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Through the Eyes of a Lion
What will you do when the unthinkable happens in your life? Her parents called her Lenya Lion because of her ferocious personality and hair that had been wild and mane-like since birth. But they never expected that, five days before Christmas, their five-year-old daughter would suddenly go to heaven after an asthma attack. How do you walk out of an emergency room without your daughter? In Through the Eyes of a Lion , Pastor Levi Lusko shares the eye-opening truth of the power of hope in a world that is often filled with pain, suffering, and loss. He says, "This book isn't a manual for grieving, but a manifesto for high-octane living, and through it I want you to see that God made you for a purpose. There is a wild and wonderful calling on your life, a microphone in your hands. Jesus wants you to look at the adventure of your life through His eyes, the eyes of a Lion." Part memoir but all overtly instructive and deeply inspirational, Through the Eyes of a Lion gives listeners the tools they need to face their fears and turn their journey into a roar story. Chapter themes • Don't rely on the naked eye
• Run towards the roar
• There's no such thing as a wireless anchor
• Let God use your pain
• Cue the eagle What we do in life really does echo in eternity. You are destined for impact, and there's not a moment to lose!
• Run towards the roar
• There's no such thing as a wireless anchor
• Let God use your pain
• Cue the eagle What we do in life really does echo in eternity. You are destined for impact, and there's not a moment to lose!
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First published August 4, 2015
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About the author
Levi Lusko
49 books477 followersLevi Lusko is the founder and lead pastor of Fresh Life Church, located in Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, and Utah and everywhere online. He is the bestselling author of Through the Eyes of a Lion, Swipe Right, I Declare War, Take Back Your Life, Roar Like a Lion, and The Last Supper on the Moon. Levi also travels the world speaking about Jesus. He and his wife, Jennie, have one son, Lennox, and four daughters: Alivia, Daisy, Clover, and Lenya, who is in heaven.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 444 reviews
August 4, 2015
Through the Eyes of a Lion is more than just a manual for dealing with grief. In Levi's words, it's "a manifesto for high-octane living." Those words couldn't be more true. I've never experienced the level of pain that Levi and his wife Jennie did the day their daughter Lenya left this earth. But I have struggled with fear, anxiety, and defeat, and I walked away from this book encouraged and empowered to change the way I view the challenges in my life.
Posing questions like "How do you live out an extraordinary calling while doing ordinary things and living in a world that is all screwed up?" Levi uses his real life experiences to teach you how to hurt with hope, look past what you can see, and let go of fear to become the you you were meant to be. And he does so with a mix of authenticity, brevity, gravity and humor that makes this not only a powerful read, but one you can easily engage with. From "cue the eagle" to "pain is a microphone" and "run toward the roar" the pages are full of tidbits of wisdom and key phrases that will stick with you long after you finish reading. Whether you're struggling under the weight of seemingly unbearable pain, or facing the everyday difficulties of life, this book offers renewed hope--for both your present and your future.
Posing questions like "How do you live out an extraordinary calling while doing ordinary things and living in a world that is all screwed up?" Levi uses his real life experiences to teach you how to hurt with hope, look past what you can see, and let go of fear to become the you you were meant to be. And he does so with a mix of authenticity, brevity, gravity and humor that makes this not only a powerful read, but one you can easily engage with. From "cue the eagle" to "pain is a microphone" and "run toward the roar" the pages are full of tidbits of wisdom and key phrases that will stick with you long after you finish reading. Whether you're struggling under the weight of seemingly unbearable pain, or facing the everyday difficulties of life, this book offers renewed hope--for both your present and your future.
August 8, 2015
"Your suffering is being used to create the anointing oil for the next level God wants you to reach. Squeeze every drop out of your trial. Let nothing be wasted . Hold nothing back. None of your tears have fallen to the ground unseen. God has a plan to put each of your difficulties to use like a seed that goes into the ground and brings forth a harvest of righteousness." Pg118
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March 28, 2024I lost my brother in February. To describe who he was and what his death means to my family would be a whole book unto itself. Grief like this is the strangest pain I've ever felt; physically exhausting, mentally overwhelming, and spiritually urgent and terrifying. As the members of my family and I look around for meaning, we are turning to all sorts of things, hoping at least some of them can be a distraction, a balm, or an inspiration. Levi Lusko's fast-moving book was all three, and I'm grateful to him for the vulnerability it took to narrate and reflect on his family's loss of their 5 year-old daughter and the strength they found in their Christian faith.
