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12 Seconds
"Two of my greatest fears have always been hearing the words, ‘You have cancer,’ and being falsely accused of a crime. Well, I guess I can scratch two things off my anti-bucket list.”
Twelve Seconds is a compelling work of narrative nonfiction that chronicles the extraordinary thirty-year ministry of mentor and youth leader Tim Sharer, culminating in the devastating aftermath of a false accusation against him. Through three decades of Christian mentoring young men—many of whom became leaders in ministry, business, the military, academia, professional sports, and public service—Tim built a multigenerational community rooted in faith, accountability, and brotherhood.
But in 2021, in just twelve seconds, everything changed.
This book serves as both a testimony of faith under fire and a deeply personal exploration of legacy, suffering, loyalty, and God’s sustaining presence during the darkest hours. With raw honesty and irrefutable vulnerability, Tim recounts the emotional, spiritual, and relational toll of navigating rumors, betrayals, broken trust, and even death threats—while the very men he once discipled rallied around him in an unexpected reversal of roles.
Part memoir, part spiritual reflection, and part inspirational guide for anyone walking through crisis, in Twelve Seconds Tim shares his story in his own words illuminating what it means to endure hardship while clinging to faith and community.
Twelve Seconds is a compelling work of narrative nonfiction that chronicles the extraordinary thirty-year ministry of mentor and youth leader Tim Sharer, culminating in the devastating aftermath of a false accusation against him. Through three decades of Christian mentoring young men—many of whom became leaders in ministry, business, the military, academia, professional sports, and public service—Tim built a multigenerational community rooted in faith, accountability, and brotherhood.
But in 2021, in just twelve seconds, everything changed.
This book serves as both a testimony of faith under fire and a deeply personal exploration of legacy, suffering, loyalty, and God’s sustaining presence during the darkest hours. With raw honesty and irrefutable vulnerability, Tim recounts the emotional, spiritual, and relational toll of navigating rumors, betrayals, broken trust, and even death threats—while the very men he once discipled rallied around him in an unexpected reversal of roles.
Part memoir, part spiritual reflection, and part inspirational guide for anyone walking through crisis, in Twelve Seconds Tim shares his story in his own words illuminating what it means to endure hardship while clinging to faith and community.
- GenresNonfiction
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 25, 2025
2 people are currently reading
4641 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 11, 2025
What an amazing read! I actually received this book from winning the Goodreads giveaway, which automatically gives this book an extra star (6 star book for sure). I read this book cover to cover.. could not get enough! This book made me laugh and made me tear up. I cannot even begin to imagine the immense struggles Tim went through, and to hear how his faith only strengthened is so incredible. I find myself a teeny bit jealous of those blessed to have had Tim in their life! He seems like an incredible role model in all aspects of life, and it’s so evident he has a heart of gold just from his writing.
March 28, 2025
12 Seconds is a compelling and deeply moving account of faith, resilience, and redemption. Tim has dedicated his life to ministering to teens, building a strong and loving family, and successfully running a financial practice. But when he was wrongfully accused, and diagnosed with cancer, everything he had built seemed to crumble in an instant.
Despite facing one of the darkest seasons of his life, Tim's faith never wavered—because God never left his side. In 12 Seconds, he not only shares powerful stories from his years in ministry but also provides a raw and honest look at how he clung to his faith through unimaginable trials. His journey is a testament to God’s unwavering presence and the power of perseverance.
This book is exceptionally well-written and easy to read, making it accessible to anyone in need of encouragement. Whether you are facing your own struggles or simply looking for an inspiring story of grace and vindication, 12 Seconds will uplift and strengthen your faith.
I highly recommend grabbing a copy on Amazon today—you won’t regret it!
Despite facing one of the darkest seasons of his life, Tim's faith never wavered—because God never left his side. In 12 Seconds, he not only shares powerful stories from his years in ministry but also provides a raw and honest look at how he clung to his faith through unimaginable trials. His journey is a testament to God’s unwavering presence and the power of perseverance.
