Grace to Overcome: 31 Devotions on God's Work Through Black History

by Bryan C. Loritts, Charlie Dates (foreword)

Empowering Your Journey, One Story at A Time.

Grace to Overcome invites you on a spiritual and historical journey, interweaving the rich tapestry of black history with the profound narratives of the Bible. Crafted by Pastor Bryan C. Loritts, an influential voice in multiethnic church movements, Grace to Overcome is a powerful collection of 31 devotions that bring to life the stories of both renowned and lesser-known figures who have help shaped society. From the soulful notes of Miles Davis and Billie Holiday to the groundbreaking inventions of Jerry Lawson and Alice H. Parker, each story is an inspiring testament to resilience and faith.

Through these reflections, Loritts not only shines a light on the triumphs and trials of black history across various arenas including sports, politics, and technology, but also challenges readers to see their personal journeys within God's grand design. In a world where the importance of learning black history often faces scrutiny, Grace to Overcome stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of heritage and the gospel’s call to live with grace and purpose. Embark on this devotional path and discover how each story, including your own, contributes to the divine narrative.

168 pages, Hardcover

Published August 19, 2025

Reviews

[DeAron Washington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bryan Loritts has provided the church with a treasure "for such a. time as this." He walks the reader through 31 reflections on black historical figures to cultivate empathy for African Americans. He highlights a range of African American figures from Whitney Houston to James Baldwin. For those who love to consider black history, read this book. For those who struggle to understand Black history and/or the contributions of your chocolate brothers and sisters, read this book. For those who are unsure, read this book.

This book blessed my soul, and I encourage you to let it bless yours.

I could say much more, but I challenge you to read it.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

I find this to be a hard book to review. I am not part of the target audience necessarily, and it is a pretty niche topic, but I always appreciate Bryan Loritts' insights, so I wanted to give this a try. Here are some thoughts:

-I loved the introduction, in which Pastor Bryan shares his heart behind the writing. He illustrates the principle of love compelling us to learn more about those we are closest to by sharing how he and his kids love his wife by touring her old stomping grounds each time they visit her family. Similarly, a big "why" of learning about Black History within the context of the church is that our learning shows our care. "History really does matter in our journey into unity."
-There was a decent blend of well-known figures and names I'd never heard of!
-Bryan Loritts is without a doubt a master storyteller, but sometimes, I felt like the connection to a biblical principle was a reach.
-As devotionals go, this is heavy on the storytelling and light on meaty Bible truths. I think there is a place for that, but it might not be my *first* recommendation for a devotional. However, if you're wanting to dive deeper into the "family conversation," pick this up and enjoy!

Many thanks to Netgalley and IVP for the advanced review copy. All opinions are my own.

[Otis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a bias when it comes to Bryan Loritts. I’ve read a few books by him now. All have been great. I read this material not as a devotional but as a chapter book. The stories within were informative and well written. Dr. Loritts has a special way of how he vividly tells these stories which draws you in, then applies biblical truths. This is another awesome example of Bryan using the gift God has blessed him with to help others in our walk.

[Beverly Ann Beauchamp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thirty-one devotionals that spoke of God’s Work through Black History. I am in awe and confess that there is a part of me that wants to re-read starting tomorrow. So much I did not know and am glad to mull over. I loved Zipporah’s Hot Comb! Each devotion spoke to me and I pray will continue to do so as I soak in what I learned.

Good news though, as Bryan C. Loritts has other books for me to add to my reading list!