"Truly, truly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit." — John 12:24 (NASB). May Landon and his memory continue to bear fruit, in ways both immediately observable and far too subtle for us to see or understand.
"Truly, truly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit." — John 12:24 (NASB). May Landon and his memory continue to bear fruit, in ways both immediately observable and far too subtle for us to see or understand.
February 23, 2019
Wow. This book was so good. Extremely painful. But very real, relatable, and well-written. Unable to attend church in person because of major health issues, Fresh Life has been my family's church for a while now, and we "attend" every Sunday. But somehow, I never read Pastor Levi's book until now. My mom and sister read it a year ago, so we owned it, but somehow I never got around to it. Then, this past Christmas, my sister bought me the paperback copy.
Two months later, I'm sitting here trying to let all that I read sink in. The book wasn't long -- the chapters were relatively short and the book was easy to read -- but wow, was it powerful. I'm glad I didn't read it until now. God knew exactly when I would need it, and each chapter was so timely to where I am in life. Though Mr. Lusko was writing about grieving his four-year-old daughter's unexpected death, as Corrie ten Boom says, “Human hearts are amazingly alike.”
The last few months I've found myself in my own grieving process -- mourning all the things that chronic illness has stolen from me and broken. Especially the relationships. And God used this book to help me in ways I can't express -- they're just too personal. I cried as I read. I laughed (Levi's humor is great). And I deeply appreciated all the fictional references.
I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone in a hard season of life -- even if it isn't grieving. Or to anyone wanting to help others through a hard season of life. This book, while it helped me in my own grieving, touches on so many topics and universal truths. It touched many other places in my heart, not just the ones damaged by illness.
“For every person who has been destroyed by suffering, there are probably ten who have been wrecked by success.” -Levi Lusko, Through the Eyes of a Lion
“Whether you are sixteen or sixty, no matter where you have been or what you have seen, you haven’t even scratched the surface of all that God intends for you.” -Levi Lusko, Through the Eyes of a Lion
“God doesn’t expect you to be happy about what has been torn from your hands—whether it’s a marriage, your health, a job, or someone you love—but if you are willing, he can turn your trash into triumph.” -Levi Lusko, Through the Eyes of a Lion
“Masking pain doesn’t heal it any faster; it actually slows it down and stunts your rehabilitation.” -Levi Lusko, Through the Eyes of a Lion
Two months later, I'm sitting here trying to let all that I read sink in. The book wasn't long -- the chapters were relatively short and the book was easy to read -- but wow, was it powerful. I'm glad I didn't read it until now. God knew exactly when I would need it, and each chapter was so timely to where I am in life. Though Mr. Lusko was writing about grieving his four-year-old daughter's unexpected death, as Corrie ten Boom says, “Human hearts are amazingly alike.”
The last few months I've found myself in my own grieving process -- mourning all the things that chronic illness has stolen from me and broken. Especially the relationships. And God used this book to help me in ways I can't express -- they're just too personal. I cried as I read. I laughed (Levi's humor is great). And I deeply appreciated all the fictional references.
I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone in a hard season of life -- even if it isn't grieving. Or to anyone wanting to help others through a hard season of life. This book, while it helped me in my own grieving, touches on so many topics and universal truths. It touched many other places in my heart, not just the ones damaged by illness.
“For every person who has been destroyed by suffering, there are probably ten who have been wrecked by success.” -Levi Lusko, Through the Eyes of a Lion
“Whether you are sixteen or sixty, no matter where you have been or what you have seen, you haven’t even scratched the surface of all that God intends for you.” -Levi Lusko, Through the Eyes of a Lion
“God doesn’t expect you to be happy about what has been torn from your hands—whether it’s a marriage, your health, a job, or someone you love—but if you are willing, he can turn your trash into triumph.” -Levi Lusko, Through the Eyes of a Lion
“Masking pain doesn’t heal it any faster; it actually slows it down and stunts your rehabilitation.” -Levi Lusko, Through the Eyes of a Lion
July 27, 2018
Where to begin? I feel vicious giving a one star review since the title of the book clearly is about the death of this pastor’s daughter. While this is tragic, I have no idea what his message was that he is trying to convey. He jumps around so much it is as though he’s just compiled random thoughts onto paper in no particular order. I also do not understand the analogies of scripture to Spider-Man and Snow White, etc. I also didn’t realize when I’d begun reading that he is an evangelist. When he pointed that out early on, I should have put the book down but I thought I’d go against my gut and give him a chance. My mother enjoys reading faith based books and I have been attempting to find more for her that will help her during her struggle with an illness. This is not going to make the cut.
