It Is Well with My Soul: Meditations for Those Living with Illness, Pain, and the Challenges of Aging

by Shelly Beach

Living with chronic illness, growing older, or facing the end of life can be a frightening experience. It is Well with My Soul helps readers explore biblical perspectives on issues associated with some of life’s most difficult stages. Focusing on living life as a care receiver, this collection of short meditations helps enhance the reader’s understanding of God’s purposes in situations of suffering. With engaging narrative, personal experience stories, and the use of humor, the author encourages the reader to find hope in Jesus. This insightful devotional provides readers with scripturally integrated prayers, reflective questions, and space to journal.

Genres: Devotional

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Larik · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Is Well With My Soul
Do you ever feel cheated by life? Do you believe God is unfair to you? Do you think you are left alone to suffer through terrible illness or a devastating loss that consumes you alive?? This book is for you!! You are not alone and your life story isn’t the worst out there. Believe me when I say I was so angry at God and the unfairness of life, desperate for some retribution but then I to reading this book and I am ashamed of my blind selfishness. There is so much suffering in the world. So many lives cut short. So many dreams crushed in moment’s notice. What is different about them is that they take it as a blessing. These people including the Author believe God in His abundant love for them decided it was better to “ruin” their health and dreams in order to achieve that intimate relationship that will get them on the path to Heaven. These painful experiences made them realize that God is ENOUGH- even when your world crushes around you, when you lose everything, when loved ones leave you, when pain just isn’t treatable, when there is no hope for the future God says I am your hope and I am enough for you.
Dear reader. Where are you today? What are you going through? What are feeling? Cry out to God – He is there to listen and tell you that you are not alone. He chose suffering of his own Son to save you, he is there to save you today… even from yourself.
Read this book. Let it touch your heart like it touched mine. And let it bring you peace and joy that comes only from knowing God is enough and he gives us what is the best in the end result.
Many thanks to the Publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Blessings.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book to read for inspiration is you are suffering physically.

[Gayle Pace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brain Just Went Awol! Doctors after doctors told her she had Bell's palsy,and an ear infection. She kept getting worse and worse. Her body was out of control.

Finally the family physician ordered her to a bigger hospital with more detailed tests. She lay in the hospital bed in a fetal position praying it was something minor.

Tests showed problems that were "troublesome" in her brain. She kept thinking about them cracking her skull and playing with her gray matter. The family had her transferred to Michigan to a more update hospital.

Her life became Room 312. She sank into a fog. Her known world sank into a world of pain, isolation, being dependent and unsure. She was completely helpless only she didn't know she would treasure the changes eventually.

God put her there, face to face, with him to discover who he really was. Her illness reminded her God's hand was resting on her shoulder and he was near. Whatever difficulties you face, you are never alone. The book 'It Is Well With My Soul' was written to help people with challenges in their life. It was written to uplift and comfort.

The meditations are a wide range of different emotions and experiences. We often battle with the question, "Why Me?" When life throws everything it has at you, you have God. God will hold you up, stay near you so you are never alone. Going through all the downs and deep seated emotions, can you say, 'It Is Well With My Soul'? Strength and love can come alive from allowing God in your life.

C.S. Lewis said, "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscious, but shouts in our pains." Physical pain shouts loudly in our world. We want answers for why God allows all the bad things in life. Adam and Eve let the evil loose in this world. It wasn't God. It was us, humans. God is always there, willing to listen and never let you be alone, You must trust him.

We can accuse God of not caring, of being to blame for our problems. Lament - - it allows us to express our hurts and pain and asks for relief. We know God hears us because he is a God of Mercy. 'It Is Well With My Soul' goes through the doubt process. In tough times, tough questions bring tough decisions. Devastation - the Lord has a set of plans for our lives. Although you may go through many times when life lets you down, God will help you back up. Ask him, talk to him, he IS there.