This book is exceptionally well-written and easy to read, making it accessible to anyone in need of encouragement. Whether you are facing your own struggles or simply looking for an inspiring story of grace and vindication, 12 Seconds will uplift and strengthen your faith.
I highly recommend grabbing a copy on Amazon today—you won’t regret it!
April 1, 2025
The whole book was a slam piece on what seems to be a victims father? The whole time reading it came off desperate for the reader to believe his side. I think if you have any bit of intuition you’ll read right through his intentions. If you care about victims of sexual assault you won’t give your money towards this trash. I can’t believe this was published. What’s next, Oj Simpson’s book about how Nicole was mean to him?
March 14, 2025
Such a great read! Everyone in ministry should read this book.
March 14, 2025
There is one verse that keeps coming to mind page after page of this book.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
Tim Sharer testimony of how to be Gods hands and feet in the battle field of youth ministry is absolutely breathtaking. It comes with grit and dedication that not many have the patience to endure. My deepest respect goes to him and his family as they poured into so many young men’s life’s in our area of Houston!
So many tears were shed reading this book. The rawness of it all makes my heart sick. It’s a story of betrayal of the justice system, church, and “godly friends”. My heart is broken that he and his family had to endure this terrible nightmare seemingly alone. But one thing is ABUNDANTLY clear through the whole book. Though he was deserted by his church, the school, and those around him… God was with him every step of the way. And Tim’s faith as tested as it was never wavered; he stood steadfast through it all and stands steadfast even still today! I believe wholeheartedly that what Satan used to destroy his ministry, only amplified it! Truth will always prevail!
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
Tim Sharer testimony of how to be Gods hands and feet in the battle field of youth ministry is absolutely breathtaking. It comes with grit and dedication that not many have the patience to endure. My deepest respect goes to him and his family as they poured into so many young men’s life’s in our area of Houston!
So many tears were shed reading this book. The rawness of it all makes my heart sick. It’s a story of betrayal of the justice system, church, and “godly friends”. My heart is broken that he and his family had to endure this terrible nightmare seemingly alone. But one thing is ABUNDANTLY clear through the whole book. Though he was deserted by his church, the school, and those around him… God was with him every step of the way. And Tim’s faith as tested as it was never wavered; he stood steadfast through it all and stands steadfast even still today! I believe wholeheartedly that what Satan used to destroy his ministry, only amplified it! Truth will always prevail!
March 2, 2025
This is a must read!! Tim's inspiring story will have you laughing and crying. Highly recommend!
April 16, 2025
We never think of bad things happening to good people. What would you do if false accusations and lies were hurtled your way? Slanderous and hateful remarks were thrown at Tim Sharer and he captured his raw emotions in this book. Tim’s faith in GOD carried it through a hellacious time of his life and his story is one that can help others. This is a must read for anyone who may be struggling with circumstances beyond their control.
May 28, 2025
In a society creeping towards immorality guised as moral relativism, those who live by a moral code are at a progressively steeper disadvantage by the day. Navigating a corrupt world while being bound by the Truth leaves one exposed to attacks from those willing to deceive towards their own depraved ends.
Tim's story exemplifies this reality, especially as it pertains to true Christians and the wolves that hide within the flock. More importantly, however, it is a reminder that despite the trials and suffering we may encounter along the way, we are always wiser to trust God's plan over our own worldly ambitions.
Regardless of your worldview or spiritual beliefs, I strongly urge you to give this book a read. Even if you aren't convinced of the importance of one's faith in God, you will at least understand the impact that personal sacrifice can have on the lives of others. Who knows, you might even be so moved as to do the same in your own life.
Tim's story exemplifies this reality, especially as it pertains to true Christians and the wolves that hide within the flock. More importantly, however, it is a reminder that despite the trials and suffering we may encounter along the way, we are always wiser to trust God's plan over our own worldly ambitions.
