Tag Archives: trials

Book Review & a Giveaway: 7 Trials Every Woman Faces

7 Trials Every Woman Faces

Kathy Carlton Willis has completed her most vulnerable book, yet. 7 Trials Every Woman Faces comes packed with her wisdom, softened by wit and a wish for every woman to be affirmed in the trenches of life.

Author of Grin with Grace, The Grin Gal’s Guide to Joy, and The Ultimate Speaker’s Guide, Kathy Carlton Willis is an industry pro in the book world. Her work as a conference speaker spreads across the country as she coaches writers to a higher level of excellence.

In 7 Trials Every Woman Faces, Kathy comes alongside the reader by tackling times:

  • When I’m Doubted
  • When I’m Disrespected
  • When I’m Deserted
  • When I’m Deceived
  • When I’m Disappointed
  • When I’m Disabled
  • When I’m Destitute

If ever there was a year we needed encouragement, this is the one. Kathy’s approach to trials is realistic in the tough grace needed to confront them, as well as warm compassion to get through them. She acknowledges our best intentions are often misunderstood, but reminds us that only when we deal with our own struggles are we in a position to help others. This is the kind of honest talk you get when you read Kathy’s words, and yet find the frankness cushioned in the loving embrace of a friend. I love the way Kathy pulls truths from God’s Word to enhance our encounters with relationships and real life scenarios. And in the process, endears us to each other along the path.

I am giving away a copy of 7 Trials Every Woman Faces to one reader in the continental United States. Leave a comment on my blog (at the top of this post, under the title). You will be entered into the drawing to be held on Saturday, December 19. And may your Christmas hold the promise of peace and the presence of Christ!

Sally

Disclaimer:  I received an Advance Reader’s Copy from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Kathy’s Interview with Marnie Swedberg


Bible Study Review: Grin with Grace

Grin with Grace

When suffering hits, the last thing I want to do is grin; rejoice; be content. But Kathy Carlton Willis contends we not only will do those things, but we will thank the Lord for the trials that grow us. Her book, Grin With Grace is a call to return to the Source of life, the One who can use all things for His good purposes.

Kathy is well versed in the suffering department. From health issues to the nitty gritty of living life, she knows the need for a dose of joy. Her goal is to help all of us who feel so far from the goal. Is it a lofty goal? I don’t think so, because the pursuit of wisdom brings us closer to the One who gives it freely to those who ask. And that’s a good place to be.

Grin With Grace is sectioned off into humorous real-life stories, Bible study, life-application steps, turning faith into ministry and challenging scenarios to consider. The sections invite journaling and that reflection invites action. Never does she leave us to sit on our discoveries, but pushes us to share them with others. Our women’s group found the conversation starters helpful and the personal approach to faith, endearing. We used the material as a springboard toward more transparency in our faith and encouragement of each other. The last chapter, especially, created an opportunity to voice our support through benediction, or blessing.

One of the ways Kathy teaches us about the dependability of Grace, is to cause us to look at the effects of our promises. Do we say what we mean, and mean what we say? She calls us to a higher accountability as we mirror the character of God. And such is the tough love found throughout the book; spoken with compassion, yet straight and to the point. She reminds us to seek the One who is enough, so that we won’t try to be sufficient in our own resources. And that is the power in Grin With Grace; truth cushioned with kindness and love.

Make time for this study on grace. It will open your worldview to the characteristics of a grace-filled life, and equip you to look for the touches of God in grace-filled moments!

Sally

Check out the Bible Study Expo, for an interview with Kathy Carlton Willis!