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Known and Loved: Experiencing the Affection of God in Psalm 139
Fearfully and wonderfully made—some truths transform us—body and soul.
We hear that God is love and that He loves us, but what does that mean? And can this truth sink into our hearts in such a way that we are changed?
In Known and Loved, Glenna Marshall reflects on Psalm 139, exploring the transformational truth that we are fully known and loved by the Triune God of the universe. This book, overflowing with truth and encouragement, combats the myths and lies that we are unlovable, alone, or unseen. God sets His love on us in spite of our failings and even when we feel unlovable.
The psalmist tips our chins to fix our gaze on God who doesn’t hold back His affections. Taking readers verse by verse Glenna shows how you are … known to the core, known body and soul, known in the dark and in your suffering, known when you want to run or give up, known in your fears and when you feel alone.
We can be certain of God’s steadfast love. Immerse yourself in Psalm 139—a transformational journey into the heart of God—for you.
We hear that God is love and that He loves us, but what does that mean? And can this truth sink into our hearts in such a way that we are changed?
In Known and Loved, Glenna Marshall reflects on Psalm 139, exploring the transformational truth that we are fully known and loved by the Triune God of the universe. This book, overflowing with truth and encouragement, combats the myths and lies that we are unlovable, alone, or unseen. God sets His love on us in spite of our failings and even when we feel unlovable.
The psalmist tips our chins to fix our gaze on God who doesn’t hold back His affections. Taking readers verse by verse Glenna shows how you are … known to the core, known body and soul, known in the dark and in your suffering, known when you want to run or give up, known in your fears and when you feel alone.
We can be certain of God’s steadfast love. Immerse yourself in Psalm 139—a transformational journey into the heart of God—for you.
176 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2025
46 people are currently reading
697 people want to read
About the author
Glenna Marshall
10 books653 followersGlenna Marshall is married to her pastor, William, and lives in rural Southeast Missouri where she tries and fails to keep up with her two energetic sons. She is the author of The Promise is His Presence: Why God is Always Enough (P&R, 2019) and Everyday Faithfulness: The Beauty of Ordinary Perseverance in a Demanding World (Crossway, 2020).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 12, 2025
If Glenna Marshall writes it, I’m going to read it. This book is absolutely phenomenal.
We would never fix our lips to say God doesn’t love us, but how often do we struggle to truly believe and accept that truth as His children?
This is my new favorite Moody Publishers title. I got to read an early copy while preparing for my podcast interview with Glenna.
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I love Christian nonfiction and inspires me to keep reading and recommending more.
If you liked Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund, you’ll appreciate this one. It reminds us how deeply we are loved by God, something that can be hard to fully believe at times.
Acknowledging God’s love for us doesn’t mean we don’t recognize our sinfulness. Glenna makes that so clear in these pages.
In our interview, she shared that she made sure the Gospel was clear in every chapter. That was so encouraging to me and one of the many reasons I can highly recommend this book.
In Known and Loved, Glenna walks through Psalm 139, showing how we are fully known and deeply loved by God, not just in theory but truly loved. My soul needed this book.
If you’re in a dry season or simply need a reminder of God’s love for you, pick this one up.
We would never fix our lips to say God doesn’t love us, but how often do we struggle to truly believe and accept that truth as His children?
This is my new favorite Moody Publishers title. I got to read an early copy while preparing for my podcast interview with Glenna.
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I love Christian nonfiction and inspires me to keep reading and recommending more.
If you liked Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund, you’ll appreciate this one. It reminds us how deeply we are loved by God, something that can be hard to fully believe at times.
Acknowledging God’s love for us doesn’t mean we don’t recognize our sinfulness. Glenna makes that so clear in these pages.
In our interview, she shared that she made sure the Gospel was clear in every chapter. That was so encouraging to me and one of the many reasons I can highly recommend this book.
In Known and Loved, Glenna walks through Psalm 139, showing how we are fully known and deeply loved by God, not just in theory but truly loved. My soul needed this book.
If you’re in a dry season or simply need a reminder of God’s love for you, pick this one up.
July 14, 2025
There are times when I’ve wondered whether I’m just a little too much—or a little too different—for the people around me. Whether it's the things I love, the way I think, or how I process the world, I’ve felt the quiet fear of being misunderstood.
So when I came across Glenna Marshall’s Known & Loved, the title alone stirred something in me. What if being fully known didn’t lead to rejection... but love?
This journey through Psalm 139 teaches us exactly that!
"That is the invitation of this book. To consider His love. To think deeply about His knowledge. To feel secure in its strength." (p.15)
Quick Stats
# of Pages: 176
Level of Difficulty: Easy
My Rating: 5 stars
{full review here: https://www.amberthiessen.com/post/ps...}
So when I came across Glenna Marshall’s Known & Loved, the title alone stirred something in me. What if being fully known didn’t lead to rejection... but love?
This journey through Psalm 139 teaches us exactly that!
"That is the invitation of this book. To consider His love. To think deeply about His knowledge. To feel secure in its strength." (p.15)
Quick Stats
# of Pages: 176
Level of Difficulty: Easy
My Rating: 5 stars
{full review here: https://www.amberthiessen.com/post/ps...}
July 2, 2025
A gift. Consider this one required reading, friends.
