What do you think?
Rate this book
You're Made for a God-Sized Dream: Opening the Door to All God Has for You
If you have a desire in your heart that just won't disappear...If you don't want to let fear get the best of you...If you're not sure what to do...Help is on the way. We all long to live with more purpose, passion, and joy. Yet in the middle of our hectic lives, the God-sized dreams that have the potential to lead us into all God has planned for us are the ones that tend to get lost. With her intimate, approachable style and constant encouragement, Wall Street Journal bestselling author Holley Gerth invites women to rediscover the desires God has given them--and then dare to pursue them. With the enthusiasm and honesty that we all want from our closest friend, Holley encourages women to overcome excuses--too busy, too late, too far out of my comfort zone--and believe that their God-sized dreams can become reality. She takes readers by the hand and says, "Yes! You can do this! Let's go!" then guides them forward with grace and wisdom. A licensed counselor and certified life coach, Holley insightfully combines inspiration with practical application in this powerful, positive book.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2013
130 people are currently reading
1928 people want to read
About the author
Holley Gerth
65 books593 followersHolley Gerth likes humans, words, and good coffee. She's also a Wall Street Journal bestselling author with over 500,000 copies sold.
Find out more about her new release, What Your Mind Needs for Anxious Moments.
Find out more about her new release, What Your Mind Needs for Anxious Moments.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
March 5, 2013
This is an upbeat and encouraging book written as if the reader is talking to their best girl friend.
Topics include: If you're scared, dream it do it, creating a life statement, others "God sized dreams, how to build your dream team, who is on your side and who stands against you, lies that keep us from dreaming, how to recognize a dreamers heart are but a few of the many useful interesting and thought-provoking segments that are contained within this must read volume! Also at the end of each chapter is a conclusion that summarizes the chapter, and a go deeper guide. Placed strategically throughout the book are places which you can record your own thoughts for participation.
I am at a time in my life when a book such as You're Made for a God-Sized Dream" is needed and makes so much sense. Once I started reading it was impossible to put down and I found myself hanging on every word. Besides completing the exercises and making plans for the completion of the dream it do it segments, I realized after reading testimonies that there are so many others with God Sized dreams and wanna be dreams. Just needed to know how to take them to the next level as this book can be a link to becoming closer to a more Godly life. Being expectant of the same kind of book I usually read I was pleasantly surprised by the encouraging words the author so thoughfully composed. I feel this is a book all women should devour regardless of their present life situations. Everyone can take something from this book and apply it to their own lives. A truly well written keeper book I will highly recommend to others.
I received a complimentary copy from Revell Publishing for this blog tour.
“Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
Topics include: If you're scared, dream it do it, creating a life statement, others "God sized dreams, how to build your dream team, who is on your side and who stands against you, lies that keep us from dreaming, how to recognize a dreamers heart are but a few of the many useful interesting and thought-provoking segments that are contained within this must read volume! Also at the end of each chapter is a conclusion that summarizes the chapter, and a go deeper guide. Placed strategically throughout the book are places which you can record your own thoughts for participation.
I am at a time in my life when a book such as You're Made for a God-Sized Dream" is needed and makes so much sense. Once I started reading it was impossible to put down and I found myself hanging on every word. Besides completing the exercises and making plans for the completion of the dream it do it segments, I realized after reading testimonies that there are so many others with God Sized dreams and wanna be dreams. Just needed to know how to take them to the next level as this book can be a link to becoming closer to a more Godly life. Being expectant of the same kind of book I usually read I was pleasantly surprised by the encouraging words the author so thoughfully composed. I feel this is a book all women should devour regardless of their present life situations. Everyone can take something from this book and apply it to their own lives. A truly well written keeper book I will highly recommend to others.
I received a complimentary copy from Revell Publishing for this blog tour.
“Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
November 22, 2013
In her book “You’re Made For a God-Sized Dream” Holley Gerth talks about what it means to have a God-sized dream, how to achieve your dream, and how to sustain yourself while achieving your dream.
The structure of the book is great for a pair of ladies or a small group. There is a “Go Deeper Guide” with questions at the end of each chapter. I asked another lady from church to read the book with me. We met about every two weeks and the questions were helpful in our discussion.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone at any stage of their dream. Here are three reasons why I enjoyed You’re Made For a God-sized Dream by Holley Gerth.
1. The book provides real practical advice on how to achieve your dream
I expected the book to be filled with a bunch of cheerleader platitudes about achieving your dream. Gerth proved me wrong in Chapter 4 titled, “What Comes Next for You?” Instead of nebulous allegories about dreaming, Gerth gets real and asks you to define your dream and outline a strategy. She clearly lays out a process to help you determine actions towards achieving your dream.
2. The book’s down-to-earth readability
The tone of the book is down-to-earth and approachable. I never had to guess at what the author was describing. The book is easy to read even though it covers tough subject matter.
A few weeks ago I got to meet the author, Holley Gerth, in the Atlanta airport. I interrupted Holley while she was trying to figure out the gate of her connecting flight. I gushed about the book and told her how much I was enjoying reading the book with my friend. Then she asked me the obvious question, “So what is your God-sized dream?” I got to share about becoming digital tentmakers and creating a network of digital tentmakers and mission organizations. She encouraged me to keep going. Then we had some awkward talk about growing up in Houston and we parted ways. Holley didn’t seem to mind the interruption. It turns out she is as approachable in person just as she is in her writing.