Being broken hearted, giving up on hope and relationships. God places people in out lives to help you get through it. Never be forsaken because God is always alongside us. You are never alone. Even when you are afraid or weak, be strong and unafraid, the Lord is with you.

The folowing pages of the book go through the rest of her struggles with her illness, undiagnosed. 'It Is Well With My Soul' even though she and others, she knew, were struggling and suffering; is a story of emotions and fears. As the many emotions and fears over-whelm a person, reach out and take God's hand. He has broad shoulders. He can handle it.

It can be hard to lean on God for support and total trust when our world has just fallen apart. You might say, "This isn't what I signed up for". Like they say, no one promised you a rose garden.

The book offers many passages from the Bible. It has questions at the end of each emotion or trial. Keep telling yourself, 'It Is Well With My Soul'. At the end of life, when you are before God, hopefully you have used everything God gave you. Read the book, connect with the people, think and reflect. With hope and hard work, do one other thing. Connect with God so all is well with your soul.

I received a complimentary copy of 'It Is Well With My Soul' an e-book to read from Net Galley on behalf of Discovery House, for this review.

You can slso see this review at http://bemiown.blogspot.com and Net Galley at https://www.netGalley.com/review/revi...

[Tom James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can it truly be well with one's soul if one is dealing with tragedy, chronic pain or a terminal illness? Quoting the famous hymn by Horatio Spafford, author Shelly Beach answers yes, but says it with sensitivity, knowing that these issues are not dealt with by "pat" answers. Drawing on her Christian faith, her own experiences with chronic pain, as well as the experiences of other people from a cross-section of humanity, Beach explores how people have coped with difficult situation. Each chapter is written as a two/three-page daily devotional, with a Scripture verse, a short account of someone dealing with tragedy/pain/illness, and a prayer. The appendices contain prayers, Scriptures for various situations, addresses of support groups, and information as to when to contact a hospice. This book makes an excellent gift for someone struggling through depression, tragedy, illness, or chronic pain, or for someone who is assisting someone is these situations.

[Tomi Alger · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful book! The author begins with the story of Horatio Spafford, the writer of the hymn "It IS Well With My Soul" and of the tragedies he experienced in his life. In spite of the tragedies, he was able to say it was well with his soul, making reference to a Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4, who also experienced tragedy, but said all was well with her soul.

Beach has experienced physical challenges and has chosen to say the same.In this book, Beach shares story after story of people who face their illnesses and pain and sadnesses and learn to live with them and choosing to trust God for their days on earth and those ahead in heaven.

She addresses the range of emotions that she and others experienced, including fear, anger, depression, hope, and forgiveness. Each chapter begins with a Bible verse and other Scriptures are included.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book of meditations for very beneficial for me and I enjoyed the author's variety of life situations that were featured in each brief entry. It was loaned to me long ago - and I think I will go buy it for myself to revisit for some peace and solace.

[Rebekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, great book!

[Blanche · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good piece. A book which you can pick up and read a few chapters/lessons/thoughts and then questions to think about. God is good all the time.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring words for those coping with entropy and loss.

[Connie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not my favorite

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Is Well with My Soul: Meditations for Those Living with Illness, Pain, and the Challenges of Aging is absolutely THE BEST devotional I have read for those going through life's most difficult health changes. Shelley Beach does a beautiful job of keeping the book scripture based. Each devotion begins with a reassuring and calming scripture, offers a small story, a heartfelt prayer and two questions to really think about. She pulls no punches in facing the thoughts and emotions those struggling with devastating diagnoses deal with, and reminds us that no matter what our situation, God is with us and loves us beyond measure. He is able (and willing, oh so willing!) to take on our anger, frustration, and pain if we but take it to him in prayer. She also shows that in our darkest situations, God's blessings surround us, we can be of use to Him and His greater plans and that we are held as dearly beloved children in the palm of his hand. There is no reason to fear or despair, for we are beloved, and God is walking through the valley we face right by our side. The book takes us from diagnosis through preparing for death, and offers helpful information on steps to take following your diagnosis, resources, related scriptures, beautiful prayer guides, articles on how do deal with stress, when to call hospice, forgiveness, and banishing bitterness. This book has it all, and presents it in a very down-to-earth, extremely comforting fashion. I highlighted many passages within the book, and bookmarked several pages. This book was a found treasure for me, and an extremely helpful guide. I feel blessed to have found it and will keep it on my shelf to refer to time and time again. I highly recommend it to others of the Christian faith dealing with serious health issues.