November 4, 2025
Since reading Memorizing Scripture back in 2023, I’ve been a fan of Glenna Marshall. Her writing is easy to read for lay-people such as myself, but also theologically rich.
Known and Loved focuses on Psalm 139, which “celebrates all the ways God intimately knows us, stays near us, is invested in our lives, and suffuses our lives with meaning.” (page 145)
Each chapter explores a few verses of the psalm, explaining fully the implications they have on our lives and relationship with God.
I decided to start memorizing Psalm 139 as I read through this book, and that made the content all the more compelling.
❤️I recommend this book for anyone who has struggled with a sense of shame or who has doubted that God loves them.
Known and Loved focuses on Psalm 139, which “celebrates all the ways God intimately knows us, stays near us, is invested in our lives, and suffuses our lives with meaning.” (page 145)
Each chapter explores a few verses of the psalm, explaining fully the implications they have on our lives and relationship with God.
I decided to start memorizing Psalm 139 as I read through this book, and that made the content all the more compelling.
❤️I recommend this book for anyone who has struggled with a sense of shame or who has doubted that God loves them.
September 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫(4.5)
Walking verse by verse through Psalm 139, this book reveals the life-changing reality of being fully known and fully loved by God. With honesty and encouragement, it combats lies of unworthiness and points us to His unwavering affection—present in our fears, suffering, and failures—reminding us that His love never lets go.
If you’re looking for an in-depth Bible study that focuses on how God can love us, I think this is a perfect option. It’s not really the type of book to sit down and read in one sitting, though it is short enough. If you were planning a day alone with God, this could work in that setting by spreading it out throughout the day. It’s deeper than the average Bible study, so I understand why it’s not advertised as such, but the depth of Glenna’s insight is truly gleaned in the pondering moments after you’ve finished the chapter and have taken it before the Lord. Do you truly know God’s unfailing affection for you? I thought so, but this theologically rich walk-through deepened my understanding—I’m sure I’ll only fully realize the effects in weeks and months to come.
Thank you @moodypublishers for the gifted copy 🩷
Perfect for you if you like:
Verse-by-verse scripture studies
Theologically rich but accessible writing
Combating lies with biblical truth
Similar to:
Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund
In His Image by Jen Wilkin
Live No Lies by John Mark Comer
Walking verse by verse through Psalm 139, this book reveals the life-changing reality of being fully known and fully loved by God. With honesty and encouragement, it combats lies of unworthiness and points us to His unwavering affection—present in our fears, suffering, and failures—reminding us that His love never lets go.
If you’re looking for an in-depth Bible study that focuses on how God can love us, I think this is a perfect option. It’s not really the type of book to sit down and read in one sitting, though it is short enough. If you were planning a day alone with God, this could work in that setting by spreading it out throughout the day. It’s deeper than the average Bible study, so I understand why it’s not advertised as such, but the depth of Glenna’s insight is truly gleaned in the pondering moments after you’ve finished the chapter and have taken it before the Lord. Do you truly know God’s unfailing affection for you? I thought so, but this theologically rich walk-through deepened my understanding—I’m sure I’ll only fully realize the effects in weeks and months to come.
Thank you @moodypublishers for the gifted copy 🩷
Perfect for you if you like:
Verse-by-verse scripture studies
Theologically rich but accessible writing
Combating lies with biblical truth
Similar to:
Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund
In His Image by Jen Wilkin
Live No Lies by John Mark Comer
August 14, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what it really means that God knows you deeply and loves you deeper still, this book is for you.
If you’ve heard that you’re “fearfully & wonderfully made” but you struggle to truly embrace that truth, this book is for you.
If you’ve ever felt unlovable or too far from God’s forgiveness, this book is for you.
There is a deep security in the reality of being deeply known and fully loved by the all-powerful God of the universe. But so many of us go about our days generally believing that ‘God is Love’, while not allowing the wholeness of His knowledge and love to affect how we live.
By slowing down and looking at Psalm 139 verse by verse, Glenna Marshall invites us to consider the affectionate character of God towards those He has redeemed. She challenges us to confront the lies we’ve been believing about who we are and how God feels about us, replacing those with the truth of Scripture. This is not a book on self-love; rather, it’s a book that preaches the glorious truth of the gospel on every page: how we were dead in our sin, but God so loved the world.
It is clear that Glenna has a high view of Scripture, and a deep love for God and reliance on Christ. She is authentic in sharing her struggles, but she’s not shy in admonishing her fellow believers to press into Christ and His Word. This balance makes for a book that is both relatable and convicting.
I am so thankful that @moodypublishers provided a complimentary book in exchange for an honest review.
If you’ve heard that you’re “fearfully & wonderfully made” but you struggle to truly embrace that truth, this book is for you.
If you’ve ever felt unlovable or too far from God’s forgiveness, this book is for you.
There is a deep security in the reality of being deeply known and fully loved by the all-powerful God of the universe. But so many of us go about our days generally believing that ‘God is Love’, while not allowing the wholeness of His knowledge and love to affect how we live.
By slowing down and looking at Psalm 139 verse by verse, Glenna Marshall invites us to consider the affectionate character of God towards those He has redeemed. She challenges us to confront the lies we’ve been believing about who we are and how God feels about us, replacing those with the truth of Scripture. This is not a book on self-love; rather, it’s a book that preaches the glorious truth of the gospel on every page: how we were dead in our sin, but God so loved the world.