Regardless of your worldview or spiritual beliefs, I strongly urge you to give this book a read. Even if you aren't convinced of the importance of one's faith in God, you will at least understand the impact that personal sacrifice can have on the lives of others. Who knows, you might even be so moved as to do the same in your own life.
March 25, 2025
The way I see it is that God (our Father) loves us no matter how sinful we may be but like any father He longs to raise us to be perfect . Jesus said “ I and my Father are one …Your Father in heaven is perfect therefore be Ye as perfect as your Father in heaven” So clearly God took human form to inspire us to strive to obey God perfectly out of love.
What is also TOTALLY OBVIOUS TO ME is that God- the 100% pure Love - would never condemn even His MOST disobedient children to ETERNAL punishment. He would never cease his efforts to guide even the most lost of his sheep back his flock of to perfect obedient children . He might certainly impress upon the disobedient the error of their ways by making them under go the consequences of their actions (rewards for obeying and punishment for disobeying) but he would NEVER EVER give up on any of his children and say “OK you did not become perfect within the time limit I set and so must be cast into everlasting punishment
So its seem crystal clear to me (if not to any one else) that God loves us and wants us to be perfect and that God-being all powerful - sooner or later gets exactly what He wants. Since God is the most loving Father ever He wants is what is best for his children --"The lord chastens whom he loveth" .
So we can to become like him and be reunited with Him. God is omni potent which means He ALWAYS gets what he wants so there’s nothing and no one who can stop him from eventually perfecting each and every one of us . Philippians 1:6
It's clear to me that there are no chosen children of God --there are only children of God and God never forsakes any child but will keep working with each child wit inexhaustible patience and strategy until every single one of us is perfect and gets to enjoy perfect bliss for eternity.
I don't see how it could be any other way.
I don’t know where the concept of an eternal hell came into the church( a membership drive ?) but I don’t buy it .
Even the justice systems of this world this world don’t issue infinite punishment for finite sins.
Then would, God who is loving and merciful , issue infinite punishment for finite sins? (POSH!)
I believe that God gives people the freedom make their own choice to obey or disobey then lets them experience the consequences of their chooses so they eventually get to the point that they see that God's will is better than theirs and . after seeking happiness in both God's will and self will they discover for themselves that God's will is the way to happiness.
The Bible also says we should not judge other each other but lovingly explain and help each other other obstacles to obedience(bad habits, fear etc) because that is a God like thing to do.
Just as God never permanently rejects us we should always be ready to accept any one who repents and wants to over come bad habits or feats and walk in God's will.
If you have to be perfect to join a group what is the point ?A Sincere desire is enough.
Any neurologist will tell you that autopsies of the brains of those who watch porn have the centers near the brain stem enlarged and while the frontal and superior brain centers(where we contact God) shrink .
Galatians 6:7-8 ESV says
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.”
I gat sucked into and watched porn for 2.5 months. I could not leave it and I give it up by thinking about other things I wanted in life that I could not have if I watched porn. Every time the thought of porn came in my mind I IMMMEDIATLY thought of these heroic hear warming scenes that only a pure heart could star in and I got more satisfaction from nobly serving God and society that so badly needed me than selfishly pursuing ignoble thoughts.
That's how I beat porn every day --I just think IMMEDIATLY of something higher sublime noble with a great desire to be THAT guy and let the thoughts of porn starve for lack of attention .
For example Naruto - Sadness And Sorrow flute solo
"to every man there opens a high way and a low and every man decides the way his soul shall go "
( "To every man there opens a high way and a low, and every man decides the way his soul shall go" is a quote from John Oxenham's poem "The Way of the Soul," emphasizing individual responsibility and free will in choosing one's path. )
So choose your bliss --the sublime or the grotesque--the way that leads to light or darkness
but the mind MUST have bliss
Ask God to give you higher bliss and to show te music and movies and friends that lead towards rather tan away from it
What is also TOTALLY OBVIOUS TO ME is that God- the 100% pure Love - would never condemn even His MOST disobedient children to ETERNAL punishment. He would never cease his efforts to guide even the most lost of his sheep back his flock of to perfect obedient children . He might certainly impress upon the disobedient the error of their ways by making them under go the consequences of their actions (rewards for obeying and punishment for disobeying) but he would NEVER EVER give up on any of his children and say “OK you did not become perfect within the time limit I set and so must be cast into everlasting punishment
So its seem crystal clear to me (if not to any one else) that God loves us and wants us to be perfect and that God-being all powerful - sooner or later gets exactly what He wants. Since God is the most loving Father ever He wants is what is best for his children --"The lord chastens whom he loveth" .