What I found most difficult to read and I know would stop my mother in her tracks is this passage: “‘Sir, you have six months to live’ is not something anyone wants to hear, but if your doctor says that to you, know that it is a gift. Not just for you—because it forces you to confront your mortality and gives you the chance to prepare—but for everyone who loves you as well, because they will get the chance to say good-bye.”—— this is utter bullshit and I find it appalling that he can claim this is a better way to die than a sudden death. Clearly he doesn’t know how people that are given “six months to live” suffer endlessly. He doesn’t know the stress and anxiety that comes along with this timeline. There is no “better” way to die, whether it be sudden or not. The fact that he cannot relate and he is a supposed pastor is disheartening.
I am devastated at his family’s loss of this little girl but I found his profound pride at his large church (cult?) following and his many mentions of this to be quite distracting. I gained absolutely nothing from this book aside from the fact that he really hammered home that nonbelievers will not be accepted into the pearly gates.
What I found most difficult to read and I know would stop my mother in her tracks is this passage: “‘Sir, you have six months to live’ is not something anyone wants to hear, but if your doctor says that to you, know that it is a gift. Not just for you—because it forces you to confront your mortality and gives you the chance to prepare—but for everyone who loves you as well, because they will get the chance to say good-bye.”—— this is utter bullshit and I find it appalling that he can claim this is a better way to die than a sudden death. Clearly he doesn’t know how people that are given “six months to live” suffer endlessly. He doesn’t know the stress and anxiety that comes along with this timeline. There is no “better” way to die, whether it be sudden or not. The fact that he cannot relate and he is a supposed pastor is disheartening.
I am devastated at his family’s loss of this little girl but I found his profound pride at his large church (cult?) following and his many mentions of this to be quite distracting. I gained absolutely nothing from this book aside from the fact that he really hammered home that nonbelievers will not be accepted into the pearly gates.
July 4, 2018
Blessed are those who mourn. (Matthew 5:4) “There are gifts you get from God in the midst of grief that you would never have had the bandwidth to receive if everything was going as planned.”
At first glance, this book is written for a narrow, specialized audience: Christians who have suffered a tragic loss. Actually, it is intended for those who have or will suffer a tragic loss: all of us. Lusko lost a kindergarten-aged child just before Christmas. Your loss may not be so dramatic as his, but you have or will suffer, too, and you will discover him to be a kindred soul.
“God made me stronger, so the pain is not always unbearable, but the weight hasn’t gotten any lighter.”
Non-Christian readers may struggle with the Biblical point of view and vocabulary, but many will find solace in these pages.
“He puts to use what he puts us through. Suffering isn’t an obstacle to being used by God. It is an opportunity to be used like never before.”
Lusko is a preacher; it shows in his rhythms and alliterations, and his digressions. Forgive him and keep reading.
“When you live a life of faith, there are going to be questions that have no answers, because for there to be faith there has to be mystery.”
At first glance, this book is written for a narrow, specialized audience: Christians who have suffered a tragic loss. Actually, it is intended for those who have or will suffer a tragic loss: all of us. Lusko lost a kindergarten-aged child just before Christmas. Your loss may not be so dramatic as his, but you have or will suffer, too, and you will discover him to be a kindred soul.
“God made me stronger, so the pain is not always unbearable, but the weight hasn’t gotten any lighter.”
Non-Christian readers may struggle with the Biblical point of view and vocabulary, but many will find solace in these pages.
“He puts to use what he puts us through. Suffering isn’t an obstacle to being used by God. It is an opportunity to be used like never before.”
Lusko is a preacher; it shows in his rhythms and alliterations, and his digressions. Forgive him and keep reading.