It is clear that Glenna has a high view of Scripture, and a deep love for God and reliance on Christ. She is authentic in sharing her struggles, but she’s not shy in admonishing her fellow believers to press into Christ and His Word. This balance makes for a book that is both relatable and convicting.
I am so thankful that @moodypublishers provided a complimentary book in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2025
I love this book! It’s a deep dive yet practical look into Psalm 139. If you want to know the love of God deeper, grab this book and your Bible and get ready to dig in 🩷
October 12, 2025
Wonderful truths and life-changing challenges!
In Known & Loved, Glenna Marshall walks slowly through Psalm 139, helping readers remember what our hearts often forget: that to be fully known by God is not frightening, but freeing.
Each chapter feels like a quiet conversation with a trusted friend who loves Scripture and believes it with her whole being. Glenna doesn’t rush through the verses; she lingers … showing how the God who knit us together also holds every fear, wound, and failure we try to hide. Her writing is rich in theology yet tender with grace … teaching without striving, comforting without softening truth.
“God is the Father who runs after the wayward child, who searches high and low for the lost sheep. He doesn’t
change once the child is home or the sheep found. He loves. He loves. He loves.”
That heartbeat echoes through the entire book. This message is about God’s amazing, infinite love—the kind that rescues and restores. Glenna reminds us that the same God who knows us to the core has chosen to set His affection upon us.
This is a book for every heart … believing or searching … that aches to know it is seen, known, and still loved.
Known & Loved invites us to slow down, open the Word, and remember that in every hidden place, we are seen by a holy God who delights to call us His own.
Perfect for readers who appreciate biblically faithful, theologically rich, yet easily accessible books that deepen personal devotion and awe for God.
I received a paperback of this book from the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on biblical faithfulness, clarity of message, and the author’s ability to illuminate Scripture with accuracy and affection for Christ, ensuring transparency and trustworthy reflection of the book’s spiritual depth and value.
In Known & Loved, Glenna Marshall walks slowly through Psalm 139, helping readers remember what our hearts often forget: that to be fully known by God is not frightening, but freeing.
Each chapter feels like a quiet conversation with a trusted friend who loves Scripture and believes it with her whole being. Glenna doesn’t rush through the verses; she lingers … showing how the God who knit us together also holds every fear, wound, and failure we try to hide. Her writing is rich in theology yet tender with grace … teaching without striving, comforting without softening truth.
“God is the Father who runs after the wayward child, who searches high and low for the lost sheep. He doesn’t
change once the child is home or the sheep found. He loves. He loves. He loves.”
That heartbeat echoes through the entire book. This message is about God’s amazing, infinite love—the kind that rescues and restores. Glenna reminds us that the same God who knows us to the core has chosen to set His affection upon us.
This is a book for every heart … believing or searching … that aches to know it is seen, known, and still loved.
Known & Loved invites us to slow down, open the Word, and remember that in every hidden place, we are seen by a holy God who delights to call us His own.
Perfect for readers who appreciate biblically faithful, theologically rich, yet easily accessible books that deepen personal devotion and awe for God.
I received a paperback of this book from the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on biblical faithfulness, clarity of message, and the author’s ability to illuminate Scripture with accuracy and affection for Christ, ensuring transparency and trustworthy reflection of the book’s spiritual depth and value.
January 10, 2026
I praise God for this book! Beautifully written and so grounded in the Gospel. For anxious and doubting hearts it is a balm to the soul. I’ve included a few sentences below that stuck out to me:
“When you fall asleep, know that He is faithfully awake, keeping watch over your soul. When you wake up, He is there. You’re still with him, and he still loves you. He’ll always love you. He’ll always remember you for how could he forget the ones whom he has saved and redeemed?”
“God is constant in his love and faithful in his deeds. He is ever steady.”
“You do not have to live in constant fear that you are losing God’s love. His grip is stronger than yours.”
“Do not forget that God loves you. Every morning, when you wake up, remember the gospel. Remember that God sent Jesus to rescue you and make you his own.”
“When you fall asleep, know that He is faithfully awake, keeping watch over your soul. When you wake up, He is there. You’re still with him, and he still loves you. He’ll always love you. He’ll always remember you for how could he forget the ones whom he has saved and redeemed?”
“God is constant in his love and faithful in his deeds. He is ever steady.”
“You do not have to live in constant fear that you are losing God’s love. His grip is stronger than yours.”
“Do not forget that God loves you. Every morning, when you wake up, remember the gospel. Remember that God sent Jesus to rescue you and make you his own.”
December 22, 2025
Have you ever taken the time to truly sit with God’s love for you—to let the words of Psalm 139 search your heart?
In Known & Loved, Glenna Marshall invites us to do just that. Across nine chapters, she walks verse by verse through Psalm 139, gently exploring the questions many of us carry quietly:
Does God even like me?
Why can’t I know everything?
What if I’m too ashamed to face God?
Does God see my hidden pain?
Why is my body like this?
Will anyone remember me?
Should I hate God’s enemies?
What if I fear falling away?
Will God always love me?
