A Step Further: growing closer to God through hurt and hardship

by Joni Eareckson Tada, Steve Estes

Personal answers to the difficult "whys" of suffering. New 16-page photo section and illustrations by Joni. Originally published in 1978, A Step Further is Joni Eareckson Tada's response to thousands of letters she received from people puzzled about the "whys" of suffering. Joni answers these questions by taking a personal look at how God has used circumstances, people, and events in her own life and the lives of others. A Step Further has been used by individuals, in hospitals and rehab centers, and in scores of countries overseas to bring comfort and peace to those who are suffering. It is available in over 30 different languages.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Biography, Christianity, Biography Memoir, Autobiography, Christian Non Fiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1978

About the author

Joni Eareckson Tada is an American evangelical Christian author, radio host, artist, and founder of Joni and Friends, an organization "accelerating Christian ministry in the disability community".

Reviews

[Joy E. Rancatore · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Step Further by Joni Eareckson Tada and Steve Estes provides an in-depth, yet understandable study into what the Bible says about God's role in and response to human suffering. The wisdom of this woman is comparable to that of the great theologians, but she explains truths in a simple manner that even a child could understand; plus, she backs up her words with scripture references so her audience can read God's words and discern whether or not she is accurately representing the Bible's doctrines.

I would highly recommend this book for any believer and for anyone who faces suffering--from financial woes to emotional crises to serious medical conditions and disabilities. Joni tackles the tough subject of why God allows suffering in His people and why he does not intervene more often with a miraculous healing. It is an encouraging message from a woman who has dealt with what we would consider more than her share of suffering.

I read the older version of this book because I happen to own it, but would love to read an updated version. I also look forward to reading more of her more recent works. Joni is still ministering from her wheelchair every day. She continues to write, speak and draw; she also supplies encouragement to thousands--even millions--of people every day through her blog and radio devotionals. She been a quadriplegic for 44 years. A couple years ago, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite her suffering, she smiles, encourages and shows the reality of her situation. She doesn't smile through her pain and simply say, "I'm so blessed!" She reveals her struggles and is real about her situation.

[Adriana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always love reading Joni Eareckson Tada. However, I felt, in some places, like Joni was a bit too pollyanna-ish when it came to not complaining. While it is probably a good idea not to complain about one's lot in life, complaining is part of the human condition. We do that. We have hard circumstances and we gripe. I believe God expects a certain amount of that from us, after all the Israelites were doing it heavily in the desert for 40 years. I have been in a wheelchair for most of the last 17 years, though I had the ability to get out of it, on a daily basis, to transfer myself to other positions. In that aspect, I didn't have it as rough as Joni does. However, I had a entire host of difficulties very different from Joni's experience. I think not complaining about those is great if a person can manage that, it is the ideal state. However, I didn't manage to not complain. I have a very close relationship with God too, and that probably stopped me from doing a whole lot more complaining than I've done. I guess what I'm trying to say here is, the way Joni said the parts about complaining, it made it look like she was a paragon of virtue, and maybe a bit holier than thou. I don't think God expects us to deal with severe hardships and not complain. I believe He looks more closely at our hearts. The line between complaining and venting (not to keep everything all bottled up) is a fuzzy one. I am glad she has a wonderful family to help her out with everything she needs, and supports her emotionally. I have not had that, not by a long shot. In fact, my family behaved quite the opposite. See look, I'm complaining again! It is a very slippery slope. The upshot of this book is that it can motivate people to try and accept their difficult circumstances (whatever those are) and improve on whatever level of complaining they were doing. She has a sound biblical perspective on it all.

[Breath of Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Review:
Let me start out with saying that the first time I read this wonderful inspirational book was when I was a teenager. I was on a weekend trip with my Aunt and Uncle to Iowa to visit my Aunts family. I brought the book along because I had not had a chance to read it yet. So from W.Va. to Iowa I started to read. I was so blown away with what had actually happen to Joni Eareckson that it was impossible for me to put the book down. I had actually read the whole book within three day period. The last few chapters being read on the road back to W.Va. I was so impressed and inspired by the book that I told everyone and even lent my book to others so they could read the her story.

I don't know if anyone here has read or knows any thing about author, painter, just an incredible person, but let me say that this book was a turning point in my life. I knew then that I could do something for the Lord. I realized that weekend that through all her struggles that if she could I could.

I highly recommend this book to everyone. And it will be a stable on my bookshelf for as long as I live. Thank you Joni for teaching me that no matter the circumstance I can get thru it. God is on our side and with Him I can do all things.

So due to the above I am giving this book a Breath of Life Rating of:

Five Clock Rating!!!

Disclaimer: This book was not given to me, but purchased myself.

[Joanne G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this back in the '70s. So much of what was being written at the time was airy-fairy, I'm-okay-you're-okay stuff. Joni had the honesty to say that horrible things happen, and life can be bitterly unfair--but there is hope.

[Sabina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good. I think this is a great book for every Christian to read!! Everyone will go through trials of various kinds: physical disabilities, illnesses, depression, anxiety, trauma, broken relationships, abuse, and so much more. This can apply to anyone suffering on looking at it from the right perspective of knowing it's all for GOD's glory and our good, and drawing us nearer to HIM with our walk with HIM on this earth.

[Beki Eikum · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was wonderful to hear Joni process suffering and her young life. I feel like this book is the second chapter of her story. Now I want to go back and read the first. Her words are lovely.

