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When Your World Falls Apart: See Past the Pain of the Present by Jeremiah, Dr. David

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Drawing on his insightful sermon series, renowned pastor/teacher David Jeremiah shares the comfort and hope of the Psalms and how these truths can guide believers through life's greatest challenges. He includes inspiring real-life stories of people who have struggled with terminal illness, the loss of a child, or the imprisonment of a spouse. Jeremiah interweaves his own journal entries, revealing his battle with cancer and how the Psalms helped to sustain him during the fight of his life. When Your World Falls Apart is an invaluable source of help and encouragement for people facing major obstacles in life.

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First published October 21, 2004

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About the author

David Jeremiah

800 books866 followers
Dr. David Jeremiah, founder of Turning Point Radio and Television Ministries and senior pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church, felt God’s calling on his life at a very early age. Born February 13, 1941 in Toledo, Ohio, Dr. Jeremiah was raised in a family deeply committed to ministry. At the age of eleven, Dr. Jeremiah and his family moved to Dayton, Ohio where his father, Dr. James T. Jeremiah, was the Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church, and in 1953 became the President of Cedarville College in Cedarville, Ohio.


As Dr. Jeremiah was sensitive to God’s leading in his life, he followed in his father’s footsteps. In 1963, Dr. Jeremiah received a Bachelor of Arts from Cedarville College. In that same year, Dr. Jeremiah married his college sweetheart, Donna Thompson who also was attending Cedarville College as a business major. He went on to earn a Masters degree in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1967. He completed additional graduate work at Grace University and was granted the Doctor of Divinity degree from Cedarville College in 1981.



In 1969, Dr. Jeremiah began Blackhawk Baptist Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and developed a Christian school grades K through 12. In the 12 years he served as pastor, Blackhawk Baptist Church grew from 7 families to 1300 members. He also launched The Bible Hour television program.



Dr. Jeremiah heeded God’s call, and in 1981 he and his family moved to California where he became the senior pastor of Scott Memorial Baptist Church, now Shadow Mountain Community Church.



Shadow Mountain Community Church is one of the largest churches in San Diego County. It is also the home of Southern California Seminary and Christian Unified Schools.



As Dr. Jeremiah began his ministry at Shadow Mountain, he felt God’s calling to continue the broadcast ministry he started in Fort Wayne. In 1982, Turning Point Ministries became a reality.



Today, Turning Point's 30-minute radio program is heard nationally and internationally on over 1800 stations and translator/satellators. In recognition of Dr. Jeremiah’s commitment to teaching the Word of God, he received the Broadcaster of the Year Award in 1999 from the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), in August 2002, received the Award of Merit from the Western Chapter of National Religious Broadcasters for Excellence in Broadcasting and Faithfulness in Service, and in 2006 Turning Point received the Best Radio Teaching Program Award. Dr. Jeremiah has served on the Board of Directors for the NRB since 1996.



Turning Point launched a television program in 1982 in San Diego and went nationwide in 2000. Now seen around the world through cable and satellite technology, as well as on terrestrial stations all across the United States, conservative estimates suggest that close to 200 million homes around the world have access to Dr. Jeremiah's Bible teaching each week. Turning Point Television offers a half-hour Bible study message and a full hour worship service with the same great preaching. Carried on several national and international networks such as TBN, ION, and INSP, Turning Point Television has most recently been added to Middle East TV Network and BET, the Black Entertainment Network.



Dr. Jeremiah is a sought-after conference speaker for organizations around the country. He frequently speaks at Cedarville College, Dallas Theological Seminary, Moody Bible Institute, Billy Graham Training Center, Phil Waldrep’s Senior Adult Celebrations and numerous NFL, NBA and Baseball chapels.