With tender honesty and biblical wisdom, Glenna meets these fears with the unchanging truth of Scripture. She brings God’s Word to the places of doubt, fear, and heartache—reminding us that we are deeply known and loved.
I read this every morning during my quiet time, and it became a balm to my soul. I expected it to be impactful, but I didn’t realize how deeply it would speak truth into long-standing fears I have carried for far too long.
If Psalm 139 has ever felt familiar but distant—or comforting but not quite personal—this book invites you to linger there and do as the psalmist did: invite God to search you and know your heart.
Thank you @moodypublishers for my copy in exchange for my honest thoughts, and thank you @glennadmarshall for faithfully pointing hearts back to Scripture and the healing truth of being fully known and fully loved. 🤍
In Known & Loved, Glenna Marshall invites us to do just that. Across nine chapters, she walks verse by verse through Psalm 139, gently exploring the questions many of us carry quietly:
Does God even like me?
Why can’t I know everything?
What if I’m too ashamed to face God?
Does God see my hidden pain?
Why is my body like this?
Will anyone remember me?
Should I hate God’s enemies?
What if I fear falling away?
Will God always love me?
With tender honesty and biblical wisdom, Glenna meets these fears with the unchanging truth of Scripture. She brings God’s Word to the places of doubt, fear, and heartache—reminding us that we are deeply known and loved.
I read this every morning during my quiet time, and it became a balm to my soul. I expected it to be impactful, but I didn’t realize how deeply it would speak truth into long-standing fears I have carried for far too long.
If Psalm 139 has ever felt familiar but distant—or comforting but not quite personal—this book invites you to linger there and do as the psalmist did: invite God to search you and know your heart.
Thank you @moodypublishers for my copy in exchange for my honest thoughts, and thank you @glennadmarshall for faithfully pointing hearts back to Scripture and the healing truth of being fully known and fully loved. 🤍
January 1, 2026
This was a great book to finish at the end of the year. I will read anything Glenna writes. You should too.
July 4, 2025
If you've ever doubted God's love, this book is for you.
If you're pretty settled on God's general love, but wonder if he likes you, this book is for you.
I absolutely loved this. Psalm 139 is such a rich chapter on its own, but Glenna Marshall's careful and down-to-earth exegesis of it brings out insights certain to nourish your soul.
My favorite parts were when she talked about shame over sin after conversion and how she handled the more difficult verses of the chapter (19-22). It can be easy to gloss over parts of Scripture that make us uncomfortable, but the author did an excellent job of framing it with the rest of the chapter and the context of the whole Bible.
"We tend to believe that because we still struggle with sin, God must struggle to love us. We fear He must have to work so very hard to love someone so very unloveable. But this isn't the picture we get from Scripture. He's better at love than we can ever hope to be, for He Himself is the source of it."
If you're pretty settled on God's general love, but wonder if he likes you, this book is for you.
I absolutely loved this. Psalm 139 is such a rich chapter on its own, but Glenna Marshall's careful and down-to-earth exegesis of it brings out insights certain to nourish your soul.
My favorite parts were when she talked about shame over sin after conversion and how she handled the more difficult verses of the chapter (19-22). It can be easy to gloss over parts of Scripture that make us uncomfortable, but the author did an excellent job of framing it with the rest of the chapter and the context of the whole Bible.
"We tend to believe that because we still struggle with sin, God must struggle to love us. We fear He must have to work so very hard to love someone so very unloveable. But this isn't the picture we get from Scripture. He's better at love than we can ever hope to be, for He Himself is the source of it."
July 22, 2025
This book came to me at a fitting time. I was grateful and honored to read an early copy! My full review is now on TGC: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/re....
September 7, 2025
I cannot say enough good things about this book. It’s joined the other six or so of my Top Books I’ve Ever Read.
Glenna has written an easy-to-read, theologically sound, entire-Scripture-drenched study of Psalm 139. Those three things are hard to find all in one book. She pulled it off beautifully.
Each chapter starts off with a real-life example that rolls into the 2-4 verses she works through in that chapter. Then she takes concepts from those verses and comments on them using other biblical passages and material from other sound authors (the quotes I wrote down from this book!). Then before you know it, you’re already into the application. Which is huge. Read on to see what this book touched on.
If you struggle to believe that God loves you, this book is for you.
If you struggle to believe that God likes you, this book is for you.
If you struggle to believe that God is for you, this book is for you.
If you struggle to believe that God is with you, this book is for you.
If you struggle to believe that Jesus’ sacrifice was enough, and that self-flagellation and shame must still be your lot, this book is for you.
Other notes:
- I loved her take on chronic pain/illness and anxiety. Very compassionate and hope-filled by being based on Scripture.
- One thing I do not like about many books on Scripture is that they market themselves as being the only source of some secret knowledge or method to discovering Jesus. Which is ridiculous. That’s why we have the Bible.
Thankfully, this book rises above that ploy. It simply focuses on the Scripture we already have and reminds us of what God has already said, with a compassionate human narrator’s voice.
Glenna has written an easy-to-read, theologically sound, entire-Scripture-drenched study of Psalm 139. Those three things are hard to find all in one book. She pulled it off beautifully.
Each chapter starts off with a real-life example that rolls into the 2-4 verses she works through in that chapter. Then she takes concepts from those verses and comments on them using other biblical passages and material from other sound authors (the quotes I wrote down from this book!). Then before you know it, you’re already into the application. Which is huge. Read on to see what this book touched on.