“When you live a life of faith, there are going to be questions that have no answers, because for there to be faith there has to be mystery.”
July 6, 2015
Having known Levi for many years through his ministry, I was deeply shocked by the death of his daughter Lenya. I remember receiving the message from friends of her passing. As I watched the Lusko family from afar deal with the loss of their sweet daughter, I saw a strength that renewed my spirit.
This book is amazing, it is not just for those that are suffering the grief of the loss of a loved one, but for all those that have suffered some loss and are walking into darkness instead of into the light. It reads exactly as if you were to be sitting and listening to Levi in person. The passion he has for his ministry and to deliver the message of hope in storms.
I would higly recommend this book for anyone who is questioning their relationship, their doubts about heaven and needing the anchor during a storm, and to take heart that there is a loving God who wants an eternal relationship with you.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson publishing for this advance reader copy for an honest review.
This book is amazing, it is not just for those that are suffering the grief of the loss of a loved one, but for all those that have suffered some loss and are walking into darkness instead of into the light. It reads exactly as if you were to be sitting and listening to Levi in person. The passion he has for his ministry and to deliver the message of hope in storms.
I would higly recommend this book for anyone who is questioning their relationship, their doubts about heaven and needing the anchor during a storm, and to take heart that there is a loving God who wants an eternal relationship with you.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson publishing for this advance reader copy for an honest review.
November 13, 2019
"There is a disorienting endlessness to suffering that makes it easy to lose your bearings. It's like being lost in the woods of your own soul. Initially, just surviving each moment without hyperventilating is so all consuming that minutes tick by slower than years. But then one day you poke your head out from hibernation of hurting, and it can be shocking to find that actual time has passed." page 155
My Christmas encouragement to my self this year will be:
"Immanuel means "God with us". Jesus is with you, you are not alone. Whisper to Him "I know you're here" when you find yourself trembling" page 165
My Christmas encouragement to my self this year will be:
"Immanuel means "God with us". Jesus is with you, you are not alone. Whisper to Him "I know you're here" when you find yourself trembling" page 165
April 23, 2025
What a phenomenal book. There are so many takeaways that I cannot even begin to explain in this review. Levi Lusko does not just talk about grief but takes you through the reality of grief. Using his pain to bring others closer to God. Seeing through the eyes of a Lion. God turning off the darkness. These are just a few things that stood out.
Grieving or not grieving.. this book is worth the read.
Grieving or not grieving.. this book is worth the read.
April 8, 2018
Read in a day. So good. Levi is tremendously gifted at painting pictures with words - the beautiful and tragic. I recommend this to anyone who has or will experience loss and grief.
October 24, 2021
Do you know what I mean when I say God puts things before you right when you need them? Well this is one of those things. Levi Lusko has shared an incredibly personal story so that others may understand the meaning of suffering and what it looks like to forge ahead. This book was exactly what I needed at this time. Thank you Jesus. And thank you Levi. It is beautiful that God has given you such a talent and that you use it to honor Him. God bless you and your family.
April 5, 2017
I hate to write a somewhat negative review, but I feel I should because I wasn't entirely prepared for what this book was, and this is in no way a criticism of the loss of this family's child. I should also add that I am not a religious person and this book was recommended to me by someone who was going through a hard time who also knew I'm going through a hard time.
I can only begin to fathom what it might be like to go through something as painful as losing a child, mostly because of this book. He wrote about a heart wrenching experience beautifully, and for me personally, I actually wanted more of that story. I felt like 75% of the book was a church sermon and only 25% was about Lenya Lion. At times it felt really disconnected- like what he was "preaching" about didn't have much to do with this completely life altering event. I expected there would be religious references, but not nearly as many as there was. I ended up skimming through the last 40 pages for the story about Lenya because that's what I really wanted, not to be preached to, which I would go to church for if I wanted.
I really wanted to love this book and to feel transformed after reading it, but for me it was a miss.
I can only begin to fathom what it might be like to go through something as painful as losing a child, mostly because of this book. He wrote about a heart wrenching experience beautifully, and for me personally, I actually wanted more of that story. I felt like 75% of the book was a church sermon and only 25% was about Lenya Lion. At times it felt really disconnected- like what he was "preaching" about didn't have much to do with this completely life altering event. I expected there would be religious references, but not nearly as many as there was. I ended up skimming through the last 40 pages for the story about Lenya because that's what I really wanted, not to be preached to, which I would go to church for if I wanted.