Along with his speaking schedule around the country, Dr. Jeremiah also finds time to fulfill another passion in his life, writing. His books are always gripping and right to the point. Some of his books include Escape the Coming Night, The Power of Encouragement, What the Bible Says About Angels, Prayer The Great Adventure, which brought him The Gold Medallion Award in 1998, God In You, Gifts from God

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60 (27%)
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Sandra.
1,497 reviews23 followers
December 15, 2017
We were given this book by a very dear friend when he learned my husband has Hodgkin Lymphoma. Dr. Jeremiah's words and story was like a healing balm to our hurting heart and spirit. He shares stories from his life as well as some very close friends taking this or a similar hard journey. I read a couple previous negative reviews, which I didn't understand or agree with. So I must warn you, this book contains scripture verses, it is written by a wonderful Godly pastor! It also contains hope, help, encouragement and comfort. I would recommend this book for anyone going through a very difficult time in their life. Especially dealing with cancer of any kind or any other life threatening decease. This book was such a help for my husband and myself. I believe it this book so much, if I had the money I would purchase and offer it to anyone who can't afford it.
Profile Image for Sandra.
1,133 reviews47 followers
September 14, 2024
I think I read this book years ago, as there was a story at the very end which was quite familiar to me. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it as part of my morning devotions and would be happy to read it again. There is so much to dwell on in this book which is mostly based on ten popular Psalms. Here are some of my thoughts:- Psalm 46: My thoughts!
Though wars continue around the world, there is still God!
Though loved ones are lost before their life on earth even begin, there is still God!
Though the rich amass much, and the poor are homeless, there is still God!
Though the glaciers break apart and fall in the sea causing floods, there is still God!
Though politicians lie, cheat, steal, brag, fight, molest, there is still God!
Though we go walking, grocery shopping, family groups, even to church, and no one notices us or speaks to us, there is still God!
Though our children yell and scream or even do horrible things to harm others, there is still God!
We Rant, we Rave, we Scream, we Twitter, we TikTok, we Instagram, we Facebook, we Rally, we March, we Talk, we Post, we Discuss, we Pray, and all those things will or may serve a purpose, but always remember this - 'The Lord of hosts is with us, The God of Jacob is our refuge.' God has a plan, and he will complete His plan. Pray for help to remain in His will always.

Thank you to David Jeremiah for sharing your pain and your joy.
Profile Image for Brian Meadows.
125 reviews
July 11, 2020
This is an excellent read now as many of us feel that the world is falling apart and our world with it. It is a help in dealing with whatever may be going on in your life if you allow God to speak to you through the scriptures that helped David Jeremiah. The book is an open sharing from Pastor Davis Jeremiah of his experiences as he fought for his life with cancer. He didn't realize anything was wrong with him when it was discovered during a routine physical exam that he had cancer. It was a shock and it changed his world. He leads the reader through his journey, imparting what he learned and the Scriptures that he drew on for strength.

His focus is on certain Psalms. As he gets into it, he precedes each chapter with a selected chapter from Psalms. In the chapter, he lays out the background in the life of David that prompted him to write the Psalm and how he talked (or sang) to God. He explains each verse in that light and works in how he applied it in his life. It would make for an excellent devotional. I found myself stopping and reading the referenced Bible chapters and sometimes others with more insight. So, it took me longer to get through the book than it would take just reading through it as it is easy to read and well written. That is a good thing - far better than charging through. I very highly recommend this book for help with whatever life may bring you.
173 reviews
May 15, 2021
The theme of this book is great. The author is admirable, especially as a speaker and teacher. His use of the Psalms in conveying hope in the midst of deep trials is commendable. The book, however, seemed to drone on a bit.

Honestly, as a series of sermons, this would be powerful. The personal examples shared, both from his own life and the lives of others, were very effective. Unfortunately, wading through the sub-points became tedious enough that this reader began scanning - reading the first paragraph of a section, then the first sentence of subsequent paragraphs, to get the gist of things, rather than reading it all.

The study guide for this book was useful for a Men’s Bible Study. The book is recommended, especially for those currently in the midst of struggles.
Profile Image for Ted Tate.
2 reviews1 follower
November 22, 2018
Been going through the most difficult trial of my life these past 6 months and this book has been a true lifesaver. I had listened and read over 100 books in the first 5 months of 2018 when my life suddenly and unexpectedly fell apart. And reading became the last thing I cared about; but this was one of the few books that could hold my attention and it’s truly blessed me.

And I’m not even a David Jeremiah fan.