If you struggle to believe that God loves you, this book is for you.
If you struggle to believe that God likes you, this book is for you.
If you struggle to believe that God is for you, this book is for you.
If you struggle to believe that God is with you, this book is for you.
If you struggle to believe that Jesus’ sacrifice was enough, and that self-flagellation and shame must still be your lot, this book is for you.
Other notes:
- I loved her take on chronic pain/illness and anxiety. Very compassionate and hope-filled by being based on Scripture.
- One thing I do not like about many books on Scripture is that they market themselves as being the only source of some secret knowledge or method to discovering Jesus. Which is ridiculous. That’s why we have the Bible.
Thankfully, this book rises above that ploy. It simply focuses on the Scripture we already have and reminds us of what God has already said, with a compassionate human narrator’s voice.
August 10, 2025
How blessed we are to be loved by God even in our sinful state and that he calls us to walk with him into eternity by receiving the salvation offered to us through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Taste and see that the Lord is good!
Glenna Marshall’s book calls us to dwell upon the assurances of Psalm 139. We are fully know and fully loved by our Holy God, each and every one of us. Sometimes we repeat these oft recited verses, but don’t take the time to savor the infinite depths of the riches God lavished upon us through His Word and beautiful promises to us. Let the love of God truly transform, renew, and restore you, my friends. This book serves as a beautiful reminder of God’s incredible goodness.
“God knows that these known and loved hearts of ours will be miserable in sin but joyful in obedience. He knows what will bring us satisfaction and what will leave us hungry and weak. When we obey His commands and live close to His Word, we will be filled with the joy of Christ.”
Thank you, Moody Publishers for a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Glenna Marshall’s book calls us to dwell upon the assurances of Psalm 139. We are fully know and fully loved by our Holy God, each and every one of us. Sometimes we repeat these oft recited verses, but don’t take the time to savor the infinite depths of the riches God lavished upon us through His Word and beautiful promises to us. Let the love of God truly transform, renew, and restore you, my friends. This book serves as a beautiful reminder of God’s incredible goodness.
“God knows that these known and loved hearts of ours will be miserable in sin but joyful in obedience. He knows what will bring us satisfaction and what will leave us hungry and weak. When we obey His commands and live close to His Word, we will be filled with the joy of Christ.”
Thank you, Moody Publishers for a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
January 6, 2026
You will rarely—very rarely—see me give a book five stars, so I’ll start there. This one deserves it.
If you know me, you also know that I usually choose books that speak more to the mind than to the heart. But this year I want more balance. I chose Know & Loved because it kept appearing in different places, almost landing in my lap, and I wanted to understand what all the attention was about.
Let me be clear: this is not a fluffy book that simply says, “God loves you, has a plan for you, and you don’t need to think much beyond that.” Nor is it prosperity-gospel thinking dressed up in Christian language. This book is deeply biblical. It engages Scripture seriously, yet explains it in a way that never makes you feel inadequate for not already knowing everything.
The author is transparent and easy to relate to, but without turning the book into a memoir. Unlike many modern Christian books that lean so heavily on personal stories that you start wondering whether you’re reading a novel rather than theology, this one keeps God and His character firmly at the center.
What especially stood out to me is how well the book speaks to different kinds of readers.
For those who constantly wonder whether they will ever be “good enough” for God to truly love them, this book offers real, grounding encouragement.
For those who struggle with God’s anger, justice, or the place of difficult passages such as the imprecatory psalms, it provides thoughtful, biblical insight rather than easy answers.
And for anyone who wants a clear, faithful, and balanced treatment of God’s love—especially in relation to Psalm 139—this book delivers exactly that.
It speaks to the heart, yes, but never at the expense of the mind. It helps you feel known by God while also helping you understand Him better. That combination is rare.
It may sound funny to say it this way, but I liked this book so much that I almost can’t avoid saying I loved it. And that, coming from me, means a great deal.
If you know me, you also know that I usually choose books that speak more to the mind than to the heart. But this year I want more balance. I chose Know & Loved because it kept appearing in different places, almost landing in my lap, and I wanted to understand what all the attention was about.
Let me be clear: this is not a fluffy book that simply says, “God loves you, has a plan for you, and you don’t need to think much beyond that.” Nor is it prosperity-gospel thinking dressed up in Christian language. This book is deeply biblical. It engages Scripture seriously, yet explains it in a way that never makes you feel inadequate for not already knowing everything.
The author is transparent and easy to relate to, but without turning the book into a memoir. Unlike many modern Christian books that lean so heavily on personal stories that you start wondering whether you’re reading a novel rather than theology, this one keeps God and His character firmly at the center.
What especially stood out to me is how well the book speaks to different kinds of readers.
For those who constantly wonder whether they will ever be “good enough” for God to truly love them, this book offers real, grounding encouragement.
For those who struggle with God’s anger, justice, or the place of difficult passages such as the imprecatory psalms, it provides thoughtful, biblical insight rather than easy answers.
And for anyone who wants a clear, faithful, and balanced treatment of God’s love—especially in relation to Psalm 139—this book delivers exactly that.