3. The book’s straightforward wisdom
I kept highlighting nuggets of wisdom that were sprinkled throughout the book. Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
If God is calling you to a dream, then that’s where his presence is in your life. You are not being drawn to the dream - you are being drawn to the giver of it. - page 38
You don’t have to make everyone in your life happy - the only thing you must do is be obedient. - page 24
“You ‘reap what you sow,’ and in order to get a lot out of a God-sized dream, you’ll have to put a lot into it. There’s just no way around that truth. Yes, God is the one who makes the results happen, but we are clearly called to put in effort. This isn’t ‘works’ in the sense that we are trying to to earn God’s approval by what we do. Nor is it ‘striving’ where we feel the burden is on us to make everything happen. It’s simply good, honest, hard work to pursue what God has put in front of us with excellence.” - page 81
Yes, God-sized dreams are beautiful. Yes, they’re worth pursuing. But they are not all cotton candy and daisies. - page 106
One of the most important tests of your dream is your ability to push those times when you feel alone or strange and finish what God has called you to do anyway. - Chapter 6
This book is great whether you have a twinkling of a dream or if your dream has become your new normal. If you didn’t already have a dream in mind, then the book may not be helpful. However, this book is great for anyone who wants to achieve a dream.
The structure of the book is great for a pair of ladies or a small group. There is a “Go Deeper Guide” with questions at the end of each chapter. I asked another lady from church to read the book with me. We met about every two weeks and the questions were helpful in our discussion.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone at any stage of their dream. Here are three reasons why I enjoyed You’re Made For a God-sized Dream by Holley Gerth.
1. The book provides real practical advice on how to achieve your dream
I expected the book to be filled with a bunch of cheerleader platitudes about achieving your dream. Gerth proved me wrong in Chapter 4 titled, “What Comes Next for You?” Instead of nebulous allegories about dreaming, Gerth gets real and asks you to define your dream and outline a strategy. She clearly lays out a process to help you determine actions towards achieving your dream.
2. The book’s down-to-earth readability
The tone of the book is down-to-earth and approachable. I never had to guess at what the author was describing. The book is easy to read even though it covers tough subject matter.
A few weeks ago I got to meet the author, Holley Gerth, in the Atlanta airport. I interrupted Holley while she was trying to figure out the gate of her connecting flight. I gushed about the book and told her how much I was enjoying reading the book with my friend. Then she asked me the obvious question, “So what is your God-sized dream?” I got to share about becoming digital tentmakers and creating a network of digital tentmakers and mission organizations. She encouraged me to keep going. Then we had some awkward talk about growing up in Houston and we parted ways. Holley didn’t seem to mind the interruption. It turns out she is as approachable in person just as she is in her writing.
3. The book’s straightforward wisdom
I kept highlighting nuggets of wisdom that were sprinkled throughout the book. Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
If God is calling you to a dream, then that’s where his presence is in your life. You are not being drawn to the dream - you are being drawn to the giver of it. - page 38
You don’t have to make everyone in your life happy - the only thing you must do is be obedient. - page 24
“You ‘reap what you sow,’ and in order to get a lot out of a God-sized dream, you’ll have to put a lot into it. There’s just no way around that truth. Yes, God is the one who makes the results happen, but we are clearly called to put in effort. This isn’t ‘works’ in the sense that we are trying to to earn God’s approval by what we do. Nor is it ‘striving’ where we feel the burden is on us to make everything happen. It’s simply good, honest, hard work to pursue what God has put in front of us with excellence.” - page 81
Yes, God-sized dreams are beautiful. Yes, they’re worth pursuing. But they are not all cotton candy and daisies. - page 106
One of the most important tests of your dream is your ability to push those times when you feel alone or strange and finish what God has called you to do anyway. - Chapter 6
This book is great whether you have a twinkling of a dream or if your dream has become your new normal. If you didn’t already have a dream in mind, then the book may not be helpful. However, this book is great for anyone who wants to achieve a dream.
March 3, 2024
I see myself rereading this in the future. Really beautiful. ❤️
June 19, 2023
Holley’s books are always filled of encouragement and so inspirational for me. I loved this book as it was not the typical go after big dreams but more go after your purpose and the things on your heart that you were made for.
“The size of the dreams isn’t what matters. I believe everyone has God-sized dreams. It’s not about how big or small they are, because he create each one to perfectly fit the size of your heart. “
“The size of the dreams isn’t what matters. I believe everyone has God-sized dreams. It’s not about how big or small they are, because he create each one to perfectly fit the size of your heart. “
March 9, 2013
Holley Gerth in her new book, “You’re Made for a God-Sized Dream” published by Revell helps us Opening the Door to All God Has for You.
From the Back Cover: Hello, you . . .
The one looking for more purpose and listening for God’s plan.
Here’s what that restlessness is really all about: there’s a God-sized dream knocking on the door of your heart.
