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Your Dream. God's Plan.: Are You Longing for Something More?
Satisfaction can be yours, but it might look different than you thought.
Like a lot of young women, Tiffany Smiling had been assured that the path to fulfillment looked like the one she’d seen in her favorite She’d be swept away by a soul mate, live in a southern estate, and start a family.
But Tiffany’s story unfolded quite differently.
Weeks after serving on her high school’s homecoming court, while doctors operated to remove the brain tumor that was killing her, Tiffany suffered a paralyzing stroke. In the nick of a scalpel she lost her beauty and most of her physical ability. Returning to high school in a wheelchair, head half-shaved and face distorted, Tiffany vowed to be normal and live the dream.
And for a season, she did.
But just when the fairytale was within reach, God surprised Tiffany. Wooing her heart, God convinced her that there was something even better in store for her.
. . .And He has something better in store for you, too.
Read Your Dream. God's Plan. and see how the Lord wants to use the broken pieces of your life for His greater plan for you.
Smiling's story will help you see the ways God is writing your own amazing story—designed for His glory and your fulfillment.
Like a lot of young women, Tiffany Smiling had been assured that the path to fulfillment looked like the one she’d seen in her favorite She’d be swept away by a soul mate, live in a southern estate, and start a family.
But Tiffany’s story unfolded quite differently.
Weeks after serving on her high school’s homecoming court, while doctors operated to remove the brain tumor that was killing her, Tiffany suffered a paralyzing stroke. In the nick of a scalpel she lost her beauty and most of her physical ability. Returning to high school in a wheelchair, head half-shaved and face distorted, Tiffany vowed to be normal and live the dream.
And for a season, she did.
But just when the fairytale was within reach, God surprised Tiffany. Wooing her heart, God convinced her that there was something even better in store for her.
. . .And He has something better in store for you, too.
Read Your Dream. God's Plan. and see how the Lord wants to use the broken pieces of your life for His greater plan for you.
Smiling's story will help you see the ways God is writing your own amazing story—designed for His glory and your fulfillment.
255 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2017
373 people are currently reading
523 people want to read
About the author
Tiffany Smiling
2 books13 followersThough she was given just three months to live as a child, today Tiffany Smiling—writer, speaker, and entrepreneur—is changing the kingdom of God around the globe. She’s a cancer survivor, an injustice fighter and, above all else, she is a devoted follower of Christ.
She founded the With All My Heart Foundation, an organization dedicated to building the global church and caring for vulnerable children around the world. In 2016, she also founded With All Her Heart, an organization equipping woman to fulfill the calling that God has ahead of them.
In her first book, Your Dream. God's Plan., Tiffany invites her generation to trade in the broken dreams they have for their life in exchange for God's greater Plan.
She founded the With All My Heart Foundation, an organization dedicated to building the global church and caring for vulnerable children around the world. In 2016, she also founded With All Her Heart, an organization equipping woman to fulfill the calling that God has ahead of them.
In her first book, Your Dream. God's Plan., Tiffany invites her generation to trade in the broken dreams they have for their life in exchange for God's greater Plan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 2, 2017
Humbling and inspiring, Tiffany Smiling shares her journey with childhood cancer and how that helped her step out of her vision and see a bigger picture of how God could use her life, one she was told she is lucky to have. The book is about her bout with cancer, but more than that is an encouraging and inspiring book that encourages women (and men!) to listen to God’s voice, and that, even if we don’t necessarily want to hear it, that voice may just be the interruption to our comfortable worlds that we need to move beyond our dream to God’s plan.
March 23, 2023
This book is targeted for teens and young adults. I recommend ages 16-25.
I love Smilings passion for Jesus, it made this book an enjoyable read. The first part of the book was my favorite. I loved getting to hear this woman's story and how God used her. It was clearly written and did a wonderful job of both sharing her story and the truths she learned during that time. Later in the book, it felt like it rambled a bit without a clear purpose, going from random stories to random observations.
This was a solid read.
I love Smilings passion for Jesus, it made this book an enjoyable read. The first part of the book was my favorite. I loved getting to hear this woman's story and how God used her. It was clearly written and did a wonderful job of both sharing her story and the truths she learned during that time. Later in the book, it felt like it rambled a bit without a clear purpose, going from random stories to random observations.
This was a solid read.
October 17, 2017
Tiffany Smiling has a pretty captivating and amazing story to share with readers, though it’s one that comes with a few caveats. Retelling the story of her childhood at the front of her book, Your Dream. God’s Plan., Smiling — who wrote this title with the help of Margot Starbuck — tells of a little girl’s longing for a normal childhood, until brain cancer robbed her of that. At the age of 10, Smiling began having seizures which eventually lead to the discovery of cancer in her brain. Thinking that she had recovered after treatment, Smiling had a massive seizure at the age of 16 that forced very invasive surgery upon her. During the operation, the doctor nicked a part of her brain, and she woke up from a medically induced coma with the left side of her body paralyzed. It took years for her to recover.
But, despite that, she became an entrepreneur in college by opening a yogurt store. From there, she began to use her resources to help orphans in the developing world. So it’s a pretty amazing story, right? It is. Here are the caveats: the fundraising and visits to Haiti, Africa and Latin America all come with the price of wanting to spread the world of Christ. In other words, Smiling is a bit of a missionary. After all the wrongs that missionaries have done over the centuries, I wonder if what the world really needs now is another one. Can’t kindness and help come without any spiritual strings attached? Hmmmm.
Read the rest here: https://medium.com/@zachary_houle/a-r...
But, despite that, she became an entrepreneur in college by opening a yogurt store. From there, she began to use her resources to help orphans in the developing world. So it’s a pretty amazing story, right? It is. Here are the caveats: the fundraising and visits to Haiti, Africa and Latin America all come with the price of wanting to spread the world of Christ. In other words, Smiling is a bit of a missionary. After all the wrongs that missionaries have done over the centuries, I wonder if what the world really needs now is another one. Can’t kindness and help come without any spiritual strings attached? Hmmmm.
Read the rest here: https://medium.com/@zachary_houle/a-r...
October 31, 2018
The first part of the book felt like a “woe is me.”
Then she (graciously) acknowledged her wealth.
And the rest I felt like she was just pushing the mission of her foundation.
About 5% of the book is actually targeted inspiration.
Wouldn’t recommend unless you’re a white, unaware, Christian girl who lives a comfortable life and balks at the idea of missions/being uncomfortable for Jesus.
Then she (graciously) acknowledged her wealth.
And the rest I felt like she was just pushing the mission of her foundation.
About 5% of the book is actually targeted inspiration.
Wouldn’t recommend unless you’re a white, unaware, Christian girl who lives a comfortable life and balks at the idea of missions/being uncomfortable for Jesus.
February 10, 2024
Your Dream. God's Plan. was just not a book for me. Pretty much from the opening chapter, I struggled to get into it and kept trying; but, when I reached page 105, I just decided it wasn't worth it to continue reading when I wasn't enjoying it. There were just too many things that bugged me, personally...one thing was how much the MSG Bible was quoted. The writing style was also just not for me.
I wish I would have liked this more, but sadly it just wasn't for me.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I wish I would have liked this more, but sadly it just wasn't for me.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
September 22, 2020
While I admire Tiffany Smiling for the work she is doing with orphans around the world, I felt she made God into some kind of mythical character who grants wishes to those who pray good enough or long enough. Her story was truly amazing but I felt there was too much back and forth, not enough continuity. I had a very hard time following her story.
April 12, 2018
After facing a life threatening and life changing serious illness more than once, and fighting her way back to health, Tiffany decided to loosen her grip on her own dreams and instead, reached for and sought out God's plan for her life.
Tiffany soaked herself in the scriptures and surrounded herself with wise council and godly mentors. As she learned to not follow her own heart but instead, follow God's heart, amazing things began to happen. Things that would forever change her life and the lives of so many others. Tiffany experienced the value of kingdom work and encourages her readers to seek out God's best plans for them.
So much good advice and so many valuable lessons were shared in this book. We are encouraged to examine our motivations and our choices. We must be good listeners, allow our hearts to be softened and we must release our grips of control.
A well written book filled with inspiration and encouragement.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. I also purchased a Kindle version of this book.
Tiffany soaked herself in the scriptures and surrounded herself with wise council and godly mentors. As she learned to not follow her own heart but instead, follow God's heart, amazing things began to happen. Things that would forever change her life and the lives of so many others. Tiffany experienced the value of kingdom work and encourages her readers to seek out God's best plans for them.
So much good advice and so many valuable lessons were shared in this book. We are encouraged to examine our motivations and our choices. We must be good listeners, allow our hearts to be softened and we must release our grips of control.
A well written book filled with inspiration and encouragement.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. I also purchased a Kindle version of this book.
November 8, 2017
This book is part autobiography, part encouragement. Tiffany Smiling shares her story of surviving childhood cancer and how God brought her through early obstacles, then relates how He challenged her dreams for her future as too small and gave her new priorities.
Arguing that God wants His daughters to be world-changers, several times she recalls how God showed her that her dreams were "too small." There is nothing wrong with home, family, or career, but He wanted to give her more than just the typical American dream—more of Him, allowing her to do more for His Kingdom, if only she would say, "yes." She explains and addresses how we too often allow the enemy to distract us or our comforts to sway our obedience. We fear instead, seeing "the sacrifice instead of the reward."
This is a fascinating and challenging book that inspired me to hold my own dreams and blessings lightly, giving God the opportunity to lead me in the direction of His choosing. It is not easy, but Smiling never claims that it is; she simply promises that it will be worth it. I highly recommend this book for young teens on up as a perspective shifter. Really. Read. This. Book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Arguing that God wants His daughters to be world-changers, several times she recalls how God showed her that her dreams were "too small." There is nothing wrong with home, family, or career, but He wanted to give her more than just the typical American dream—more of Him, allowing her to do more for His Kingdom, if only she would say, "yes." She explains and addresses how we too often allow the enemy to distract us or our comforts to sway our obedience. We fear instead, seeing "the sacrifice instead of the reward."
This is a fascinating and challenging book that inspired me to hold my own dreams and blessings lightly, giving God the opportunity to lead me in the direction of His choosing. It is not easy, but Smiling never claims that it is; she simply promises that it will be worth it. I highly recommend this book for young teens on up as a perspective shifter. Really. Read. This. Book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
November 15, 2017
The author of this book has a great testimony! I loved reading about how God worked in her life and used her for his glory. It read like a memoir. The author clearly shared how God was working in her heart as she experienced life, challenges and highs. It makes you think about how you react to things in life and makes me want to respond in the right Godly way so I can experience the power of God in my life. Loved the summary of Main points chapter at the end. Nice easy read. Would have loved to have seen more scripture tie ins. I felt like there was a lot of great things but I was expecting more scripture. I felt like this made the book a 4 instead of a 5. I love to hear how God works in peoples lives but I want to see scriptural references when someone is trying to tell me how to live/think about life. I don’t want opinion I want bible. Otherwise great easy to read writing style and a powerful story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not obligated to write a positive review or any review at all for that matter.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not obligated to write a positive review or any review at all for that matter.
February 7, 2018
This is an awesome book. Often we think we want to do the work of the Lord but have no idea on how to go about it. Within these pages is an awesome testimony of how God truly can direct your path if you allow Him. The author takes us on a personal journey of her life and how God has directed it and orchestrated her path.
She takes you to a place with her as she examines her motives and decisions. She encourages each reader to look within in themselves. She challenges us to hear with ears made new. She demonstrates how once your hearing is clearer, your dreams will become bigger and focused.
I love her story and have purposed it in my heart to be more involved in hearing God and then doing more of his will.
I thank the author for sharing her good, bad and even sometimes her ugly. At one point, I was so moved by her story I began to cry. However, as I continued to read I knew I wanted all the treasure in these pages...
Fabulous read and I would recommend it to young women and even mature women to engage each other and themselves to grow and dream even the more...
She takes you to a place with her as she examines her motives and decisions. She encourages each reader to look within in themselves. She challenges us to hear with ears made new. She demonstrates how once your hearing is clearer, your dreams will become bigger and focused.
I love her story and have purposed it in my heart to be more involved in hearing God and then doing more of his will.
I thank the author for sharing her good, bad and even sometimes her ugly. At one point, I was so moved by her story I began to cry. However, as I continued to read I knew I wanted all the treasure in these pages...
Fabulous read and I would recommend it to young women and even mature women to engage each other and themselves to grow and dream even the more...
November 3, 2017
A BEAUTIFUL, CHALLENGING, AND UPLIFTING TRUE STORY
Your dream God’s Plan by Tiffany Smiling with Margot Starbuck is a beautiful personal story that will challenge and inspire you. Tiffany is a true overcomer who is living surrendered to the priority God has placed in her life. The story is about what a mighty God can do in a life in spite of the horrible circumstances of cancer at a young age. God’s not finished with her yet. She will inspire anyone who reads this, whatever age or circumstance, to look for “Something More.” I’m so glad I had the chance to read the book. I was challenged to look at my life to really live for His glory with His priorities.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Your dream God’s Plan by Tiffany Smiling with Margot Starbuck is a beautiful personal story that will challenge and inspire you. Tiffany is a true overcomer who is living surrendered to the priority God has placed in her life. The story is about what a mighty God can do in a life in spite of the horrible circumstances of cancer at a young age. God’s not finished with her yet. She will inspire anyone who reads this, whatever age or circumstance, to look for “Something More.” I’m so glad I had the chance to read the book. I was challenged to look at my life to really live for His glory with His priorities.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
November 12, 2017
When I started reading this book, I was drawn in by the shocking story of the author. She's gone through so much in her life and her story is amazing! This is geared for teens or young women to read. Many women have broken pieces in their life and Tiffany Smiling is included. Her dream was one thing and God's direction took her on a higher level.
This is a really good story and it's true!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
This is a really good story and it's true!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
October 28, 2017
Deeply moving and inspiring. The author has had many life struggles. God has a plan for her life and in living out that plan, the author is showing God's love and grace to others. Excellent book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. Also, I received a copy from Net Galley.
February 12, 2018
Inspirational
This book was wonderful and reignited my heart for God and His awesome plans for our life! We are called for a purpose. We need to believe and follow. She goes through her own journey and, wow, it was inspirational. Saying yes to God and what he can do with one life.
This book was wonderful and reignited my heart for God and His awesome plans for our life! We are called for a purpose. We need to believe and follow. She goes through her own journey and, wow, it was inspirational. Saying yes to God and what he can do with one life.
February 17, 2018
Love, love, love this book. It really spoke to my heart. The message is clear stop focusing on building our own comfortable kingdoms but be a part of growing Gods kingdom. God will use your 'yes' you only need to be willing and obedient. This book inspires and encourages. I'm ready to begin my adventure are you?
November 15, 2017
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway and was not quite sure what to expect. I ended up finishing the story in two sittings and was reminded that Gods plans are often light years away from the plans we have built in our hearts. This is a great testimony, I am so glad I won this book!
January 21, 2018
Tiffany Smiling’s book Your Dream, God’s Plan is going to sit in my heart for a long time. As a child she struggled through years of cancer treatments. As an adult she chooses to find and follow God’s plan for her life. This is a very inspiring book.
February 22, 2018
Very good book
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It helps me to realize that people from all walks of life, privilege and not privileged, have the same needs as anyone else. We are all God’s garden of beloved souls.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It helps me to realize that people from all walks of life, privilege and not privileged, have the same needs as anyone else. We are all God’s garden of beloved souls.
March 10, 2018
Inspirational
This book is so down to earth, It is heavenly. It inspires the reader to reach deep and consider options for life to make it matter and not just pursue things in life that are meaningless in eternity
This book is so down to earth, It is heavenly. It inspires the reader to reach deep and consider options for life to make it matter and not just pursue things in life that are meaningless in eternity
August 24, 2019
I thought this was going to be different. This book reads more like a biography than a book to help you find your way with God. There are some passages to help you but over all it's a biography.
November 2, 2017
"God is an interrupter of plans."
Your Dream. God's Plan: Are You Longing for Something More? by Tiffany Smiling with Margot Starbuck is mostly a memoir of sorts. Tiffany's story as she survived cancer at a very young age, but mind you, not without sacrifices. After a risky procedure, she was left partially paralyzed on one side of her body that took years to recover, and not fully. Understandably, her wish was to be normal again. Reading her story, I was reminded of another book, Uncommon by Carey Scott about how God uses our story to do the extraordinary. Well, He sure used Tiffany's story, and namely with interruptions in her life.
"You decide whether or not you will allow the divine interruption to change your life and the lives of others."
As Tiffany Smiling's story progress, she shared about her entrepreneurial spirit that led to God's calling for her to do mission work. Through her many travels, readers can sense her spirit and what this book is about: God's plan.
"God uses the willing and the obedient.."
I enjoyed her story for the most part, and the premise of Your Dream. God's Plan, as well as the story of those she encountered, mainly Yvrose. Inspiring for sure, and humbling. Yet, there's a certain tone throughout that felt unapologetically forceful. That might just be my personal feeling and not at all the intention of the authors. Despite that, I think all readers can expect the simple basis of trusting and be willing to accept God's plan when He comes knocking.
". . . on the very best days and the very worst days, God was still God, and God deserved our praise."
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
Your Dream. God's Plan: Are You Longing for Something More? by Tiffany Smiling with Margot Starbuck is mostly a memoir of sorts. Tiffany's story as she survived cancer at a very young age, but mind you, not without sacrifices. After a risky procedure, she was left partially paralyzed on one side of her body that took years to recover, and not fully. Understandably, her wish was to be normal again. Reading her story, I was reminded of another book, Uncommon by Carey Scott about how God uses our story to do the extraordinary. Well, He sure used Tiffany's story, and namely with interruptions in her life.
"You decide whether or not you will allow the divine interruption to change your life and the lives of others."
As Tiffany Smiling's story progress, she shared about her entrepreneurial spirit that led to God's calling for her to do mission work. Through her many travels, readers can sense her spirit and what this book is about: God's plan.
"God uses the willing and the obedient.."
I enjoyed her story for the most part, and the premise of Your Dream. God's Plan, as well as the story of those she encountered, mainly Yvrose. Inspiring for sure, and humbling. Yet, there's a certain tone throughout that felt unapologetically forceful. That might just be my personal feeling and not at all the intention of the authors. Despite that, I think all readers can expect the simple basis of trusting and be willing to accept God's plan when He comes knocking.
". . . on the very best days and the very worst days, God was still God, and God deserved our praise."
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
November 16, 2017
Your Dream. God's Plan. is an inspiring and challenging book by Tiffany Smiling, a young woman who chose to give up her dreams for her life and pursue what God has planned for her. Autobiographical in nature, Tiffany shares her childhood journey through cancer and its aftermath and then continues to share how God interrupted her plans for a comfortable life and enabled her to use her entrepreneurial talents to fulfill His dream of growing His kingdom. As she has stepped out in faith and followed His plan, she has been instrumental in building family homes for orphans, day care homes to enable parents to work knowing their children are safe, homes for girls who have been rescued from sex trafficking. Because of her obedience to God's call on her life, she has partnered with others to plant a church that serves a thousand people, and a seminary program that is training pastors to plant churches in their own villages. From Africa to Haiti and Guatemala to Costa Rica, the results of the author's change of priorities can be seen. Lives are changed. A whole village, which had never heard of Jesus, has heard and accepted Him and seen Him at work. As each story is related, whether it be her own or the experiences of people she has met, the author encourages the reader to recognize the need to offer one's heart to God and allow Him to infuse it with His life, His heart His passions and His plans. Throughout the book, readers are questioned and encouraged to think about what a surrender to God's plan and purpose for their lives might look like. There is also a section at the end of the book with discussion questions on each chapter to direct the reader to further introspection. Your Dream. God's Plan is a powerful book for those who desire to dream God's dreams and fulfill His plans for their lives.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
November 12, 2017
Most of us have an image, if not a dream, of how our lives will work out. Tiffany Smiling's dream after overcoming a brain tumor, surgeries and even paralysis, was a husband, family, a business and the proverbial white picket fence. It didn't seem like so much to ask. But what Tiffany didn't realize, what most of us don't realize, is that God's plan for our lives can look dramatically different than our own. Surrendering to God's design may take our lives in a whole different direction than anything we'd ever hoped and dreamed. Ms. Smiling's book about her journey, Your Dream. God's Plan,, shows us that God's plan is always richer, fuller, and more satisfying than ours. Furthermore, God is about the business of promoting His purposes. How thrilling to give your life to Him and find yourself used in ways you never could have imagined. Tiffany Smiling, a young single lady from Oklahoma, has changed the world, all because she opened her heart to what God would have her do.
Because of Tiffany Smiling's obedience to her Lord, the lives of countless orphans around the world have been changed for the better. She has raised money to build and sponsor orphanages in Uganda, Guatemala, Brazil, and Haiti, reaching into poverty stricken areas to give a better life to castoff orphans and introduce them to Jesus. What a change from lying in a hospital bed, shaven, sore and paralyzed, unsure if life would ever be normal again. No, it wouldn't. Tiffany's life has exceeded normal in every way, giving hope to souls that had none left.
Pick up a copy of Your Dream. God's Plan., and learn how Tiffany overcame her obstacles. God has a plan for your life too. Open your heart to Him and see where it leads you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Because of Tiffany Smiling's obedience to her Lord, the lives of countless orphans around the world have been changed for the better. She has raised money to build and sponsor orphanages in Uganda, Guatemala, Brazil, and Haiti, reaching into poverty stricken areas to give a better life to castoff orphans and introduce them to Jesus. What a change from lying in a hospital bed, shaven, sore and paralyzed, unsure if life would ever be normal again. No, it wouldn't. Tiffany's life has exceeded normal in every way, giving hope to souls that had none left.
Pick up a copy of Your Dream. God's Plan., and learn how Tiffany overcame her obstacles. God has a plan for your life too. Open your heart to Him and see where it leads you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
November 10, 2017
In 'Your Dream, God's Plan' Tiffany Smiling shares her story of being diagnosed with cancer when she was ten; undergoing surgeries, recovering from a stroke, and returning to her high school disfigured and in a wheelchair. Tiffany was determined to achieve normalcy but her journey was long and she eventually was challenged by God's voice telling her that He wanted her dreams to be more. She listened but not without reservation and this book chronicles her doubts, her reluctance and finally her acceptance of the plan that God had for her that eventually led to her work in the missions field. Tiffany relates that she could have chosen a relationship and a successful career but "I would not have known the deep joy and satisfaction and adventure I've experienced by obeying God's invitation to release my own plans to follow Him." And in telling her story she hopes that we readers will be encouraged to do the same. We must look beyond our comfort zone; listen to His voice and accept that in the end, it is His plan that is best. 'Your Dream, God's Plan' is very inspiring but it may not be an easy book to read because it does prompt us to look deep into our souls. In the last paragraphs Tiffany Smiling uses these words to further state her case. "There will come a day when the only thing that will matter is if you took Jesus seriously when he said He could use you to change the world." Our normal may not be what we thought it was and our dream may not be His plan!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
May 26, 2019
The title Your Dream. God's Plan.: Are You Longing for Something More? was intriguing. I'm always questioning whether my life and God's plan are in alignment. This book by Tiffany Smiling was a real eye-opener and a breath of fresh air. Reading Tiffany's story and the stories of others that Tiffany has met along the way has encouraged me. When Tiffany and others truly gave themselves to God and opened their lives fully to His plan for them, their lives and visions radically changed. I am encouraged that at almost 60, I can still surrender and do more for God. The challenge like most is in the letting go. If you are looking for further proof that God can work through you to change the world, then read this book. Your vision will be enlarged and perhaps challenged in a way you never imagined.
There are discussion questions at the back of the book that I would recommend reading after finishing each chapter. Because I read the ebook, I did not find them until I was already done. I wish I had done them along the way. I also liked the way that Tiffany ended each chapter concluding with the focus on the reader and how the story in the chapter applies to them. Each chapter ends with a challenge to the reader to view their life in light of seeing how God works through people who are all in for Him. The other thing I liked is that Tiffany is not pushy. She realizes that the plan God has for my life may be completely different than the ones she shares in her book. She only encourages the reader to take that first step if they are seeking something more and then tells at the end how to do that. Excellent book.
There are discussion questions at the back of the book that I would recommend reading after finishing each chapter. Because I read the ebook, I did not find them until I was already done. I wish I had done them along the way. I also liked the way that Tiffany ended each chapter concluding with the focus on the reader and how the story in the chapter applies to them. Each chapter ends with a challenge to the reader to view their life in light of seeing how God works through people who are all in for Him. The other thing I liked is that Tiffany is not pushy. She realizes that the plan God has for my life may be completely different than the ones she shares in her book. She only encourages the reader to take that first step if they are seeking something more and then tells at the end how to do that. Excellent book.
November 23, 2017
What were you like in fourth grade? How about when you were sixteen? Those are the ages at which Tiffany Smiling had major, life-changing medical events. She shares those stories in her book Your Dream. God’s Plan. Although these were pivotal points in Tiffany’s life, she was rescued by God to later do amazing things for His kingdom.
Your Dream. God’s Plan. is really focused on an audience of young women, but others can derive inspiration and guidance as well. She challenges young women to devote themselves to drawing close to God and then listening to the call He has for them. Her fascinating story relates miracles of how God used her and many amazing people she met to give out of their abundance and find that God always supplies enough.
Tiffany will draw you into worlds of poverty of body and spirit as she describes orphans, women rescued from sexual trafficking, extreme poverty, disease, and demons. But she also shares the many ways God answers prayers when the people of God make themselves available to be used by Him.
The book includes a section appropriate for study by groups or individuals for each chapter. There is a summarizing sentence followed by questions to help the reader personalize the content to her own life. The questions are followed by a “Dream Challenge” which focuses on how you can implement the concepts to find a closer relationship to God and thus discover His plan for your life. She finishes with a sentence or two “tip,” an additional quick take-away to help you make changes in your life to align your dream with God’s plan.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Barbour Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Your Dream. God’s Plan. is really focused on an audience of young women, but others can derive inspiration and guidance as well. She challenges young women to devote themselves to drawing close to God and then listening to the call He has for them. Her fascinating story relates miracles of how God used her and many amazing people she met to give out of their abundance and find that God always supplies enough.
Tiffany will draw you into worlds of poverty of body and spirit as she describes orphans, women rescued from sexual trafficking, extreme poverty, disease, and demons. But she also shares the many ways God answers prayers when the people of God make themselves available to be used by Him.
The book includes a section appropriate for study by groups or individuals for each chapter. There is a summarizing sentence followed by questions to help the reader personalize the content to her own life. The questions are followed by a “Dream Challenge” which focuses on how you can implement the concepts to find a closer relationship to God and thus discover His plan for your life. She finishes with a sentence or two “tip,” an additional quick take-away to help you make changes in your life to align your dream with God’s plan.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Barbour Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2017
Your Dream, God's Plan: Are you Longing for Something More? by Tiffany Smiling is a beautiful memoir. This book deeply spoke to me as Tiffany first experienced seizures before they determined what was wrong with her as a young teen. As she described each seizure, I relived my own journey and story of seizures. Tiffany didn't just experience seizures, but it was the beginning of her being diagnosed with cancer and then surving a procedure that left her paralyzed on one side of her body. Several years of recovery, therapy and she still did not fully recover, but have a new normal.
God had a plan for Tiffany and a bigger dream than she had dreamed for her self. She could clearly hear God telling her to help the orphans, which led to traveling and missions work. She knew that God would only be willing to use her if she was willing and obedient.
What I enjoyed most about this book was the fact that I felt that Tiffany was very transparent about her journey through the ups and downs. From dealing with cancer as a youth, to her hurts with a boyfriend in college and then listening to the call on her life from God. She has experienced so much and I think her book has the ability to impact so many lives because of her obedience. I give this book 4/5 stars. A favorable review was not required and all opinions expressed her are my own.
God had a plan for Tiffany and a bigger dream than she had dreamed for her self. She could clearly hear God telling her to help the orphans, which led to traveling and missions work. She knew that God would only be willing to use her if she was willing and obedient.
What I enjoyed most about this book was the fact that I felt that Tiffany was very transparent about her journey through the ups and downs. From dealing with cancer as a youth, to her hurts with a boyfriend in college and then listening to the call on her life from God. She has experienced so much and I think her book has the ability to impact so many lives because of her obedience. I give this book 4/5 stars. A favorable review was not required and all opinions expressed her are my own.
November 14, 2017
Tiffany Smiling is a remarkable young women who has been tested by the fires of life and has come out of the flames pursuing her hearts desire to find and fulfil the purpose and plans God has for her life.
Her story is one of trust,faith and total surrender of her dreams, that will challenge, encourage and inspire you to look at your life and your dreams and entrust them to God, where he will heal your brokenness and lead you back to your divine destiny in this life.
I believe Tiffany Smiling's life is a testament about picking up your cross and following Jesus as it is written in Matthew 16: 24,25 NIV
Then Jesus said to his disciples,"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and and follow me.
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it"
I highly recommend this book to every woman young or old alike, no matter how long you have been searching for the life you want to live and feeling you will never know it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review
Her story is one of trust,faith and total surrender of her dreams, that will challenge, encourage and inspire you to look at your life and your dreams and entrust them to God, where he will heal your brokenness and lead you back to your divine destiny in this life.
I believe Tiffany Smiling's life is a testament about picking up your cross and following Jesus as it is written in Matthew 16: 24,25 NIV
Then Jesus said to his disciples,"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and and follow me.
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it"
I highly recommend this book to every woman young or old alike, no matter how long you have been searching for the life you want to live and feeling you will never know it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review
February 3, 2019
Your Dream. God's Plan. Are You Longing for Something More? is an inspiring and encouraging book by Tiffany Smiling with Margot Starbuck. As a young girl, Tiffany found herself fighting a brain tumor. She came through that battle triumphant with God's help and went on to start her own business as a high schooler. Tiffany wanted to just be normal and have normal things like a family and a nice home and career she enjoyed. But God told her He wanted more for her life than just normal, so she stepped out in faith and found that life could be far more than normal, it could be extraordinary!
This book is mainly geared toward young women but others can also find inspiration and guidance for their lives by reading Tiffany's story. While she tells of her cancer battle, there is far more to her story than just that part of it. She tells of orphans and how she worked to give them a hope and a home, and encourages each one of us who read her book to also say yes to God. Our plans might not be what God has planned for our lives, but we have to accept what He is offering.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
This book is mainly geared toward young women but others can also find inspiration and guidance for their lives by reading Tiffany's story. While she tells of her cancer battle, there is far more to her story than just that part of it. She tells of orphans and how she worked to give them a hope and a home, and encourages each one of us who read her book to also say yes to God. Our plans might not be what God has planned for our lives, but we have to accept what He is offering.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
December 18, 2017
This is the uplifting, faith-based story of Tiffany Smiling who battles cancer and later, partial paralysis after her surgeon knicks a blood vessel in her brain during surgery. Her journey from a childhood of illness to a woman fighting for the life she desires is an encouraging one. Tiffany's humility and faith shine through every sentence.
I did pick up a slight underlying tone throughout the book that we (humans) have big dreams for our lives and that God tosses a monkey wrench into those plans to spoil them or interrupt them or to somehow force us to follow His own plan for our lives. Perhaps this was just my own interpretation, but this bothered me. Otherwise, it was an encouraging book and a lesson in humility.
*I received an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
I did pick up a slight underlying tone throughout the book that we (humans) have big dreams for our lives and that God tosses a monkey wrench into those plans to spoil them or interrupt them or to somehow force us to follow His own plan for our lives. Perhaps this was just my own interpretation, but this bothered me. Otherwise, it was an encouraging book and a lesson in humility.
*I received an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
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