It speaks to the heart, yes, but never at the expense of the mind. It helps you feel known by God while also helping you understand Him better. That combination is rare.
It may sound funny to say it this way, but I liked this book so much that I almost can’t avoid saying I loved it. And that, coming from me, means a great deal.
February 3, 2026
Mathew West’s new song came out the day I finished this.
“You’re good at saying I’m still loved
And I was wrecked by mercy
The day I understood
I’m not loved because I’m worthy
I’m loved because You’re good”
Sums it up perfectly. Love her writing style- straight to the point.
Good study of Psalms 139 and God's love for me. Would be very very beneficial for those who struggle with this assurance.
💬𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘵:𝘩𝘵𝘵𝘱𝘴://𝘸𝘸𝘸.𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮.𝘤𝘰𝘮/𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘴/
“You’re good at saying I’m still loved
And I was wrecked by mercy
The day I understood
I’m not loved because I’m worthy
I’m loved because You’re good”
Sums it up perfectly. Love her writing style- straight to the point.
Good study of Psalms 139 and God's love for me. Would be very very beneficial for those who struggle with this assurance.
💬𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘵:𝘩𝘵𝘵𝘱𝘴://𝘸𝘸𝘸.𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮.𝘤𝘰𝘮/𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘴/
November 4, 2025
Diving into Psalm 139, Glenna Marshall takes readers verse by verse to examine what it means to be truly known and loved at the same time by God. In breaking this psalm down into nine sections, readers have the opportunity to better understand the ways in which God knows us in our most vulnerable times and in times of questioning. The conversational style presented is winsome and comforting, allowing us to relate to many of the stories posed in this book. It's a deeply vulnerable look at how we should relate to God when there is much about ourselves that we might believe to be in the way of fully knowing Him. I appreciate that the emotions around the fall—when Adam and Eve hid from the Lord—are addressed as they can keep us away from a relationship with Him today. Without minimizing the impacts of our sin and our broken humanity, this book is instead an invitation to run to the Father, who knows every intimate detail about us.
I love that solid theology is imparted while addressing practical applications in our lives. To be known by God means that He sees us in our darkness and when we feel lost among many. To be loved by God means that He is willing to bridge the divide to save and restore us. This is a book that does not shy away from topics such as evil, our enemies, and the pain we experience in our lives. If you're looking for a book that takes you more deeply into Psalm 139 while reaching into your felt needs and hidden longings to be known and loved, this is an excellent resource that balances biblical teaching and life transformation while drawing you closer to God's perfect desire for His people.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to Moody Publishers for providing a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I love that solid theology is imparted while addressing practical applications in our lives. To be known by God means that He sees us in our darkness and when we feel lost among many. To be loved by God means that He is willing to bridge the divide to save and restore us. This is a book that does not shy away from topics such as evil, our enemies, and the pain we experience in our lives. If you're looking for a book that takes you more deeply into Psalm 139 while reaching into your felt needs and hidden longings to be known and loved, this is an excellent resource that balances biblical teaching and life transformation while drawing you closer to God's perfect desire for His people.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to Moody Publishers for providing a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 31, 2025
Psalm 139 has always been one of my favourite psalms. This book takes you verse by verse, showing how much you are loved by the God of the universe.
Glenna takes you through a variety of topics and questions:
Does God even like me?
Why can’t I know everything?
What if I’m too ashamed to face God?
Does God see my hidden pain?
Why is my body like this?
Will anyone remember me?
Should I hate God’s enemies?
What if I fear falling away?
Will God always love me?
I connected with this book so much. Glenna clarified unanswered questions and fears that I’ve had for years. I felt such relief after reading this book.
This book is full of biblical wisdom and beautifully written. I highly recommend it to all Christian’s- new and old.
Glenna takes you through a variety of topics and questions:
Does God even like me?
Why can’t I know everything?
What if I’m too ashamed to face God?
Does God see my hidden pain?
Why is my body like this?
Will anyone remember me?
Should I hate God’s enemies?
What if I fear falling away?
Will God always love me?
I connected with this book so much. Glenna clarified unanswered questions and fears that I’ve had for years. I felt such relief after reading this book.
This book is full of biblical wisdom and beautifully written. I highly recommend it to all Christian’s- new and old.
July 16, 2025
An approachable and helpful book to understand God’s love and care. There is always more to learn from Psalm 139 than we realize. Would recommend to anyone needing encouragement of how and why God loves his people.
July 10, 2025
I have marveled for a long time that God knows me completely and still set His great love on me. Glenna offers a deeper and richer appreciation of what it is to be completely known and loved by the God of the universe! I loved this book so much. I read through once and will read it again soon or a deeper level.
August 7, 2025
Excellent book on how much God loves us….just because! Great illustrations! Plus I’ve always loved Psalm 139.
September 21, 2025
“God knows every dark corner, every awkward angle, every shadowed space. He committed to save and love us anyway.” -Glenna Marshall
We know God is omniscient (all-knowing), which means He knows everything about us, all our darkest parts and embarrassing moments. This can leave us wondering how God can truly love us when He knows us so deeply. Working through Psalm 139, Glenna Marshall assures her readers that we are fully loved by God and we can find safety and rest in Him. I found Known and Loved to be full of beautiful, biblical truths and encouraging reminders, and I would recommend this book to any Christian woman who needs to remember God’s great love for her.❤️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A big thank you to Moody Publishers for sending me a copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions above are my own.