My sincere thanks to NetGalley and Discovery House Publishers for allowing me to read a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based on the well-known hymn “It is Well with My Soul”, you are on a journey to the presence of God. The author herself has known the fear of chronic illness and walking thru with her parents as their caregiver. How can faith be more than a “pie in the sky” when facing a crisis? When facing death?

When the approach of facing pain, chaos, or tragedy is running away and hiding or manipulate no longer works, how can the presence of God be the anchor of our soul? That we along with the hymnist say it is well with my soul. It is not a passive faith where you let just let go and let God. It is a faith that moves forward. It is living the words “He must increase, but I must decrease” John 3:30

In understanding the doctrine of God’s sovereignty and the response to His sovereignty, we know and act in faith that God is good, that we do not replace God with anyone or anything, and we submit to His sovereignty, that he is our God and we are His.

This devotion brings much heartache to the table but it also brings scripture, a testimony that lives out that scripture and a heart-felt prayer. You will be encouraged, strengthened but most importantly brought into the presence of God.

A Special Thank you to Discovery House Publishers and Netgalley for the e-book to give an honest review.

[Renee Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is absolutely one of the best devotionals that gives comfort and encouragement during difficult life situations. Shelly Beach did an excellent job collecting the many life stories of people and sharing her situations to give hope to those who are hurting.

A story about Jill Gibbs on pg 105 was something that really spoke to me.
Her advice for other women who mother with handicaps? “God gave you to your child. He loves your child even more than you do. He chose you to be your child’s mother, and your children aren’t getting the short end of the stick. Parenting may be difficult, but you’re the right parent for your son or daughter.”
With the diagnosis of my fibromyalgia I have struggled with a lot of false guilt. It is very painful at times to not be able to do activities with the family or even be able to do the simplest household duties. It is a relief to hear I am not messing my family up. With God’s help you can use illnesses and tragedies to make children stronger and full of compassion for others.

There are a lot of books out that are given to the hurting by well meaning people. Sometimes their “thoughtfulness” isn’t appreciated. This book is definitely one that will not be offensive but truly a treasure to own.

[Mary-ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent devotional directed at those who are hurting or going through some trouble in their lives. This is an essential book for those who are looking for some encouragement in their lives. By going through this devotional, they can see how God is working through their lives. Sometimes God uses trials to help us grow, and I feel that this book can help us through those moments in time. We will be reminded that disappointments will turn into “His appointments” depending on how we look at the situation around us. That is where this devotional comes into the picture. It will help keep us in God’s word, as well as showing us that we can beat Satan’s big D’s; such as devastation, doubt, denial.
This devotional also helps one deal with anger, and the times when God will be stretching us. I’m sure that all of us have gone through times when we have been “stretched. There have been times when we have all had to deal with anger in some form or another, a time when we have felt wronged by someone; this devotional will help us see how to deal with those times.
I highly recommend this book, and it will be a staple on my book shelf that will be read and reread.

[Tonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful devotional help for people struggling. I can see it being for a lot of different problems throughout life. Shelly Beach tells some of her story, so you can know where she is coming from. She too has been there!

What I liked about this devotional is it is rooted firmly in scripture, turning back every time to a verse. Read and re-read them. They will grow in your head, so when you face troubles in the future, you will have verses handy to turn to. I also liked the prayer guides in the back. Just small prayers, but ones to get you really talking with our Lord about your troubles and worries.