Before you think that sounds too big, let me assure you, God-sized dreams aren’t really about size at all. They’re about the desires God places within you that perfectly fit your heart.
God-sized dreams are an essential part of who you’re created to be and what you’re called to do. They lead to more meaning, joy, and connection with the One who gave them to you.
In the busyness of life, it’s easy to ignore them or let fear shut them out.
But this is your moment.
Now is your time.
The “more” your heart is longing for has been there all along.
Let’s open the door to all God has for you together.
We all have things we’re afraid to tell anyone, hopes that feel silly, dreams that seem like dares and quiet longings of the heart that get especially loud sometimes. Holley Gerth believes that those our God-sized dreams. God-sized dreams mean more of Jesus, more of what He has created us to be, more of what He’s called us to do. It’s time to not give up on those dreams. If it a God-sized dream then God is dreaming it along with you and He wants it just as badly as you do. In eleven chapters Ms. Gerth walks us through the steps we need to take to realize just what our dreams are and what to do to make them a reality. Ms. Gerth knows about God-sized dreams. She has them also. She knows what we need and she is willing to walk with us to achieve our dreams. If you have ever had a desire in your heart that just will not go away then this is the book for you and now is the time for that desire to come to pass. You are going to enjoy this book and your dreams are going to become a reality.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers. 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.”
Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
From the Back Cover: Hello, you . . .
The one looking for more purpose and listening for God’s plan.
Here’s what that restlessness is really all about: there’s a God-sized dream knocking on the door of your heart.
Before you think that sounds too big, let me assure you, God-sized dreams aren’t really about size at all. They’re about the desires God places within you that perfectly fit your heart.
God-sized dreams are an essential part of who you’re created to be and what you’re called to do. They lead to more meaning, joy, and connection with the One who gave them to you.
In the busyness of life, it’s easy to ignore them or let fear shut them out.
But this is your moment.
Now is your time.
The “more” your heart is longing for has been there all along.
Let’s open the door to all God has for you together.
We all have things we’re afraid to tell anyone, hopes that feel silly, dreams that seem like dares and quiet longings of the heart that get especially loud sometimes. Holley Gerth believes that those our God-sized dreams. God-sized dreams mean more of Jesus, more of what He has created us to be, more of what He’s called us to do. It’s time to not give up on those dreams. If it a God-sized dream then God is dreaming it along with you and He wants it just as badly as you do. In eleven chapters Ms. Gerth walks us through the steps we need to take to realize just what our dreams are and what to do to make them a reality. Ms. Gerth knows about God-sized dreams. She has them also. She knows what we need and she is willing to walk with us to achieve our dreams. If you have ever had a desire in your heart that just will not go away then this is the book for you and now is the time for that desire to come to pass. You are going to enjoy this book and your dreams are going to become a reality.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers. 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.”
Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
August 23, 2017
This book was one of those happy coincidences that confirm God knows exactly what you need, even when you don't. I picked this up from the bargain shelf at our bookstore, solely based on the title and without reading the back or really looking at it. When I started reading it, I realized that it is a book written specifically to women, full of endorsements from about a zillion women, by a lady whose whole thing is Women's Ministry, and I almost stopped reading it. Something prompted me to keep reading though and I'm ever so grateful that I did. Holley is an excellent writer and the message she shares is powerful, encouraging, and something that everyone (male or female) needs to hear! I found myself underlining whole sections and constantly being blown away by the insights and encouragements she shares. This book was wonderful and anyone would be encouraged and motivated from reading it. If you are so lucky as to find it on the bargain shelf (or the regular shelf) at your bookstore, pick it up! You won't be disappointed.
Favorite Quote: "It seems that the enemy tries to keep us away from God-sized dreams in two ways. First, through so much fear that we never even start. But also by telling ourselves that unless we do it perfectly and everything unfolds according to plan, then this must not be God's will and we should just give up. THAT'S NOT TRUE."
Favorite Quote: "It seems that the enemy tries to keep us away from God-sized dreams in two ways. First, through so much fear that we never even start. But also by telling ourselves that unless we do it perfectly and everything unfolds according to plan, then this must not be God's will and we should just give up. THAT'S NOT TRUE."
September 4, 2018
While reading this book, I found myself saying yes, yes, yes to much of Holley's thoughts on pursuing God-sized dreams. This book has been a great encouragement to me and I scribbled quite an amount of quotes from this book in my journal. I can recommend it to anyone who dares to dream big and feels called by God to do something to advance His Kingdom.
If you are looking for a coach to help you through writer's block, disappointment, failure or fears.... read this book!
If you are looking for a coach to help you through writer's block, disappointment, failure or fears.... read this book!
June 13, 2016
I didn't finish this book. Not because it wasn't good (I loved Gerth's style, strong grasp of the Bible, and her passion) but I really didn't need this book. I am past needing this book, mainly because my parents did such an great job at teaching, however, I think this book could be helpful to a lot of people.
March 9, 2013
Friday, March 8, 2013
You're Made for a God-Sized Dream: Opening the Door to All God Has for You by Holley Gerth, ©2013
God-Sized Dreams by Holley Gerth (cover) This key grabbed me! The feel of a "skeleton key" in your hand! It can open so many doors past the locks. Reach out and try it! You will be taken where you always dreamed you could be!