[Hank Pharis · Rating 2 out of 5]

Joni Eareckson Tada is one of the most encouraging people on the planet. To have spent the last 4 decades as a quadriplegic and to serve and glorify God as she has is truly inspiring. Her perspectives on the problem of evil and suffering are as helpful as any theologians. This is the second of 3-4 basically autobiographical books that she has written. Her first book tells the story of her injury and her struggle to survive the initial shock of it. This one is more the story of her coming to grips with having to spend the rest of her life paralyzed. She basically describes how she came to her very Biblical theology of suffering.

(Note that I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book.
3 = Very good; 4 = Outstanding; 5 = All time favorites.)

[Joan]

Tada has experienced hardship first hand, and she understands (and acknowledges) the hurt that we feel as children of God. This book really impressed upon me that we cannot see God's provision or glory if our lives are moving along without any problems. God uses the hard times in our life to get our attention and to reveal Himself in a more personal, powerful way. This book really helped me deal with emotions related to my cancer -- Joni does not promise a happy ending (in our definition) to all of life's problems, but she does point out that nothing happens outside of God's control or love. She is believable because she has experienced this herself.

[Amber Blackstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was highly encouraging to me as I struggle with infertility wondering why is there disease and suffering. Joni relates in the book her struggles with being paralyzed and asking why she wasn't healed. After reading her book, I learned that lack of faith and being punished are not the only reasons why there's disease. It is a result of sin in the world. It can be used to help others and bring us closer to God. I highly recommend this book.

[Deb Brammer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This shows Joni's faith journey in dealing with the accident that caused her lifetime paralysis. She and her friend, Steve Estes, work through the "whys" of why bad things happen to good people. It helps to have read "Joni" to know the story, but I found this book to be even better. Though Joni and Steve are not theologians, they show exceptional insight into these things and I found the book extremely helpful. Highly recommended!

[Mark Thompson]

A very frank, honest book that traces a young woman's journey from robust teen to quadriplegic after a swimming accident. She is well know in Christian circles. But her testimony, courage, and faith are even greater than I could ever imagine. Her humble nature permeate this book as she describes her life to victory.

[Jaclynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part two of Joni’s journey, this book takes a look at some of the deep questions in life, esp. pertaining to sickness/disease. It allowed me to think about God’s side of things and how He works sometimes even when we don’t understand .

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Joni's story back when I was young, but Allison Wilson sent me this out of print copy (one can get the newer version which, I think, has more added). This was easy to read and really helped me as I struggled with my own illness and circumstances.

[Laura Marsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extremely helpful book written with great compassion and honesty. Joni's testimony speaks for itself and it is an admirable story from one so well acquainted with suffering. Her perspective is refreshing and inspiring and makes one determined to suffer well for the glory of God. Hugely helpful.

[Winnie Thornton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this not long after reading Joni, which means I need to flip through it again soon.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Comforting, encouraging, an amazing blessing. I highly recommend this book (even better if you read "Joni," her autobiography, first).

[Jebin]

I really liked it.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great discussion about diseases and miraculous healing. More spiritual talk and less story than Joni, but I enjoyed it even more than the last one.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely tremendous book on suffering. Joni shares rare insights on trials and hardship and the beauty that omes from ashes.

[Amy Conkey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Inspiring. Helps put life into perspective.

[Millie Robinson · Rating 3 out of 5]

ISBN 0-310-23970-2

This book was the first 'A Step Further' written by Joni and Steve Estes.

[Natsumi Shizuka · Rating 5 out of 5]

one of the best book i have read. i started reading joni earickson books since highschool and she became one of my inspiration. i am touched after i read the story of her life.

[Bettie Gross · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read. This book touches a persons heart

[Lenita Sheridan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Book, but Missing Something Crucial

I liked this book and I would recommend it, but Joni left out the most crucial part of Christianity. According to Joni, we are not to know why we suffer. That is for God to know. She quotes from Job to back up her reasoning. She leaves out the most important role suffering has in the history of Christianity, that of Jesus’ suffering on the cross. God’s son paid the ultimate price for our sins. He did this in the most painful way possible. Jesus was sinless, not just innocent; He led a perfect life. The son of God can comfort us in our suffering because He knows suffering, too, the most painful kind.

[Esther* · Rating 4 out of 5]

This autobiography is the sequel to Eareckson’s first book, which was simply titled “Joni”. That book tells of her diving accident as a teenager that turned her into a quadriplegic; this book shows what happened as a result of her story becoming known around the world. It takes its lead from many of the letters and questions she received as her story became widely known throughout the 1970s, and as such it is more about her theological journey, especially on the topic of hardships, with a few updates on her story woven in. It is particularly helpful for anyone who has big questions about suffering, and for those who are facing life-changing situations.

[C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book. Lots of personal background, scriptures and examples of life circumstances and resulting consequences. Not as memorable as her first book. Still a good solid read. Her book speaks to the soul’s resilience, how suffering can help you deepen or help you find faith. She also discusses why suffering occurs and her hope for the future.

[Boremomsn.Com · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book, It was just as good as the first. Books are the best when they teach the reader something heretofore not noticed but was there all the time. This book did that. There are spelling errors and a few grammatical issues, but the material more than made up for those.

[Tim Duff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Took me until 2020 to read this book written in 1978. What wisdom at a young age for Joni as she explains God's view of suffering and pain. What right have we to ask the God of the universe - why? I highly recommend this book. Especially now at this time in the world.

[Calum Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this even more than Joni’s first book about her accident etc If you’ve had some real suffering or you’re in the middle of it, there’s wisdom/ teaching/God’s word and hope.

Joni illustrates her points with many heartbreaking stories from her own and others’ lives.

Recommend

[growing_faith.reads]

Very good. Reads like a devotional with many stories from her life to illustrate. A lot of opportunity for spiritual growth, particularly for those who struggle with the way their life is here on earth.