I love how at the end of each section there are just 2 questions. Questions that really are worth thinking about and doing.

Shelly Beach is one author that I haven't had the pleasure of reading till now, but I will not be a stranger much longer! I highly recommend this book. Even if you aren't going through a trial now, as we all know, in this life you will be. So be proactive and prepared! Get those verses in your head. Pass this book along to others you know as well and be a blessing!

I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Karen Korb · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts On The Book: Where was this book when I was going through the loss of my parents to cancer and Alzheimer's? This book was so helpful. Firmly rooted in scripture each story of pain and despair turns into a beautifully thought out devotional. This book is a must for your bookshelf and one you will want to refer back to time and time again. I loved it! As a pastor and high school teacher I can see this book as a great resource tool and gift for people who are hurting or confused about what it happening in their lives.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Netgalley Publishers as part of their Book Review Blogger Programs. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

[Rhonda Gayle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shelly Beach has taken the words of a beautiful favorite hymn and written a collection of meditations or devotions for those who are dealing with chronic illness, aging, daily pain and more. She includes many examples from her own personal story which is highly moving as well as the stories of many others. She includes scripture readings and prayers with the meditations. I have many chronic illnesses personally which forced me to quit teaching at the age of forty-nine and live on disability. I have had to give up much, but have gained time for more prayer, more Bible reading, more study, and a deeper relationship with Christ and those I love due to my disabilities. Shelly's writings helped me not to feel so alone and to realize that others have felt the same struggles and pains which I feel daily. Thank you so much.

[Kristin Bush · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ll be completely honest…this devotional is really good for someone going through a health issue or struggling in general, when they need the encouragement to keep going that God is with them throughout the process. However when you are perfectly healthy or don't perceive yourself to be struggling, the devotional does not have the kind of impact it is designed to have. I think other than that, its a great devotional. I do wish I had known about this devotional last year when my mom was heavily battling cancer (going through chemotherapy and radiation) because then I would have sent her a copy of it for encouragement. I may still send her a copy though. I love that this devotional is packed with scripture and is scripture based.

{This book was sent to me by the publisher, Discovery House, in exchange for my HONEST review.}

[Collene · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book because I needed some encouragement in my life. I’m going through a very difficult time. This book is full of encouraging stories beginning with the author’s own testimony of what God has done for her.

I really like the way the book is organized. Most of the passages will begin with scripture related to the topic. The author then goes on and writes a testimony related to that scripture and topic. She ends the passage with such wonderful prayers and includes thought provoking questions related to the passage, scripture, testimony and prayer.

This is not a book that you will want to read just once. Put it in a convenient spot because you will want to refer to it again and again.

This book was given to me from Discovery House Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and fair review.

[IrenesBookReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome book to read while going through a difficult time. It will help feed your soul when you just want to be left alone. This book is a must have for every bookshelf. I gave this book 5/5 stars. I loved the tone of the book, loving and pointing you to scripture for answers. I can’t say enough about how encouraging and uplifting the pages of this book are. I would recommend the book as a gift for any one you know who is having a difficult time or may just need some encouragement.

I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.

[Theresa Powers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is divided into little mini-stories which touch the heart and soul. I gained perspective from a Christian point of view after reading each story. What I found refreshing about this book is to find an insight from each person's life. There are experiences giving the reader something to connect with and relate to throughout the book. In the back, resources can be found for people who are grieving or facing major illnesses. If you want a book to make you think and feel, pick this one up. It provides prayers and reflections as well.

[Jolene · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have a friend who has a chronic medical condition or are a care giver, this book is for you. This devotional walks those with chronic or serious medical diagnoses through scenarios common to their situation. It reassures, convicts, and encourages believers to experience illness through the lens of faith.

[Tess ✨]

I should not have been trying to read this book. I mistook it for an actual book on meditation and not a book about being Christian, which is what it is.