If I could give it 6 stars I would.
Profile Image for Mike Rybak.
43 reviews3 followers
December 20, 2021
Using the Psalms to help you navigate troubles.

Fabulous book to help guide you through the difficult times of life. Sometimes life can be too hard and sad to move forward. God seems to be a million miles away from us during that time. Jeremiah sheds light on several Psalms creating deeper meaning and shows us that we are not alone. The Psalms will be my go-to when I have hard times. Highly recommend reading.
Profile Image for Gregsie.
89 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2020
I enjoyed Dr. Jeremiah's writing style. His writing was informal, using illustrations and humor. I didnt feel like I was reading a sermon which is the case with pastor authors.
I found the book to be encouraging. Reading about other people going through trials can be a help when going through one yourself.
22 reviews
January 2, 2023
Awesome, uplifting book.


This was a great story of Dr. Jeremiah's struggle against cancer. Especially liked the scripture verses included. I have watched Turning Point for years and always enjoy it.
735 reviews
March 8, 2025
So good. God bless you, David Jeremiah, for speaking about God and all the hardships on this journey toward Heaven. I needed this book so badly at this bend in my road. It was a lifeline. I hope it will be for you too, future readers. I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Harold Harkin.
50 reviews
July 7, 2020
Great Book

Really enjoyed reading this book Dr David Jeremiah at his best looking forward to his other books. Really enjoy his books learn so much from them.
3 reviews
August 14, 2021
God Blessed!

Incredibly helpful during a tough time with grief. Also, it helped me with evaluating all the problems caused by the pandemic.
40 reviews
November 4, 2021
A great book full of personal insight due to the cancer diagnosis the author went through. For each chapter, he takes a Psalm and breaks it down, sharing wonderful Holy Spirit-inspired teaching.
11 reviews
February 12, 2025
Helpful book to get through grief using the psalms and personal stories
Profile Image for Amanda Himes.
274 reviews16 followers
May 31, 2025
David Jeremiah's study of King David's life and select Psalms was a balm to my soul during these months of oral chemo. Jeremiah's own fight against cancer--and also occasional stories from other people going through arduous times--lifted my spirits. His honest journal entries echoed some of my thoughts, such as: " . . . wondering if I'll ever feel 100% again".

Some of my favorite quotes:
"Suffering and strength are two sides of the same coin."
"Learn to praise God regardless of your personal circumstances."
"Ask God to move into the midst of this situation and do something that only HE can do."
****
Editing on 5/31/25 to add that the wife of my brother Nathan's best friend, who mailed this book to me last year, has passed from breast cancer. Her family is on my mind and heart.
Profile Image for Michelle Butlig.
28 reviews4 followers
March 21, 2013
Seeing Past the Pain of the Present
Wonderful book by Pastor David Jeremiah writes through his experiences with cancer and loss. Loved that each chapter began with a Psalm and then he brought us deeper into the pain, healing, comfort and encouragement of the Psalm through dealing with grief in your life. Psalm for a Dark Night, When God delays, Worship in Times of trouble, Triumph over trouble and the Best is yet to come - a few of the chapters.... Very comforting book, brought peace and comfort to my soul and continually focused me back upon The Lord and His sovereignty and care for me.
Profile Image for Eric Swanson.
Author 6 books8 followers
February 13, 2014
The part I enjoyed must about the book was how David Jeremiah used his personal story of how he was at the point of his world falling apart. It came through cancer. For others it may be something else, but we all have been at the place where our world falls apart and the only place we can turn to is up at God and not at what we are dealing with at the moment.
Profile Image for Jason , etc..
229 reviews69 followers
July 13, 2008
A very well-written book about picking yourself up when circumstances beyond your control destroy you. His ability to write eloquently about something so personal and devastating in the process of trying to help others is a testament to his character.
Profile Image for Pepper Anne.
Author 3 books38 followers
February 15, 2024
I happened to pick this one up at a time in my life when I needed an inspirational read. The messages in this book hit home for me and had an impact on me. Yes, I enjoy reading David Jeremiah's work and this is one I'll hold onto, so I can go back at a later time to reread it. I do recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews

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