I really wanted to love this book and to feel transformed after reading it, but for me it was a miss.
March 11, 2016
Practical wisdom in prepping yourself for the inevitable grief that everyone will encounter at some point in their lives. Pastor Levi takes biblical principles, and adds his own flare to what good grief could look like. This book is full of colorful object lessons and reference from movies and other books. Usually that turns me off-but in this instance I rather appreciated his comparisons. Best of all, I believe this book could be helpful to non-christians as well. He does such a great job breaking down grief that his story could touch the heart of people who wouldn't otherwise step into a church.
Disclaimer: I had no prior opinions of Pastor Levi or his ministry. Truthfully I had never heard of him before picking up this book...just in case that matters to you.
Disclaimer: I had no prior opinions of Pastor Levi or his ministry. Truthfully I had never heard of him before picking up this book...just in case that matters to you.
June 3, 2016
Pastor Levi Lusko and family saw their five-year old daughter die from an asthma attack. It's a tragic story, and he offers thoughts on dealing with the pain throughout the book that may be of help to those dealing with grief and loss.
However, I found the book - absent from the story - seemed to trumpet his accomplishments (speaking to crowds of 65,000; growing a megachurch in Montana, etc.) distracting. His writing style also seems to be targeting a 13 year-old. It was also distracting, though some of his illustrations and analogies are fun.
On the whole, it was big on dealing with his personal loss and small on being a lasting contribution.
However, I found the book - absent from the story - seemed to trumpet his accomplishments (speaking to crowds of 65,000; growing a megachurch in Montana, etc.) distracting. His writing style also seems to be targeting a 13 year-old. It was also distracting, though some of his illustrations and analogies are fun.
On the whole, it was big on dealing with his personal loss and small on being a lasting contribution.
July 20, 2017
So many stars! This was an amazing uplifting rewarding read for anyone who has ever gone through something challenging, no matter what the level. We studied it in the bible study group and it inspired so much good conversation. I listened to it as well on audible and Levi narrates it himself! His voice is some wonderful and soothing. He really understands how to deliver the messages of God to the people. I really wish I lived in Montana so I could go to his FreshLife church!
December 27, 2016
A powerful personal testimony diluted by very fundamentalist theology and an inflated obsession with the author's personal achievements. If you're looking for an evangelical study of theology in the face of loss you would be better served by Lewis' "A Grief Observed."
October 18, 2017
I love this book and I am so excited to have my friends read it! Levi Lusko writes about the importance of being prepared for pain in life- by taking the reader through his own experience. You will leave this book with a desire to walk deeper with God.
October 19, 2017
Incredible.
Even if you haven't lost a child or loved one, L. Lusko's perspective on grief & heavenly perspective can encourage anyone. While heartbreaking, this book is truly full of wisdom--I couldn't put it down.
Even if you haven't lost a child or loved one, L. Lusko's perspective on grief & heavenly perspective can encourage anyone. While heartbreaking, this book is truly full of wisdom--I couldn't put it down.
November 1, 2017
This will require multiple re-reads as there was amazing perspective as he shared their family's ongoing story in suffering and living the life God has called you to with the power that's readily available. I'll be going back to this one, in and out of seasons.
November 11, 2017
This book is amazing. It really will help you see life the way God wants us to see it. Would recommend to anyone who wants to live a life for Jesus whilst on earth.
February 23, 2019
Excellent, emotional walk through grief and the healing power of the resurrection. Cried twice. Smiled more.
December 20, 2018
I thought it was strange that I randomly picked this book up months ago from the fill a bag for $5 cart at my local library and it’s been gathering dust on my bookshelf for 6 months and I decided to pick it up today, the 20th December and a Thursday as well. Because 6yrs ago on Thursday the 20th of December 2012, a little 5 yr old Lenya passed away from an asthma attack.