So we can to become like him and be reunited with Him. God is omni potent which means He ALWAYS gets what he wants so there’s nothing and no one who can stop him from eventually perfecting each and every one of us . Philippians 1:6
It's clear to me that there are no chosen children of God --there are only children of God and God never forsakes any child but will keep working with each child wit inexhaustible patience and strategy until every single one of us is perfect and gets to enjoy perfect bliss for eternity.
I don't see how it could be any other way.
I don’t know where the concept of an eternal hell came into the church( a membership drive ?) but I don’t buy it .
Even the justice systems of this world this world don’t issue infinite punishment for finite sins.
Then would, God who is loving and merciful , issue infinite punishment for finite sins? (POSH!)
I believe that God gives people the freedom make their own choice to obey or disobey then lets them experience the consequences of their chooses so they eventually get to the point that they see that God's will is better than theirs and . after seeking happiness in both God's will and self will they discover for themselves that God's will is the way to happiness.
The Bible also says we should not judge other each other but lovingly explain and help each other other obstacles to obedience(bad habits, fear etc) because that is a God like thing to do.
Just as God never permanently rejects us we should always be ready to accept any one who repents and wants to over come bad habits or feats and walk in God's will.
If you have to be perfect to join a group what is the point ?A Sincere desire is enough.
Any neurologist will tell you that autopsies of the brains of those who watch porn have the centers near the brain stem enlarged and while the frontal and superior brain centers(where we contact God) shrink .
Galatians 6:7-8 ESV says
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.”
I gat sucked into and watched porn for 2.5 months. I could not leave it and I give it up by thinking about other things I wanted in life that I could not have if I watched porn. Every time the thought of porn came in my mind I IMMMEDIATLY thought of these heroic hear warming scenes that only a pure heart could star in and I got more satisfaction from nobly serving God and society that so badly needed me than selfishly pursuing ignoble thoughts.
That's how I beat porn every day --I just think IMMEDIATLY of something higher sublime noble with a great desire to be THAT guy and let the thoughts of porn starve for lack of attention .
For example Naruto - Sadness And Sorrow flute solo
"to every man there opens a high way and a low and every man decides the way his soul shall go "
( "To every man there opens a high way and a low, and every man decides the way his soul shall go" is a quote from John Oxenham's poem "The Way of the Soul," emphasizing individual responsibility and free will in choosing one's path. )
So choose your bliss --the sublime or the grotesque--the way that leads to light or darkness
but the mind MUST have bliss
Ask God to give you higher bliss and to show te music and movies and friends that lead towards rather tan away from it
April 21, 2025
12 seconds is an incredible account of a godly man’s walk, glorifying God every step of the way. It’s unique in the fact that it’s heartwarming, but tragic at the same time. This man has been on the mountaintop and recently found the bottom of the valley. It’s an amazing story of his ministry working with young men, not only in the biggest decision of their life (accepting Jesus Christ), but also the next steps (How to genuinely choose God every day). He shares his experience of going through the biggest trial of his life, being falsely accused of a crime that he did not commit. The sad thing is all he was doing was protecting a young man. When all hell seemed to break loose, he still found peace, knowing God was in control. He finishes this book with anecdotes and easy things that we can do to better pursue God and lead others to do the same. I am not a big reader by any stretch, but Tim can keep his audience captivated.