Holley Gerth comes to where you are. She invites you to have a cup of coffee or tea and ~ a cookie! Yes! My kind of girl. In fact, I have a terrific recipe with grains and nuts and oh, yum, that I could bring along. So bring your open heart and your dreams and wishes ~ for you. (Did I forget the chocolate! There is chocolate in my cookie recipe too.) Holley sits as a trusted friend to probe what you may not have considered putting into words, questions that will explore your heart to hope and to step out into those God-sized dreams ~ just for you. Here is a "letter" to you from Holley:
A God-sized dream isn’t about what you do as much as how you do it. It’s about pursuing life with passion, purpose, and going with God wherever he leads.
It’s about not settling. It’s about tenaciously believing you’re made for more.
Not as in “bigger house, fancier car, more luxurious lifestyle.”
No, my friend, I mean “more of Jesus, more of what he’s created you to be, more of what he’s called you to do.”
Less of you, actually, and more of all he is and all he has for you—which is beyond what you can even imagine.
******
Rather than describing, I would like to take you with me to an excerpt of two pages within:
God-Sized Dreamers Are Faithful Where They Are
In the Old Testament, God sent the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king (see 1 Sam. 16:1-13). Samuel arrived at a household with lots of sons. Good-looking ones. Tall ones. Impressive ones. But as each passed by, Samuel sensed that he had not yet found the one God sent him for. "Don't you have any more sons?" he asked. The father was dismissive. "Oh yeah, there's one more. But he's the youngest. Not even worth meeting. He's out in the fields with the sheep." Samuel demanded that the final son be brought, and it turned out he was God's choice all along. The shepherd boy David became the king. And God showed us this truth: "People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" (1Sam. 16:7).
David, the overlooked one, captured the gaze of God. Under seas of stars, out in the desert with no one around but a few sheep, he learned to pray, be brave, and dream with God. I wonder if he had any sense on those starry nights of what was coming, what God was preparing him for in the vastness of that quiet place. He learned to be faithful right where God had him, and that enabled God to place him exactly where he was supposed to be.
Where are you today?
Maybe you're in a place where it seems no one sees you and it feels like what you do doesn't matter. Maybe you feel like your potential isn't being used. What are you doing taking care of a few sheep when you sense inside that you're made for so much more? But you're being faithful anyway. You're serving, learning, loving, growing.
You aren't settling for the status quo, and yet you are choosing to thrive where you are today as well. Dreams can be seductive. They can make us trade our today for an unknown future. They can turn our thoughts away from what's right in front of us.
But not you. You're a God-sized dreamer, and that means you can make a difference anywhere. When Jesus said, "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much" (Luke 16:10), he meant folks like you. Listen, my friend, you are seen. You are watched by the One who spoke the world into being, who numbers every hair on your head and knows each care in your heart. If all those details matter to him, don't you think what you're doing right here, right now does too?
What you're doing isn't small if it's what God has for you. It's big. And it just may lead to something even bigger.
Make the most of where you are right now. Give everything you have. God has so much in store for you. And he has so much for you right here too.
You are a God-sized dreamer, and you are faithful right where you are. In case you haven't heard it lately, thank you. Thank you for what you do. Especially when it seems no one sees. Especially when you wonder if it matters at all. It does. And you do too.
--You're Made for a God-Sized Dream, 50-51
And Holley's background? This is a beautiful story from Holley's blog:
A God-sized Dreams Story
By Holley
They met one hot Arkansas summer. She wore a dress. He wore a uniform. She invited the soldier home after church for dinner. And pie.
Oh, that lemon icebox pie.
They settled down in a small town. Had two girls. She got polio at 29 and made her way through life in a wheelchair. I still remember the tracks in the carpet and how following them meant going into the arms of a woman that smelled like Mary Kay and kindness.
He started a business. It prospered. And then one day, God tapped him on the shoulder with a God-sized dream.
“Start a Christian bookstore,” came the whisper.
So they stepped away from safe, comfortable, middle-class “success” and took a leap of faith not knowing what would happen.
It began with a kiosk in the middle of a mall.
Then a small storefront.
And it grew.
That seed of a dream–watered with sweat, perseverance, tears and prayer became a life-giving thing in their community.
Through the years I watched the ups and downs of business. I learned about dealing with people. I saw how written words could change hearts and lives.
Mostly, I curled up in the back room with stacks of books.
And one day God tapped me on the shoulder with a God-sized dream too, “Become a writer.”
The whisper wouldn’t go away all through Junior High when I wrote poetry in notebooks instead of paying attention in science class. It didn’t go away through the strict youth group years of high school or the rebellious season of college. It didn’t go away through moving, marriage, over seven years of infertility, career transitions and my share of rejection letters. From seed to sprouting my God-sized dream spanned over two decades.
My Grandpa, the one in the story, decided to retire at age 85. Now he calls me on Sundays and asks, “How’s that book going?” And I get to tell him how God has answered prayers uttered before I even came into this world. I get to tell him about all of you, your God-sized dreams, how you’re taking the little words God places in my heart and using them to change the world.