This story is about Lenya’s family and how they continued to live after her death. This story is really very biblical and will be polarising to some. It almost made me enjoy it though but it’s message became really quite forceful, as all religious focussed books seem to become. Though for a few chapters I found myself thinking I could actually enjoy it, alas it became too much for me. Also, there wasn’t much of a storyline to satisfy me.
Before I get into my reasons why not, I have to say, the man’s devotion to love and kindness is admirable. Their families story is truly heartbreaking and the way they dealt with their grief is inspiring.
There were a few nuggets of pure gold though;
“When you don’t value what you have in your hands, you will always get from it far less than it’s worth.”
“If you try and help a butterfly out of its caccoon before it’s ready, it will never develop the strength in its wings to fly. They have to struggle out in order to come into their own. Flight only comes after the fight.”
But then
“The orders from your commanding officer are pretty clear; go into the world and preach the gospel to every creature. People who believe will be saved, but if they do not, they are not. .. you have a message that is the only hope of saving mankind from sin and death.”
Well firstly, not sure if you’ve been told, but the thing with being mortal, is that you kinda have to die at the end anyway.
And secondly, are you threatening me that you’re going to burn me alive at the end of time if I do not submit? Umm that makes you look like a bit of a ..um yeh. It’s the same premise as saying “if you do not denounce your Jewish faith, you will be murdered and everyone will live happily ever after - without you.” And we all know how that turned out. Don’t tell me I’m going to burn in hell and expect us to be mates or love what you’re going to say.
People sin everyday from all walks of life, so I don’t think you’re saving anyone.
I feel the bible needs a verse that says “you catch more flies with honey,” because ya’ll need to be reminded.
Or “just accept everyone as they are. Love them regardless and trust that they will make the best decisions for themselves.”
See, that’s the thing with religion, everyone has an opinion and either side is polarising to someone else. I really think I would have absolutely loved this book if it hadn’t been so hard on the preaching. But the guy is a preacher, so I walked straight into that one. You’ll either love it or hate it.
This story is about Lenya’s family and how they continued to live after her death. This story is really very biblical and will be polarising to some. It almost made me enjoy it though but it’s message became really quite forceful, as all religious focussed books seem to become. Though for a few chapters I found myself thinking I could actually enjoy it, alas it became too much for me. Also, there wasn’t much of a storyline to satisfy me.
Before I get into my reasons why not, I have to say, the man’s devotion to love and kindness is admirable. Their families story is truly heartbreaking and the way they dealt with their grief is inspiring.
There were a few nuggets of pure gold though;
“When you don’t value what you have in your hands, you will always get from it far less than it’s worth.”
“If you try and help a butterfly out of its caccoon before it’s ready, it will never develop the strength in its wings to fly. They have to struggle out in order to come into their own. Flight only comes after the fight.”
But then
“The orders from your commanding officer are pretty clear; go into the world and preach the gospel to every creature. People who believe will be saved, but if they do not, they are not. .. you have a message that is the only hope of saving mankind from sin and death.”
Well firstly, not sure if you’ve been told, but the thing with being mortal, is that you kinda have to die at the end anyway.
And secondly, are you threatening me that you’re going to burn me alive at the end of time if I do not submit? Umm that makes you look like a bit of a ..um yeh. It’s the same premise as saying “if you do not denounce your Jewish faith, you will be murdered and everyone will live happily ever after - without you.” And we all know how that turned out. Don’t tell me I’m going to burn in hell and expect us to be mates or love what you’re going to say.
People sin everyday from all walks of life, so I don’t think you’re saving anyone.
I feel the bible needs a verse that says “you catch more flies with honey,” because ya’ll need to be reminded.
Or “just accept everyone as they are. Love them regardless and trust that they will make the best decisions for themselves.”
See, that’s the thing with religion, everyone has an opinion and either side is polarising to someone else. I really think I would have absolutely loved this book if it hadn’t been so hard on the preaching. But the guy is a preacher, so I walked straight into that one. You’ll either love it or hate it.
June 11, 2019
This book was EXCEPTIONAL... the pages of this book are full of my tears. To hear of a young pastor lose his 5 year old daughter to learn not only did he NOT lose her but she is alive and well in heaven. If you believe in Jesus, you have the belief of Heaven and there is more to this world. But to read first hand his healing through the loss of his daughter and the revelations he received from God the Father not only to help him cope but to encourage every single person that reads the book and comes in contact with him. Pastor Levi Lusko, this book has CHANGED my life. It has truly opened my eyes to see everything with new lenses. And it has caused me to chase after the One that will provide all my needs despite the sufferings that are in store. Thank you for being vulnerable; for running towards the roar and confronting the pain that lead to this incredible testimony. I am forever changed.
April 16, 2020
Typically, I dont reach for Spiritual themed books. Most of them are either overhyped, overwritten, or dreadfully lacking in practical application.
This book is NONE of those things. In fact, I can pretty much guarantee that whatever stage of life you are in- there will be at least a handful of nuggets contained within that will pierce your soul, if not your thoughts.
The Luskos paint a poignant, vibrant, yet tender canvas of extreme grief while shining a flashlight on God's word- and His intention for your life.
Read it. You won't regret it. And if you dont like it, tell me. Not Levi. Because he's been through enough. Bless them!
Lenya- I'm sorry we never met this side of Heavan. But- I've got you on my meet and greet list that I'm taking with me through the Pearly Gates. Keep watching over your Dad. He still has a BIG job to do in raising your sisters and proclaiming the GoodxNews to those he comes in contact with.
This book is NONE of those things. In fact, I can pretty much guarantee that whatever stage of life you are in- there will be at least a handful of nuggets contained within that will pierce your soul, if not your thoughts.
The Luskos paint a poignant, vibrant, yet tender canvas of extreme grief while shining a flashlight on God's word- and His intention for your life.
Read it. You won't regret it. And if you dont like it, tell me. Not Levi. Because he's been through enough. Bless them!
Lenya- I'm sorry we never met this side of Heavan. But- I've got you on my meet and greet list that I'm taking with me through the Pearly Gates. Keep watching over your Dad. He still has a BIG job to do in raising your sisters and proclaiming the GoodxNews to those he comes in contact with.
May 22, 2025
Tossed into the world of grief and loss of a child. So naturally for me I am reading anything I can on this loss. Levi’s book was encouraging and gave some hope. I would like him to write another book being more out in this journey of life without his daughter. He did write this book a little over a year after his daughter died. I’m only four months into the fog of grief and I can imagine that I would’ve had more to share if I wrote one 10 years out or 20. I noticed he wrote a book on anxiety, and I wonder if the loss of his daughter was a direct correlation to that. And if he could expand more on the grief and loss of a child years in. But otherwise I did just book with a group of friends who are walking with me in my journey of grief, and it was a good choice. I have a daily remind myself of the truth of God to stay present on this earth for the rest of my children. Giving other peoples stories of child loss in my space somehow pushes me through.
October 29, 2020
I loved Lusko's book, "I Declare War," so much that I decided to read another book by the author right away. It broke my heart to read about how the Lusko family lost their 5 year old daughter, Lenya. The strength, love, and faith in God that they portrayed after their loss has been an inspiration to me. No matter what struggles or tragedy might happen in our lives, God will always be there for us. His message of running toward the lion roaring instead of away from it, really hit home. Highly recommend!
February 27, 2022
Beautiful. As I close the book I am thinking more about heaven and where I am headed than I ever have before. We are all going to die whether we are ready or not. What we do here matters. Grateful to be challenged to think about these things. The way Levi speaks of these topics as a dad who has had to deal with grief and death is eye opening and heartbreaking. The way God uses pain for His bigger purposes is so clear. At the end of this book I am grateful that death is not the end of the story — of Lenya’s or of ours.
August 28, 2022
Listened to the audiobook. Lusko does a fantastic job talking about grief through his personal story of losing his 5 year old daughter. I liked that he focused on the hope we have in Jesus and how death on Earth is not permanent for Believers. It was a good reminder to have an eternal/Kingdom mindset.
November 4, 2025
This book was gifted to me in late summer of 2020, a few weeks after the tragic death of a new-but-close friend. Lusko's book gave me eyes to see when all I wanted to do was squeeze them shut. Five years later, reading it again, it taught me new things...that's how you know it's a book worth keeping.
January 20, 2020
He teaches hope as the antidote to grief and that hope is anchored in heaven. Beautiful mix of memoir, theology of grief and suffering, pain, ministry, and heaven
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