April 18, 2025
5-Stars - It’s Captivating, Encouraging, & full of Faithfulness
"12 Seconds" is a captivating book that is hard to put down. Make sure to block off some time in your schedule and have your favorite hot brew coffee in an insulated mug on standby. It presents the honest truth about one man's journey of faith while living in a fallen world. As I read "12 Seconds," it felt like catching up with an old friend who had gone through a difficult few years. Yet, throughout it all, God provides support, sending people and signs—both big and small—as he navigates this extremely challenging journey.
"12 Seconds" is a captivating book that is hard to put down. Make sure to block off some time in your schedule and have your favorite hot brew coffee in an insulated mug on standby. It presents the honest truth about one man's journey of faith while living in a fallen world. As I read "12 Seconds," it felt like catching up with an old friend who had gone through a difficult few years. Yet, throughout it all, God provides support, sending people and signs—both big and small—as he navigates this extremely challenging journey.
May 10, 2025
This book is about a Godly man whose life was turned into a nightmare propagated by an evil lie. Timothy was falsely accused of a crime that he never committed. The book shows how Timothy’s faith and trust in God helped him survive and deal with this evil accusation. As you read the book, you will discover the surprising and astonishing reason WHY Tim was falsely accused! I couldn’t put the book down until I found out the reason- the unbelievable reason- for the false accusation against Timothy. It “blew my mind!”
This is a “must read”! This nightmare could happen to anyone!
This is a “must read”! This nightmare could happen to anyone!
July 24, 2025
The first night I was going to read a chapter, but chapter after chapter I couldn't put it down (until wisdom said, "Ma'am, you have to go to work in a few hours so get a little sleep.")
I was marveling at each illumination of this man's journey through impactful ministry and great adversity. The real and raw of it all had me in a place of praise and wonder that God was and is in Tim mightily. So many lessons that can be applied in all areas of life.
A great and inspiring LIFE testimony, rooted in the power of the gospel.
I was marveling at each illumination of this man's journey through impactful ministry and great adversity. The real and raw of it all had me in a place of praise and wonder that God was and is in Tim mightily. So many lessons that can be applied in all areas of life.
A great and inspiring LIFE testimony, rooted in the power of the gospel.
May 5, 2025
If you've ever been dismayed, afraid or betrayed this is a book you must read. Good guys don't always finish last. Wrongly accused and dumped by people he had trusted for decades, Sharer's shattered life brought him to his knees and that's just where he found peace and the justice only the power of God could provide. A handbook for anyone who has lost hope; for people who have been knocked down by an assault they never saw coming and for everyone who knows all too well what rock bottom looks like,
April 27, 2025
What an incredible read!!! I couldn’t put the book down.
What a testimony that Tim has. The countless people that was truly ministered to by Tim!. What a Servant of God!!!
The book also shares the Evil that is out in the World!
I would recommend this book and would give more stars if I could!!!!
What a testimony that Tim has. The countless people that was truly ministered to by Tim!. What a Servant of God!!!
The book also shares the Evil that is out in the World!
I would recommend this book and would give more stars if I could!!!!
January 10, 2026
An amazing journaled for anyone to read and learn to keep trust in check with God.
The TGs are great reminders of how we influence people we may not even know. What the author went through in his journey would test anyone's core.
It helped me consider some issue in my own life and view them a bit differently.
A most memorable read.
The TGs are great reminders of how we influence people we may not even know. What the author went through in his journey would test anyone's core.
It helped me consider some issue in my own life and view them a bit differently.
A most memorable read.
April 26, 2025
Read 12 seconds you will not regret it. It talks about Tim’s time in youth ministry, and then talks about a storm he went through in his life that changed him forever. It’ll make you laugh, cry, and get upset. Don’t skip over this book!!
March 14, 2025
An encouraging testimony of walking with God through earthly trials
May 5, 2025
Wow could not this book down! I can’t imagine being falsely accused but not only that the way it was handled was awful. This book will help many in the ministry and those falsely accused. Recommend
June 10, 2025
This man was wrongly accused and to be more informed you must read this book! It is scary to know this can happen to someone!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews