Book Review: Living with Thorns
By Mary Ann Froelich
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Overview:
Do you have a “thorn” in your life that you just can’t seem to overcome? Froelich addresses a number of topics including despair, loneliness, illness, a broken heart, fear, and living with permanent loss. Unlike many Christians, she is not afraid of discussing the hard topics. She uses numerous real-life examples to connect each topic with the reader. Part 1 discusses the various thorns many experience in their lives. Part 2 shows the reader how to biblically respond to these thorns.
Favorite Quotes:
“Sometimes we allow ourselves to become confused when out emotions of fear over frightening events cause us to forget who our enemy really is. We face earthly enemies, but our one true enemy is the destroyer of our souls. God is already victorious, telling us, ‘Do not be afraid'” (p.72-73).
“Victim mentality may be comfortable at times, but it is ultimately destructive. Some people find their identity in being victims of tough circumstances. Instead, we want to be hopeful people who completely trust in God, not defeated, resigned people who have given up” (p.102).
“True forgiveness is a miracle. It is impossible to experience authentic healing apart from God. Forgiveness is unnatural. Seeking revenge is our natural human response. Seeking the best for someone who harmed us is a miraculous act. We are most Christlike when we forgive” (p.151).
Concluding Remarks:
In the beginning of the book, Froelich gives a number of real-life illustrations. While I appreciate how she seeks to make each topic relevant, many times the stories/illustrations lack a biblical resolution. Using illustrations is vital, however, it is important to draw biblical principles or conclusions from them.
The first part of the book left the reader hanging as to offering biblical solutions for overcoming each problem addressed. The second half of the book, however, was much more practical and filled in the gaps where the first section left the reader wanting.
The second half of the book was very insightful and offered much practical help. The two chapters on forgiveness were especially useful. I highly recommend reading these chapters even if you don’t read the rest of the book!
Froelich addresses many hard to discuss topics. This may be triggering for some or too much for others. If you have experienced some of these issues, I do believe this book will be insightful and helpful.
Disclaimer: Froelich uses a number of Bible versions, many of which I am not familiar. I only personally use and recommend the Authorized KJV for English speaking people. I highly encourage you to look up the verses mentioned in your Bible as you read this book.
Available for Purchase:
Living with Thorns: A Biblical Survival Guide
By Mary Ann Froelich / Discovery House
Like the apostle Paul, do you have a thorn in your life that just won’t go away? Offering comfort, encouragement, and tangible survival tools, Froelich will help you face your hardship—whether it’s a chronic illness, difficult marriage, depression, addiction, or more. Find the miraculous in your life and fight the despair that accompanies your pain. 208 pages, softcover from Barbour.