I can hear the smile in his voice when I’m through sharing. “Hang in there,” he says (which is his version of “Keep doing what you’re doing, girl. It matters.”)
Encouragement from the first God-sized dreamer in my life.
A dreamer who’s now 91 years young.
I take his words in and they taste good to my soul.
Like lemon icebox pie.
******
Holley Gerth
is a bestselling writer, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women through her popular blog and books like You're Already Amazing. She's also cofounder of (in)courage and a partner with DaySpring. Holley lives with her husband, Mark, in the South. Come by and join in her blog at her website www.holleygerth.com.
***Thank you to Revell Blog Tour for inviting me to join the tour for Holley Gerth's You're Made for a God-Sized Dream. I received this book in exchange for a review in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
~*~*~ Ready for more? This book is the perfect companion to Holley's ebook The "Do What You Can" Plan. ~*~ *~
You're Made for a God-Sized Dream: Opening the Door to All God Has for You by Holley Gerth, ©2013
God-Sized Dreams by Holley Gerth (cover) This key grabbed me! The feel of a "skeleton key" in your hand! It can open so many doors past the locks. Reach out and try it! You will be taken where you always dreamed you could be!
Holley Gerth comes to where you are. She invites you to have a cup of coffee or tea and ~ a cookie! Yes! My kind of girl. In fact, I have a terrific recipe with grains and nuts and oh, yum, that I could bring along. So bring your open heart and your dreams and wishes ~ for you. (Did I forget the chocolate! There is chocolate in my cookie recipe too.) Holley sits as a trusted friend to probe what you may not have considered putting into words, questions that will explore your heart to hope and to step out into those God-sized dreams ~ just for you. Here is a "letter" to you from Holley:
A God-sized dream isn’t about what you do as much as how you do it. It’s about pursuing life with passion, purpose, and going with God wherever he leads.
It’s about not settling. It’s about tenaciously believing you’re made for more.
Not as in “bigger house, fancier car, more luxurious lifestyle.”
No, my friend, I mean “more of Jesus, more of what he’s created you to be, more of what he’s called you to do.”
Less of you, actually, and more of all he is and all he has for you—which is beyond what you can even imagine.
******
Rather than describing, I would like to take you with me to an excerpt of two pages within:
God-Sized Dreamers Are Faithful Where They Are
In the Old Testament, God sent the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king (see 1 Sam. 16:1-13). Samuel arrived at a household with lots of sons. Good-looking ones. Tall ones. Impressive ones. But as each passed by, Samuel sensed that he had not yet found the one God sent him for. "Don't you have any more sons?" he asked. The father was dismissive. "Oh yeah, there's one more. But he's the youngest. Not even worth meeting. He's out in the fields with the sheep." Samuel demanded that the final son be brought, and it turned out he was God's choice all along. The shepherd boy David became the king. And God showed us this truth: "People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" (1Sam. 16:7).
David, the overlooked one, captured the gaze of God. Under seas of stars, out in the desert with no one around but a few sheep, he learned to pray, be brave, and dream with God. I wonder if he had any sense on those starry nights of what was coming, what God was preparing him for in the vastness of that quiet place. He learned to be faithful right where God had him, and that enabled God to place him exactly where he was supposed to be.
Where are you today?
Maybe you're in a place where it seems no one sees you and it feels like what you do doesn't matter. Maybe you feel like your potential isn't being used. What are you doing taking care of a few sheep when you sense inside that you're made for so much more? But you're being faithful anyway. You're serving, learning, loving, growing.
You aren't settling for the status quo, and yet you are choosing to thrive where you are today as well. Dreams can be seductive. They can make us trade our today for an unknown future. They can turn our thoughts away from what's right in front of us.
But not you. You're a God-sized dreamer, and that means you can make a difference anywhere. When Jesus said, "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much" (Luke 16:10), he meant folks like you. Listen, my friend, you are seen. You are watched by the One who spoke the world into being, who numbers every hair on your head and knows each care in your heart. If all those details matter to him, don't you think what you're doing right here, right now does too?
What you're doing isn't small if it's what God has for you. It's big. And it just may lead to something even bigger.
Make the most of where you are right now. Give everything you have. God has so much in store for you. And he has so much for you right here too.
You are a God-sized dreamer, and you are faithful right where you are. In case you haven't heard it lately, thank you. Thank you for what you do. Especially when it seems no one sees. Especially when you wonder if it matters at all. It does. And you do too.
--You're Made for a God-Sized Dream, 50-51
And Holley's background? This is a beautiful story from Holley's blog:
A God-sized Dreams Story
By Holley
They met one hot Arkansas summer. She wore a dress. He wore a uniform. She invited the soldier home after church for dinner. And pie.
Oh, that lemon icebox pie.
They settled down in a small town. Had two girls. She got polio at 29 and made her way through life in a wheelchair. I still remember the tracks in the carpet and how following them meant going into the arms of a woman that smelled like Mary Kay and kindness.
He started a business. It prospered. And then one day, God tapped him on the shoulder with a God-sized dream.
“Start a Christian bookstore,” came the whisper.
So they stepped away from safe, comfortable, middle-class “success” and took a leap of faith not knowing what would happen.
It began with a kiosk in the middle of a mall.
Then a small storefront.
And it grew.
That seed of a dream–watered with sweat, perseverance, tears and prayer became a life-giving thing in their community.
Through the years I watched the ups and downs of business. I learned about dealing with people. I saw how written words could change hearts and lives.
Mostly, I curled up in the back room with stacks of books.
And one day God tapped me on the shoulder with a God-sized dream too, “Become a writer.”
The whisper wouldn’t go away all through Junior High when I wrote poetry in notebooks instead of paying attention in science class. It didn’t go away through the strict youth group years of high school or the rebellious season of college. It didn’t go away through moving, marriage, over seven years of infertility, career transitions and my share of rejection letters. From seed to sprouting my God-sized dream spanned over two decades.
My Grandpa, the one in the story, decided to retire at age 85. Now he calls me on Sundays and asks, “How’s that book going?” And I get to tell him how God has answered prayers uttered before I even came into this world. I get to tell him about all of you, your God-sized dreams, how you’re taking the little words God places in my heart and using them to change the world.
I can hear the smile in his voice when I’m through sharing. “Hang in there,” he says (which is his version of “Keep doing what you’re doing, girl. It matters.”)
Encouragement from the first God-sized dreamer in my life.
A dreamer who’s now 91 years young.
I take his words in and they taste good to my soul.
Like lemon icebox pie.
******
Holley Gerth
is a bestselling writer, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women through her popular blog and books like You're Already Amazing. She's also cofounder of (in)courage and a partner with DaySpring. Holley lives with her husband, Mark, in the South. Come by and join in her blog at her website www.holleygerth.com.
***Thank you to Revell Blog Tour for inviting me to join the tour for Holley Gerth's You're Made for a God-Sized Dream. I received this book in exchange for a review in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
~*~*~ Ready for more? This book is the perfect companion to Holley's ebook The "Do What You Can" Plan. ~*~ *~
December 30, 2019
This book would make a great gift for high school and college graduates
I just graduated college this past fall 2019 with my bachelors in psychology and am beginning on my masters in clinical mental health spring 2020. This book encouraged me in my transition from an undergrad to a grad school student. I have a God-sized dream and calling to a helping profession to serve others. This book offers wholehearted truths and scriptural encouragement in pursuing God’s calling for your life. I sincerely love Holley Gerth’s writing style and feel like we really sat down together at a coffee shop to talk about goals and dreams over a cup of something warm and cozy. I really like that Holley identifies lies the enemy attacks us with about our dreams (it’s too late, you’re not strong enough, it’s selfish, etc). I would recommend reading this with a journal beside you to journal your answers to the discussion questions at the end of the chapters. I took a bunch of notes and made a ton of highlights. I highly recommend this book for anyone who’s ever had a dream that God calls them to.
I just graduated college this past fall 2019 with my bachelors in psychology and am beginning on my masters in clinical mental health spring 2020. This book encouraged me in my transition from an undergrad to a grad school student. I have a God-sized dream and calling to a helping profession to serve others. This book offers wholehearted truths and scriptural encouragement in pursuing God’s calling for your life. I sincerely love Holley Gerth’s writing style and feel like we really sat down together at a coffee shop to talk about goals and dreams over a cup of something warm and cozy. I really like that Holley identifies lies the enemy attacks us with about our dreams (it’s too late, you’re not strong enough, it’s selfish, etc). I would recommend reading this with a journal beside you to journal your answers to the discussion questions at the end of the chapters. I took a bunch of notes and made a ton of highlights. I highly recommend this book for anyone who’s ever had a dream that God calls them to.
December 16, 2017
It's not often I come across a book that I want to buy a couple dozen copies of and hand them out to all my friends, but this is one such book. I fell in love with it before I even finished the first chapter, than prayed I hadn't just jinxed it and it was all downhill from there. But it wasn't. She discusses what emotions you're feeling when you have a God-sized dream, the excitement that you want everyone to share with you, that you may be afraid, but even more so you're ecstatic...and maybe even a little obsessed. Holley also discusses the raw truth -- there will be hard days, times when you want to give up, moments when the energy doesn't feel worth the outcome. Those chapters are just as important (maybe more so?) as the ones in the beginning that pump you up, because you will get discouraged, and you will want to quit, even if the feeling is short-lived. I have no doubt I will return to this book often as I pursue my current dream, and I encourage any woman with a dream to read this book.
December 11, 2024
Once again, another great book by Holley Gerth. Holley does a great job making you feel like you're getting advice from a friend of yours, not a best-selling author. She doesn't talk down or at you, but gives you her life experience.
Holley explains that having a God-sized dream is bigger than what you can even imagine for yourself. Although you may be scared of what God's plan and purpose is for you, she writes that you should "let your fear fuel you" (Gerth 98). Not only that but allow yourself to trust in what God has for you, which are "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11 Bible Gateway).
Just like her other book "You're Already Amazing," I would recommend this book specifically to teenagers struggling to find their purpose and place in life. I read this book when I was a teenager, and still, as a young adult, I find it very applicable to my life now.
Holley explains that having a God-sized dream is bigger than what you can even imagine for yourself. Although you may be scared of what God's plan and purpose is for you, she writes that you should "let your fear fuel you" (Gerth 98). Not only that but allow yourself to trust in what God has for you, which are "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11 Bible Gateway).