We know God is omniscient (all-knowing), which means He knows everything about us, all our darkest parts and embarrassing moments. This can leave us wondering how God can truly love us when He knows us so deeply. Working through Psalm 139, Glenna Marshall assures her readers that we are fully loved by God and we can find safety and rest in Him. I found Known and Loved to be full of beautiful, biblical truths and encouraging reminders, and I would recommend this book to any Christian woman who needs to remember God’s great love for her.❤️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A big thank you to Moody Publishers for sending me a copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions above are my own.
August 18, 2025
In Known & Loved, Glenna Marshall helps readers experience the affection of God in Psalm 139. This transformative book touches the soul with the truth that we are known to the core and loved to the end.
This book helped me connect God’s love with His presence—His nearness, His closeness. Not only does He know us, but He also knows everything that will happen to us. We can find safety in His sovereignty.
Marshall takes on challenging topics with warmth and care. She shows how God loves us both in our sin and in our suffering, and I was encouraged to persevere through suffering and in the fight against sin.
Peace & Confidence
I was most moved by her reflections on how God values us beyond our bodies’ limitations. There is dignity, worth, and meaning because I am created in God’s image—even in my aging, decaying body. I place my hope in the resurrection, when I will walk and run with the Lord, free from sin.
I was most challenged by her reminder that I can find rest from the desire to be remembered by living a life of faithfulness to the Lord—who will never forget me. God not only knows the major milestones and big events—He knows everything and takes pleasure in me.
The book ends on a note of joy, providing peace and confidence that God will make everything right in the end. I am convicted to better obey and trust my Heavenly Father who knows everything about me. His love is an everlasting love that will never leave me or forsake me.
I received a media copy of Known & Loved and this is my honest review. @diveindigdeep
This book helped me connect God’s love with His presence—His nearness, His closeness. Not only does He know us, but He also knows everything that will happen to us. We can find safety in His sovereignty.
Marshall takes on challenging topics with warmth and care. She shows how God loves us both in our sin and in our suffering, and I was encouraged to persevere through suffering and in the fight against sin.
Peace & Confidence
I was most moved by her reflections on how God values us beyond our bodies’ limitations. There is dignity, worth, and meaning because I am created in God’s image—even in my aging, decaying body. I place my hope in the resurrection, when I will walk and run with the Lord, free from sin.
I was most challenged by her reminder that I can find rest from the desire to be remembered by living a life of faithfulness to the Lord—who will never forget me. God not only knows the major milestones and big events—He knows everything and takes pleasure in me.
The book ends on a note of joy, providing peace and confidence that God will make everything right in the end. I am convicted to better obey and trust my Heavenly Father who knows everything about me. His love is an everlasting love that will never leave me or forsake me.
I received a media copy of Known & Loved and this is my honest review. @diveindigdeep
August 28, 2025
What a gift this book is. 10/10 recommend! This book is for anyone who struggles feeling like they aren’t doing enough. That God would be more pleased with you if you were “better.” For those who live in condemnation and shame. For those who live feeling distant from God. For those who struggle to believe anything good about your body. For those who feel like no one understands them. For those who know God loves them but don’t fully comprehend what that means. I highlighted something on nearly every page and plan to revisit this one often. Here are just a few favorite takeaways:
“If the voice you hear condemns you for sin that Jesus paid for, that voice does not belong to the Lord. Run from it. Run to Jesus, instead.” (pg. 56)
“It is God who gives us meaning and purpose, and until we grasp that, we’ll look for ways to make our mark that will only be fleeting and futile.” (pg. 107)
“Whatever it is you’re thinking or concerned about, you can, like David, ask the Lord to sift it. You can ask Him to reveal anything that doesn’t need to be there and to carry anything that’s too heavy for you to bear.” (pg. 127)
“No matter who you were or how you lived before you knew Jesus, God’s love obliterates every shard of brokenness. He makes you brand new.” (pg. 145)
“If the voice you hear condemns you for sin that Jesus paid for, that voice does not belong to the Lord. Run from it. Run to Jesus, instead.” (pg. 56)
“It is God who gives us meaning and purpose, and until we grasp that, we’ll look for ways to make our mark that will only be fleeting and futile.” (pg. 107)
“Whatever it is you’re thinking or concerned about, you can, like David, ask the Lord to sift it. You can ask Him to reveal anything that doesn’t need to be there and to carry anything that’s too heavy for you to bear.” (pg. 127)
“No matter who you were or how you lived before you knew Jesus, God’s love obliterates every shard of brokenness. He makes you brand new.” (pg. 145)
July 5, 2025
“When you let scripture speak to you of who God is, then you begin to see how God can both know and love.”
🌷About the Book:
How can we truly come to know, deep within our hearts, that God loves us unconditionally? In her heartfelt exploration of Psalm 139, Glenna invites us on a journey into the depths of God’s love. With a gentle and engaging approach, she guides readers through each verse of this powerful Psalm, illuminating how we are seen and cherished, even in our darkest moments of fear and pain, reminding us that we are never alone.
This book will not only encourage you, it will also invite you to dive further into scripture to saturate your soul with the unshakable truth of the love of our Heavenly Father.
