Facing Storms: Devotions for Thought & Meditation

by Cheryl Zelenka

In FACING DEVOTIONS FOR THOUGHT AND MEDITATION, Ms. Zelenka continues her theme of perspective. Within this second book of a devotional trilogy, the reader will quickly recognize a common thread regarding storms, trials, and adversity. Ms Zelenka asserts that such times are actually blessings from a loving God since they serve to teach perseverance and aide in the maturation of Christian faith.The entire trilogy was inspired by James 1:2-4. “Whether you are seeking comfort and hope as you walk through a dark valley, or are simply looking to be encouraged and strengthened; ‘Facing Devotions For Thought And Meditation’ will be a cherished resource.” Greg Holt/ The Olive Branch Report This instructional and edifying devotional is brimming with ideas, and will challenge even the most spiritually mature to pause, reflect, and reconsider their way of thinking. The Bible tells us that God is the giver of all good things (James 1:17), and since He is unable to lie (Numbers 23:19), how can believers view adversity as a curse? Is it not more reasonable to think of difficult times as misunderstood blessings from God?"

264 pages, Paperback

First published September 24, 2014

About the author

I was born in Detroit, MI to a couple who are still happily married. I consider my parents one of my greatest blessings. They brought me up with love and faith.

I taught elementary school for over 25 years. Due to a brain tumor, I developed clinical depression and quit my job. With God's grace I faced my GIANTS and started a new life as an author. My passion is to use personal trials to encourage others in their walk with God.

My second book, Divine Interruptions: A Bible Study Through The Book Of Job is now available on Amazon. I share my struggle recovering from brain surgery and align the experience with lessons found in this wonderful story.

My newest writing adventure is in creating the Sadie Sunshine Cozy Mystery Series. School Lunch is Murder and Belly up in the Koi Pond are both available on Amazon.

I presently live in Colorado Springs with my two dogs, Bosco Bill and Akasha Kelly

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Facing Storms: Devotions for Thought & Meditation by author Cheryl Zelenka is both a devotional and a book to give the Christian reader insight and perspective when afflictions and trials come our way. The seventeen chapters focus on hope, relationship, confusion, faith, peace and rest, sin and forgiveness, prayer, joy, God's will,plan,and purpose, Heaven, protection, fear, patience, the Spirit filled life, perspective, bitterness, and storms and trials.

Zelenka teaches in her book how to have the right attitude and mindset and how to not just "get through" our difficulties, but also how to trust God, be joyful, and mature through them. Zelelka explains, "God has equipped you and me to overcome every adversity in life. Through faith and the gift of prayer, we may call upon His supernatural strength any time we feel weak, overwhelmed, or discouraged. He is always willing to help, advise, protect, encourage...and forgive!" (page 94)

Furthermore, Zelenka's book focuses on God's soverienty and His great plan for each of our lives- which includes the adversities that He allows to occur. Zelenka writes, "Pain and affliction are tools used by the Master Sculptor to fashion His creation into amazing works of art. We do well to accept these instruments of suffering for they serve a mighty and worthwhile purpose." (page 168)

This book is a great read. It is filled with Scripture verses and wisdom with many quotes from other Christians. It is well researched, thought out, and written. My now much underlined and highlighted book will be a reference that I will return to when I need reminding of God's truths and promises.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all go through storms in our life in a different shape or form. My initial motive to read this book (I also read her first book Facing Trials: Thoughts for Meditation) was that Cheryl Zelenka is a survivor herself! She has been through tough storms in her personal life (brain tumor survivor) among other challenges. Her attitude in life sets a great example of how we can live with encouragement despite what each of us may be going through. The book focuses on topics like hope, fear, relationships, and bitterness among others. It can be read by a wide audience; young or adult being Miss Zelenka’s writing style is easy to understand as each chapter is precise on the topic. I also like that she guides and motivates the reader to take time to reflect on different Scripture and quotes by great authors/thinkers. I recommend Facing Storms as a reference book to have and keep for life. Each page will lift you up in hope and most importantly open your heart to a better understanding of God’s love and Faithfulness.

[Steven · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book and the author uses biblical truths to help the reader through all types of life's difficulties . I found myself highlighting lots of this book. The quotes from famous people and from scripture both serve to support the point that the author is making. It is apparent that scripture is held in the highest regard in the author's life.

Steven Brown
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