



About the Book:  
Move beyond Surviving to a Rejuvenating Place of Soul Rest
How many of us find ourselves running on empty with no time for rest, no time for ourselves, no time for God?  

Bonnie Gray knows what that's like. On the brink of fulfilling a lifelong dream, she saw her plans shatter into a journey through painful memories and anxiety. In her search for answers, she made an important discovery: we all need spiritual whitespace.

Whitespace.
 It's the space on a page left unmarked. Untouched. Whitespace makes art beautiful. It gives the eye a place to rest. Just like beautiful art, our souls need balance and beauty.      

With heartbreaking honesty, Bonnie guides you to discover a better story for yourself, one that feeds your soul and makes room for rest. Infused with biblical encouragement and thought-provoking prompts, this book shows us how to create space in the everyday for God, refreshment, and faith--right in the midst of our stress-frayed lives.

My Thoughts:
But there comes a time when it takes more faith to fall apart with Jesus that to stay strong enough to stop it from happening.”  (p. 32)

Bonnie Gray was unable to stop the crippling effects  of PTSD.  It has been her journey through this disorder that has allowed her to discover how to truly rest in Christ.  Bonnie has written an almost painfully transparent view into her life’s journey as she heals from the trauma that triggered her debilitating panic attacks.  Through her journey she shares truths that God has led her to all along the way.  She shares Scripture, insights on events and counseling that has prompted her to look more deeply into God’s Word and her faith.  She draws readers close to God’s heart and encourages them to trust the Truth that is found in Christ alone.

Each chapter is broken up into sections that encourages the reader to pause and consider what you have read.   The chapters end with prompts for sharing, writing, discussion and prayer.  This gives this book endless possibilities!  You can use this as an individual study, a small group study, or, if applicable, use it with the guidance of a counselor.  This is a book that will create opportunities for growth and a more vibrant and intimate relationship with Christ.

I’ve highlighted this book to death!  I can highly recommend this for everyone.  I close with this thought from page 80: “Spiritual whitespace is a journey to discover the authentic you.”  AMEN!

About the Author:
Bonnie Gray is the soulful writer behind faithbarista.com, serving up shots of faith for the daily grind. Her work is featured on DaySpring (in)courage and nationally syndicated on Crosswalk.com. After graduating from UCLA, Bonnie served as a missionary, ministry entrepreneur, and Silicon Valley high-tech professional. She lives in Northern California with her husband, Eric, and their two sons.

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