🌷 This book is for you if:
✨ You struggle to believe God loves you.
✨ You experience feelings of shame or condemnation.
✨ You feel that God can’t possibly love you if He truly knows everything about you.
✨ You long to find encouragement and comfort in being truly loved and known by your Heavenly Father.
“How do you stop trying to earn what God made free? You start with scripture. You start with God’s very words to us about who He is and how He loves us.”
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
🌷About the Book:
How can we truly come to know, deep within our hearts, that God loves us unconditionally? In her heartfelt exploration of Psalm 139, Glenna invites us on a journey into the depths of God’s love. With a gentle and engaging approach, she guides readers through each verse of this powerful Psalm, illuminating how we are seen and cherished, even in our darkest moments of fear and pain, reminding us that we are never alone.
This book will not only encourage you, it will also invite you to dive further into scripture to saturate your soul with the unshakable truth of the love of our Heavenly Father.
🌷 This book is for you if:
✨ You struggle to believe God loves you.
✨ You experience feelings of shame or condemnation.
✨ You feel that God can’t possibly love you if He truly knows everything about you.
✨ You long to find encouragement and comfort in being truly loved and known by your Heavenly Father.
“How do you stop trying to earn what God made free? You start with scripture. You start with God’s very words to us about who He is and how He loves us.”
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 6, 2025
Marshall has written a very encouraging journey through Psalm 139. It is good to help us correct a false image of God we may have created where we wonder about His love for us. I was particularly struck by this insight: “We tend to believe that because we still struggle with sin, therefore God must still struggle to love us.” (104)
Marshall encourages us to start with Scripture in understanding God's character and His love for us. She suggests we choose a book of the Bible, such as Psalms or John. Read a small portion each day and jot down what is said about God. She did this, she says, and it changed her theology.
Marshall also includes how knowing God loves us will impact our lives. Our actions will be a result of our knowing God loves us and not something we do thinking we can earn God's love. She has included questions for reflection at the end of each chapter.
This is a good book for those of us who want reassurance God knows everything about us, what we have done, what our struggles are, and loves us.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Marshall encourages us to start with Scripture in understanding God's character and His love for us. She suggests we choose a book of the Bible, such as Psalms or John. Read a small portion each day and jot down what is said about God. She did this, she says, and it changed her theology.
Marshall also includes how knowing God loves us will impact our lives. Our actions will be a result of our knowing God loves us and not something we do thinking we can earn God's love. She has included questions for reflection at the end of each chapter.
This is a good book for those of us who want reassurance God knows everything about us, what we have done, what our struggles are, and loves us.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
November 13, 2025
“The longing to be unique and remembered is, at its core, a desire to be known and loved by someone who won’t forget us.”
Known & Loved by Glenna Marshall delves into the root of our desire to be known and loved, by taking a deep dive into Psalm 139 - verse by precious verse.
This book is such an impactful read. It answers questions such as, “Does God even like me?”, “What if I’m too ashamed to face God?”, and “What if I fear falling away?”
There are also insightful questions at the end of each chapter for you to answer.
The knowledge of scripture was spot on and the personal stories from the author were an added touch.
I highlighted so much of this book and am honestly at a loss for words. A definite 5 star for me and a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED book!!
*Thank you to Moody Publishers for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own. But seriously, get yourself a copy of this book!!😊)
Known & Loved by Glenna Marshall delves into the root of our desire to be known and loved, by taking a deep dive into Psalm 139 - verse by precious verse.
This book is such an impactful read. It answers questions such as, “Does God even like me?”, “What if I’m too ashamed to face God?”, and “What if I fear falling away?”
There are also insightful questions at the end of each chapter for you to answer.
The knowledge of scripture was spot on and the personal stories from the author were an added touch.
I highlighted so much of this book and am honestly at a loss for words. A definite 5 star for me and a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED book!!
*Thank you to Moody Publishers for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own. But seriously, get yourself a copy of this book!!😊)
August 28, 2025
“Psalm 139 is a celebration of being known, really known- and loved anyway- by God. God loves to love you.” What an absolute gem of a book! Beautiful exegesis of Psalm 139. Having enjoyed one of Glenna’s earlier books on Scripture memorisation. I was waiting to read this one. She pulls apart each verse faithfully, true to the Word and has amazing references to lot of famous Christian books, articles but more importantly how she uses scripture to interpret scripture. The book is very encouraging no matter where you are in your faith journey. Some chapters speak so deeply. I have never highlighted so many portions in a book as I did for this one. How encouraging to be reminded that God loves to love you and no sin can make His love less because He is the very definition of love.
This book was shared by Moody Publishers for review.
This book was shared by Moody Publishers for review.
July 23, 2025
This book is beautifully written and Biblically sound! With her own vulnerability and examples Marshall lovingly pointed out my own doubts and faulty works-based theology lingering in the recesses of my heart. Using Psalm 139, she expounded on God’s love and omniscience making it easier to see how he knows and loves us, faithfully, wholly, and eternally. This would be perfect for a book club or for a women’s Bible study group to read alongside scripture. The questions at the end of each chapter make for easy facilitation and conversation. Psalm 139 is going to stay with me thanks to this book, especially verse 5: “you hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.” What daily grace to be this known and loved!
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