Just like her other book "You're Already Amazing," I would recommend this book specifically to teenagers struggling to find their purpose and place in life. I read this book when I was a teenager, and still, as a young adult, I find it very applicable to my life now.
July 31, 2023
An encouraging and inspiring book, though I found the title a tad misleading. I feel that 'God-given' would be a better word than 'God-sized'. The idea is that we all have dreams that come from God, whether large or small in the scheme of things.
The author unpacks many related topics - how to know if a dream if from God, how to avoid blockages, how to deal with resistance... and much more. Questions at the back of each chapter for further reflection, with the option of downloading a printable work book.
I found some of it a bit too Americanised for my tastes, but overall I thought it an excellent book with much to think about. Aimed at women, but there's no reason why men shouldn't also read it.
Four and a half stars, really.
Longer review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/...
The author unpacks many related topics - how to know if a dream if from God, how to avoid blockages, how to deal with resistance... and much more. Questions at the back of each chapter for further reflection, with the option of downloading a printable work book.
I found some of it a bit too Americanised for my tastes, but overall I thought it an excellent book with much to think about. Aimed at women, but there's no reason why men shouldn't also read it.
Four and a half stars, really.
Longer review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/...
March 20, 2020
In You're Made for a God-Sized Dream, Holley Gerth helps you explore the saying, "Where there's a will there's a way" by turning it into, "Where there's God's will, there's a way". Whatever dream God has given you, Holley will encourage your heart to set fear aside a chase it with abandon. Yes, there will be some roadblocks along the path to your God-sized dream, but with a lot of Biblical wisdom, and a little bit of southern charm, Holley will help you overcome them all!
February 28, 2022
One of the most encouraging books I've read in a long time. It doesn't spout empty optimism, but gives reasons to believe that our dreams are not futile, selfish, or anything but the reason we're here. Highly recommended if you've been pursuing some dreams for a long period of time without seeing the end point you've been waiting for, especially when you feel that your personality, traits, and experiences match up with the goals you're most passionate about.
September 11, 2017
Probably one of the best spiritual self-help books I have ever read. It wasn't too preachy or too scripture based. Just enough to remind you of the actual scriptures. But certainly all centered around God in a "He made you and therefore everything is about Him" way.
Really looking forward to reading Holley's earlier books. Love her simplicity and bluntness.
Really looking forward to reading Holley's earlier books. Love her simplicity and bluntness.
July 1, 2018
The book does a get just a little repetitive in some places, but I’d like to believe that was Holley’s way of reminding us about topics she’d already mentioned in case we forgot. I am inspired and reassured about my dream. Certain parts dealt with the exact issues that have been preventing me from moving forward.
March 23, 2022
It is a great book. However, it felt super super repetitive, hence the 4 stars. I did like the interactive features and loved how it helped me lay out a few thoughts I had been having. I would recommend this book if you are going through a time of uncertainty and you have something on your heart that is tugging but you do not know where to start.
September 16, 2017
A must read for women and men looking to make an impact
This book is not just for entrepreneurs but also every day normal people like you and me. Holley digs into the insight of life and our gifts and meaning to each other and how valuable our relationships are. Our dreams are about the journeys along the way not just the end game. Please enjoy!!
This book is not just for entrepreneurs but also every day normal people like you and me. Holley digs into the insight of life and our gifts and meaning to each other and how valuable our relationships are. Our dreams are about the journeys along the way not just the end game. Please enjoy!!
January 10, 2018
This book was too “sweet” for me. The author was a bit repetitive and her style of communication didn’t really jive with me. Had some good nuggets here and there. I could see if being good for a high school girls group or something, as it comes with discussion questions.
October 27, 2019
I was reminded as I read this that I have put my dreams on hold and have been more in survival mode. It is a wonderful reminder that God has placed dreams in my heart and spirit and has given me what I need to pursue them.
November 30, 2024
This book is more for those who already have their God-sized dream, with encouragement to follow the dream. I did not enjoy this book as much as other books by Gerth, I had mixed feelings about the book, and can't find the words to put into thoughts.
September 29, 2017
I loved how Holley Gerth wrote this to her reader in such a personal tone. It is a wonderful read. Get out there and do it!
January 18, 2018
Great guide for Faith walkers
Wanting to take a leap of faith? Holley will help guide you in trusting God in daring to implement you dream vision!
Wanting to take a leap of faith? Holley will help guide you in trusting God in daring to implement you dream vision!
November 29, 2018
I feel like I just left a heart to heart conversation with a friend. If God planted your God-sized dream, no one can destroy it. Stay obedient. Stay attentive. He will grow the dream.
February 1, 2021
I liked the writing style and the message but at this time of my life, it wasn't really a book that pertained to me. I'm sure that many will find the message useful.
June 4, 2024
Parts of the book were quite good. I did feel as if it were a cheer leader trying to whomp up, the crowd.
August 6, 2025
excellent motivation! I would've given 5 🌟, but it was a bit repetitive.
January 17, 2017
Wish I could give this book a 10 star rating. It's out of this world, right on the mark PERFECT. It was surreal as I turned each page something was being said that hit the mark as to exactly what I have felt and right where I'm at. I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who has been tossing around, contemplating or even trying to avoid a dream.
March 5, 2013
Ever brainstorm an idea to take your hobby to the next level or maybe look into some type of venture, be it a small business at or away from home, or start a ministry?
There are many things that we each feel a personal desire to explore and pursue and so few of us sometimes take it from being a dream to a reality; Reading, "You're Made for a God-Sized Dream" by Holly Gerth, I found the book inspiring and like a personal cheerleader, that encourages the reader to ask themselves, what is it that they would really like to try their hand at and take a chance at pursuing it, at some point in their lifetime.
Truthfully, we are all created with different gifts and skills that God manifests in some ways in our lives, maybe its just the simple gift of comfort that we could take to another level and volunteer our time at shelters, nursing homes, or to the community at large; If we have a desire toward reaching out, finding ways through our church and community to utilize that drive to be there for others; Whatever that drive is, Holly Gerth, gently shares encouraging words to motivate and prompt us to go....what is it that we can do for God.
The title of the book, reminds me of a photo that has been floating around, showing all the ways God has used everyday people for big tasks, so its inspiring to think of the small and big ways, we can reach out and discovered the dreams that God has in stored for us.
Maybe its not to write a book or we may not be the world's next great inventor, but that doesn't negate the fact that we still have ways to make an impact with the people around us and with our neighborhood and community.
Like Holly addressed in her book, "You're Made for a God-Sized Dream", this isn't about becoming a celebrity or an athlete, this is about making the most of what we are created to do in the areas we are strong in, where we are and if it takes us farther, to God be the glory, but that doesn't make our dreams less, but instead focus.
Focused on what it is that we are capable of doing, and making the impacts where we are able to do without losing sight of the big picture.
Sharing basic encouragement (addressing the need for getting quality sleep, taking care of ourselves physically, mentally and spiritually to name a few things), Holly's book isn't a self help book, or read this and be a success, but encouragement...straight, gentle encouragement that we all sometimes need to get from....keep dreaming about whatever it is we are dreaming about and how can we move beyond our personal fears and self doubts to taking a chance to see where God may take us.
Reading the book, I came away from reading, "You're Made for a God-Sized Dream" with encouragement to do the things that I may have been afraid to take a chance on or to try for the first time and that is something this book is geared toward: Taking away fears and the "I could never do that" and instead, share through personal anecdotes, examples and scripture that through God, all things really can be possible, both in small ways and sometimes, surprisingly big ways.
Available in both hardcover and e-book, this was a very motivating book to encourage us to look beyond the "can't", "shouldn't" and "don't" and instead focus on the "try it", "take the first step" and "take a chance".
There are many things that we each feel a personal desire to explore and pursue and so few of us sometimes take it from being a dream to a reality; Reading, "You're Made for a God-Sized Dream" by Holly Gerth, I found the book inspiring and like a personal cheerleader, that encourages the reader to ask themselves, what is it that they would really like to try their hand at and take a chance at pursuing it, at some point in their lifetime.
Truthfully, we are all created with different gifts and skills that God manifests in some ways in our lives, maybe its just the simple gift of comfort that we could take to another level and volunteer our time at shelters, nursing homes, or to the community at large; If we have a desire toward reaching out, finding ways through our church and community to utilize that drive to be there for others; Whatever that drive is, Holly Gerth, gently shares encouraging words to motivate and prompt us to go....what is it that we can do for God.
The title of the book, reminds me of a photo that has been floating around, showing all the ways God has used everyday people for big tasks, so its inspiring to think of the small and big ways, we can reach out and discovered the dreams that God has in stored for us.
Maybe its not to write a book or we may not be the world's next great inventor, but that doesn't negate the fact that we still have ways to make an impact with the people around us and with our neighborhood and community.
Like Holly addressed in her book, "You're Made for a God-Sized Dream", this isn't about becoming a celebrity or an athlete, this is about making the most of what we are created to do in the areas we are strong in, where we are and if it takes us farther, to God be the glory, but that doesn't make our dreams less, but instead focus.
Focused on what it is that we are capable of doing, and making the impacts where we are able to do without losing sight of the big picture.
Sharing basic encouragement (addressing the need for getting quality sleep, taking care of ourselves physically, mentally and spiritually to name a few things), Holly's book isn't a self help book, or read this and be a success, but encouragement...straight, gentle encouragement that we all sometimes need to get from....keep dreaming about whatever it is we are dreaming about and how can we move beyond our personal fears and self doubts to taking a chance to see where God may take us.
Reading the book, I came away from reading, "You're Made for a God-Sized Dream" with encouragement to do the things that I may have been afraid to take a chance on or to try for the first time and that is something this book is geared toward: Taking away fears and the "I could never do that" and instead, share through personal anecdotes, examples and scripture that through God, all things really can be possible, both in small ways and sometimes, surprisingly big ways.
Available in both hardcover and e-book, this was a very motivating book to encourage us to look beyond the "can't", "shouldn't" and "don't" and instead focus on the "try it", "take the first step" and "take a chance".
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews