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He Restores My Soul: Writings on Cross and Comfort
Suffering comes to everyone in this life, yet many are surprised to find it in the green pastures of the Good Shepherd. Disease and death invade this peaceful landscape, and hardship and heartache come even to "the sheep of His hand" (Psalm 95:7).
Why do pain and persecution flourish along the path of righteousness? How can sickness and sin reside beside the Lord's still waters? Utilizing the timeless, rich comfort permeating Psalm 23, author Katie Schuermann and a host of literary friends ponder such questions and many more in this book of empathy and encouragement for the cross-bearing Christian woman.
Addressing such topics as living the Christian faith in the public arena, carrying a child in the womb who is not expected to live, struggling against sexual temptation, caring for aging parents, regretting an abortion, living with mental illness and chronic diseases, longing for the gift of a spouse, raising children apart from one's own upbringing, mothering while working, and children leaving the faith, each chapter persistently points the reader to a firm trust in God's promises found in His Word and a resounding joy in God's mysterious work of conforming us "to the image of His Son" (Romans 8:29).
Contributing authors: Rebecca Mayes, Christina Roberts, Cheryl Swope, Cheryl Magness, Magdalena Schultz, Heidi D. Sias, Kristin Wassilak, Mollie Hemingway, Heather Smith, Julia Habrecht, Pamela Boehle-Silva, and D. Richard Stuckwisch.
Why do pain and persecution flourish along the path of righteousness? How can sickness and sin reside beside the Lord's still waters? Utilizing the timeless, rich comfort permeating Psalm 23, author Katie Schuermann and a host of literary friends ponder such questions and many more in this book of empathy and encouragement for the cross-bearing Christian woman.
Addressing such topics as living the Christian faith in the public arena, carrying a child in the womb who is not expected to live, struggling against sexual temptation, caring for aging parents, regretting an abortion, living with mental illness and chronic diseases, longing for the gift of a spouse, raising children apart from one's own upbringing, mothering while working, and children leaving the faith, each chapter persistently points the reader to a firm trust in God's promises found in His Word and a resounding joy in God's mysterious work of conforming us "to the image of His Son" (Romans 8:29).
Contributing authors: Rebecca Mayes, Christina Roberts, Cheryl Swope, Cheryl Magness, Magdalena Schultz, Heidi D. Sias, Kristin Wassilak, Mollie Hemingway, Heather Smith, Julia Habrecht, Pamela Boehle-Silva, and D. Richard Stuckwisch.
- GenresNonfiction
171 pages, Paperback
Published September 28, 2018
9 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Katie Schuermann
10 books196 followersKatie Schuermann is "a first-class storyteller” (Cameron MacKenzie, 2023) whose “earthy and joyful” (Mark A. Miller, 2014) voice is as refreshing and invigorating as the Midwestern sunshine in which she was raised. Writing in vignettes which so perfectly suit the charm of small-town life, Schuermann's stories call to mind the warmth and realism of Montgomery's Avonlea as well as the grounded sense of place and community of Berry’s Port William.
When not writing, Schuermann can be found singing, gardening, cooking, holding babies, or trying to climb the nearest tree.
When not writing, Schuermann can be found singing, gardening, cooking, holding babies, or trying to climb the nearest tree.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 21, 2018
A collection of poignant real life stories from exemplary Christian women living by faith under the Cross of Christ. Beautifully written, and even more beautiful in the consistent confession of Christ. I can hardly recommend this marvelous book strongly enough, as it is a strong comfort and encouragement to all those who struggle to persevere in the midst of sin and death, hardship and adversity. The authors have not only endured within their own circumstances, by the grace of God, but have provided a tremendous service to their readers by their example of courage and hope in the mercies of the Lord. In seeking the Lord where He may be found, in His Word and Sacrament, in the Liturgy of His Gospel within His Church, and in the care of their pastors, they have demonstrated the "grace to help in time of need" that the same Lord provides for all His lambs and sheep. Christ be praised for His mercy!
October 26, 2018
This was very good. (And I think past reviews prove that I am capable of not being in love with the confessional Lutheran book-of-the-moment.) I felt that some of the chapters were stronger than others, but the whole package was excellent, and I know that I will be turning to this book again and again. I bought a couple for gifts, and will be buying more.
November 25, 2018
Where do I begin? I purchased this book a few months ago and just finished today. While others read through it like speed demons, I chose to cherish it essay by essay, as one would who doesn’t want to get to the end of a really good read - you know, the book that stays with you for days on end even as you close the back cover.
I feel like I would love for all of these women to be my personal friends. I cherish my friends who encourage, love, and even sometimes admonish with the love of Christ that most in world around me can’t understand. Even though some of the chapters didn’t address my circumstance specifically, the scriptures and hymns used to solidify the essayist’s message spoke to me in a very real way.
During the course of reading this book, I knew I wanted to come back and read it again more in depth. I’m sure I will as my beloved has been diagnosed with prostate cancer in recent days. It’s awesome how God’s timing is perfect. As we finalized all of our end of life decisions legally, God knew this diagnosis was coming for us and that is one burden that could be lifted as we move forward. I also have this book as a resource to bring comfort in the days ahead.
If there is to be a second volume along this vein, I think essays on dealing with troublesome in-laws would be helpful. Another possible subject would be the grieving grandmother. Ask me how I know 😔
I feel like I would love for all of these women to be my personal friends. I cherish my friends who encourage, love, and even sometimes admonish with the love of Christ that most in world around me can’t understand. Even though some of the chapters didn’t address my circumstance specifically, the scriptures and hymns used to solidify the essayist’s message spoke to me in a very real way.
During the course of reading this book, I knew I wanted to come back and read it again more in depth. I’m sure I will as my beloved has been diagnosed with prostate cancer in recent days. It’s awesome how God’s timing is perfect. As we finalized all of our end of life decisions legally, God knew this diagnosis was coming for us and that is one burden that could be lifted as we move forward. I also have this book as a resource to bring comfort in the days ahead.
If there is to be a second volume along this vein, I think essays on dealing with troublesome in-laws would be helpful. Another possible subject would be the grieving grandmother. Ask me how I know 😔
July 15, 2023
Struggles and suffering are part of life. Infertility, cancer, dementia, death, sickness, jobs, our sinful flesh and the list goes on. In "He Restores my Soul" twelve authors share their struggles and suffering but it's not without hope. They share their tragedies but there is always triumph through Jesus. They suffer and are yet rejoicing in the cross of Christ. This book is filled with encouragement for the daily Christian life but also hope and wisdom for those extra rough seasons of life. Well worth your time and a great gift for those who may need a word of encouragement.
February 27, 2019
I’m convinced that one of the most powerful ways to love our women neighbors is to listen to their stories, and more specifically, their pains. Though I can point to no scientific study to back up my assertions, I believe a woman's pain has a unique need to be heard.
As seen, heard, and read in He Restores My Soul, each woman's story will be as different as the woman in the chapter beside her. Like other readers have already said, even though the details of the stories are different, somehow, as women, we relate to each other.
I read this book in a single sitting, staying up late into the evening to finish. Every woman's chapter was beautifully written, and each one left me with a deeper appreciation of the human condition, and a greater awareness of the struggles in life we know nothing about.
In the hymn The Church's One Foundation, there's a part that gives me chills and puts a lump in my throat whenever I try to sing it. There is something about the pronoun "she" throughout this hymn that, as a woman, makes it feel even more personal to me. As I ponder the stories in He Restores My Soul, connected so perfectly to Psalm 23, I am so profoundly grateful—thanks be to God!— for the commununion of saints, and for the dear Lord Jesus suffering all for our glory.
One holy Name she blesses,
Partakes one holy food,
And to one Hope she presses,
With every grace endued.
As seen, heard, and read in He Restores My Soul, each woman's story will be as different as the woman in the chapter beside her. Like other readers have already said, even though the details of the stories are different, somehow, as women, we relate to each other.
I read this book in a single sitting, staying up late into the evening to finish. Every woman's chapter was beautifully written, and each one left me with a deeper appreciation of the human condition, and a greater awareness of the struggles in life we know nothing about.
In the hymn The Church's One Foundation, there's a part that gives me chills and puts a lump in my throat whenever I try to sing it. There is something about the pronoun "she" throughout this hymn that, as a woman, makes it feel even more personal to me. As I ponder the stories in He Restores My Soul, connected so perfectly to Psalm 23, I am so profoundly grateful—thanks be to God!— for the commununion of saints, and for the dear Lord Jesus suffering all for our glory.
One holy Name she blesses,
Partakes one holy food,
And to one Hope she presses,
With every grace endued.
October 22, 2018
My soul is restored daily as I rely on the Word of God and His blessings which help me to cope with life struggles in this world of sin. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and appreciate the love it took to share these life stories with me. It is difficult to share one’s inner struggles even when we cling to Christ’s robes looking for crumbs of forgiveness and peace that only He can give. A very good book that I will be sharing with my friends, family, and church.
November 4, 2018
This book is a cup brimming over of Christ’s love and mercy. I actually felt my body physically relax and de-stress as I read. It was so beautiful to see the way these faithful women talk about their sufferings and then point us back to Christ, where the only true comfort lies.
This book reminded me that I am not alone. Others are going through the same struggles that each of us do every day. Or perhaps even greater trials! We are all suffering together as the body of Christ.
This book reminded me that I am not alone. Others are going through the same struggles that each of us do every day. Or perhaps even greater trials! We are all suffering together as the body of Christ.
February 26, 2020
I gobbled it up like a starving person at a buffet.
Everything about this book is beautiful. The cover is beautiful. The formatting, beautiful. The voices of the individual authors are beautiful. The hymnody is beautiful.
But the most arrestingly beautiful thing of all is the fullness of truth expressed throughout. The different authors individually have very different stories to tell, yet collectively it's all the same story - that of the Good Shepherd laying His life down for His sheep, feeding His sheep, guarding His sheep, protecting His sheep, seeking after His wandering sheep. The individual experiences are completely different from mine, and yet they are exactly my experience.
The authors happen to all be women, but it is by no means just for the ladies. Everybody suffers. We all like sheep have gone astray. There is so much good, useful stuff in here, no matter who you are. The examples of godly lamentation were very helpful to me personally, and I loved that each chapter ended with a hymn that was also a prayer.
I started at the beginning, read the whole thing straight through, and then discovered that there are study questions at the end. I think this set up was intentional, and also brilliant, because now I have a great reason to go through the whole thing again, slowly this time.
The authors of He Restores My Soul are traditional evangelical Lutherans; some matters of doctrine or practice may seem somewhat foreign to a reader who is not. But because of the universal comfort and wisdom, this book is definitely a worthwhile read no matter what flavor of Christianity you are, or even if you're not a Christian at all.
2/26/20 update: The second time through, in a group, was even more of a blessing.
Everything about this book is beautiful. The cover is beautiful. The formatting, beautiful. The voices of the individual authors are beautiful. The hymnody is beautiful.
But the most arrestingly beautiful thing of all is the fullness of truth expressed throughout. The different authors individually have very different stories to tell, yet collectively it's all the same story - that of the Good Shepherd laying His life down for His sheep, feeding His sheep, guarding His sheep, protecting His sheep, seeking after His wandering sheep. The individual experiences are completely different from mine, and yet they are exactly my experience.
The authors happen to all be women, but it is by no means just for the ladies. Everybody suffers. We all like sheep have gone astray. There is so much good, useful stuff in here, no matter who you are. The examples of godly lamentation were very helpful to me personally, and I loved that each chapter ended with a hymn that was also a prayer.
I started at the beginning, read the whole thing straight through, and then discovered that there are study questions at the end. I think this set up was intentional, and also brilliant, because now I have a great reason to go through the whole thing again, slowly this time.
The authors of He Restores My Soul are traditional evangelical Lutherans; some matters of doctrine or practice may seem somewhat foreign to a reader who is not. But because of the universal comfort and wisdom, this book is definitely a worthwhile read no matter what flavor of Christianity you are, or even if you're not a Christian at all.
2/26/20 update: The second time through, in a group, was even more of a blessing.
October 11, 2018
Rev. Dr. D. Richard Stuckwisch, in his pastoral response included at the end of the book, said best what I thought throughout each chapter: "The stories told in this book are poignant examples of the hurts and fears, the sins and griefs and sorrows that confront the children of Adam and Eve. They resonate because they are so painfully familiar, whether cutting close to our own homes and families or echoing the lives and losses of our friends."
With each chapter I thought "this one is my favorite - I can relate best to this sister." Then I would turn to the next chapter and think the same thing. Some chapters took much more emotional stamina and perseverance to get through - much like real life when there are rough days that take a toll. But every chapter pointed clearly to the Cross of Christ and His unfailing love and mercy. No matter how rough the days are, we do not face them alone.
I am grateful for all my Sisters in Christ who unselfishly poured out their hearts to us. They pointed us to the Cross and gave us a glimpse of how to help one another.
With each chapter I thought "this one is my favorite - I can relate best to this sister." Then I would turn to the next chapter and think the same thing. Some chapters took much more emotional stamina and perseverance to get through - much like real life when there are rough days that take a toll. But every chapter pointed clearly to the Cross of Christ and His unfailing love and mercy. No matter how rough the days are, we do not face them alone.
I am grateful for all my Sisters in Christ who unselfishly poured out their hearts to us. They pointed us to the Cross and gave us a glimpse of how to help one another.
April 16, 2019
I loved reading and being encouraged by these sisters in Christ's stories. They have given us a wonderful witness of how the Christian life is one of suffering, struggle, and clinging to the cross of Jesus Christ. The only one I didn't like, and that didn't resonate with me, was the chapter that was clearly not a personal story but a fictionalized one. When the women shared from the heart of their own lives this book shone.
October 7, 2018
He Restores My Soul is the book equivalent of sitting down for a long heartfelt afternoon chat with 12 wonderful Christian friends over an endless pot of tea. Each chapter provides a different voice and perspective, yet the same consistent message: Christ is with us in our sufferings, and we do not bear our crosses alone. Thanks be to God for his grace and mercy! I especially appreciate the way each chapter fits so seamlessly into the phrases of Psalm 23. This is a well-placed invitation to savor the riches of the psalm and how it consoles us in our suffering and provides endless comfort, no matter how many times we hear or recite it.
There are certain chapters that I personally identify with, but each chapter provides insight applicable to my life whether I bear that specific cross or not. This book is an excellent way to open conversations and foster connections between sisters in Christ, encouraging and equipping them to serve their neighbors.
What a profound treasure we have been given by these twelve Lutheran sisters who so compassionately return us to our Shepherd and His promises in all our trials and temptations.
There are certain chapters that I personally identify with, but each chapter provides insight applicable to my life whether I bear that specific cross or not. This book is an excellent way to open conversations and foster connections between sisters in Christ, encouraging and equipping them to serve their neighbors.
What a profound treasure we have been given by these twelve Lutheran sisters who so compassionately return us to our Shepherd and His promises in all our trials and temptations.
October 5, 2018
This book is by far my best read of 2018. I’ve literally devoured every book written by the editor, so I was hoping this book she co-authored would be no different. It was the most comforting, most practical, most authentic, and most applicable book I’ve ever read.
April 15, 2024
Incredible collection. Definitely one I’ll need to re-read time and time again.
December 17, 2018
Well, Katie Schuermann has done it again, folks! This book is well worth your time and money. Mrs. Schuermann has compiled a set of essays about life as a Christian, in particular Christian women; in particular, Christian women who face problems and sufferings from just about every angle you can imagine; which means it is relevant to us all, even if you are not a woman. Because let’s be honest, if you are not a woman, you are perhaps married to one, you were definitely born from one, and you may find yourself having to work, live or play with one.
All kidding aside, though, this set of stories is full of subjects concerning depression, same sex attraction, past regrets, ghosts of your past, child rearing, loss, grief and more. Katie has collaborated with other authors from the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and put together this remarkable book full of comfort in the midst of suffering. The point is always emphasized that Christ restores us daily from our sins. The book is very aptly titled. Some of the authors featured in addition to Katie include: Mollie Hemingway, Cheryl Swope, Christina Roberts, and Pamela Boehle-Silva. The last chapter is a Pastoral Response written by Rev. Dr. D. Richard Stuckwisch.
It is good to “hear” other Christian’s stories especially when they share their doubts, frustrations and anxieties, despite knowing that Christ has forgiven them and especially because they can articulate so well what that means for us this side of eternal glory. Each chapter includes many references to scripture and features a hymn verse or two. There are also discussion questions for each chapter, so it can be used as a Bible study or devotional. This book is a treasure and any who read it will be uplifted to know that we are not alone.
Thanks to Mrs. Schuermann and all the other excellent authors for your time and talents in putting together a great resource of comfort for us all.
All kidding aside, though, this set of stories is full of subjects concerning depression, same sex attraction, past regrets, ghosts of your past, child rearing, loss, grief and more. Katie has collaborated with other authors from the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and put together this remarkable book full of comfort in the midst of suffering. The point is always emphasized that Christ restores us daily from our sins. The book is very aptly titled. Some of the authors featured in addition to Katie include: Mollie Hemingway, Cheryl Swope, Christina Roberts, and Pamela Boehle-Silva. The last chapter is a Pastoral Response written by Rev. Dr. D. Richard Stuckwisch.
It is good to “hear” other Christian’s stories especially when they share their doubts, frustrations and anxieties, despite knowing that Christ has forgiven them and especially because they can articulate so well what that means for us this side of eternal glory. Each chapter includes many references to scripture and features a hymn verse or two. There are also discussion questions for each chapter, so it can be used as a Bible study or devotional. This book is a treasure and any who read it will be uplifted to know that we are not alone.
Thanks to Mrs. Schuermann and all the other excellent authors for your time and talents in putting together a great resource of comfort for us all.
November 30, 2018
I loved this book and took my time reading it rather than devouring it quickly, because I did feel restored each time I read it.
This book is not just a collection of heartwarming stories, but it contains stories of Christian women sharing both their struggles and how they made it through them by relying on the Lord. They show that real Christians do have real struggles, and how we have to fight against not only the unbelieving world, or even well-meaning believers who say exactly the wrong thing, but also against our own thoughts which can drag us away from Christ and the Church. Pastor Stuckwisch wrote a wonderful response at the end of the book reminding us that God sent his Son Jesus to save all His sheep because He truly cares for each and every one of us. He also reminds us to continually return to the Lord in His House, His Word, and His Sacraments.
This book is meant for anyone who has suffered a loss, heartache, temptation, frustration, guilt, illness for themselves or a loved one, or is waiting for God’s time, in other words: most living breathing people. All of the stories touched my heart, even if I didn’t relate to their affliction, and each one gave examples of how Christians in all sorts of situations turn to God as their help and strength. I am so grateful to these women who were brave enough to share their stories and faith so my soul could be restored.
This book is not just a collection of heartwarming stories, but it contains stories of Christian women sharing both their struggles and how they made it through them by relying on the Lord. They show that real Christians do have real struggles, and how we have to fight against not only the unbelieving world, or even well-meaning believers who say exactly the wrong thing, but also against our own thoughts which can drag us away from Christ and the Church. Pastor Stuckwisch wrote a wonderful response at the end of the book reminding us that God sent his Son Jesus to save all His sheep because He truly cares for each and every one of us. He also reminds us to continually return to the Lord in His House, His Word, and His Sacraments.
This book is meant for anyone who has suffered a loss, heartache, temptation, frustration, guilt, illness for themselves or a loved one, or is waiting for God’s time, in other words: most living breathing people. All of the stories touched my heart, even if I didn’t relate to their affliction, and each one gave examples of how Christians in all sorts of situations turn to God as their help and strength. I am so grateful to these women who were brave enough to share their stories and faith so my soul could be restored.
October 13, 2018
Thank you to each of these beautiful women for sharing such painfully raw truths about their own burdens and struggles. You’ve contributed such an important piece of literature to a world starving for answers to questions like “Why me?”, “What now?”, “Where do I go?” and the like.
I loved the scriptural insights and REAL comfort found in the various chapters, and especially the poignant hymn texts shared. We are taught to return to the Lord, who is gracious and merciful, over and over and over again, and we are never once promised that life will be easy or that our problems will be magically fixed. We are simply taught that the Lord is faithful and we will endure until He brings us home to dwell in everlasting peace with Him. It’s a message we all need every day.
Thank you, dear sisters, for putting it so eloquently into print. This is a book I will reread and share for the rest of my earthly days!!
I loved the scriptural insights and REAL comfort found in the various chapters, and especially the poignant hymn texts shared. We are taught to return to the Lord, who is gracious and merciful, over and over and over again, and we are never once promised that life will be easy or that our problems will be magically fixed. We are simply taught that the Lord is faithful and we will endure until He brings us home to dwell in everlasting peace with Him. It’s a message we all need every day.
Thank you, dear sisters, for putting it so eloquently into print. This is a book I will reread and share for the rest of my earthly days!!
November 3, 2018
From start to finish, I loved this book. Though I wasn't able to personally relate to the unique struggles of each author, I found each chapter comforting for the struggles I face as each chapter was rich with the promises God offers to His people in Word and Sacrament. In addition to this, it also helped me to develop empathy for the suffering of others. It got me outside the echo chamber of my own mind and gave me a glimpse into the experiences of others. As I was reading the book, I found it easier to relate myself to those around me. I could think more clearly about the kinds of suffering they faced and how I, as a sister in Christ, could help to point them to Christ and His promises in their difficulties. Overall, it was an excellent book, one I will probably return to throughout life as I meet new people and face the different circumstances of ever-changing life as a child of God.
February 1, 2019
This book is a wonderful gift and tool for addressing our struggles in a Scriptural way. Each chapter is written by a different woman and addresses a particular situation, which is comforting for those who also deal with these particular problems, but even if the reader doesn't experience the same challenges, the truth of God's word (and how we are reminded of those words in hymns!) still applies to each individual's unique situations.
October 28, 2019
This book was given to my wife and me upon our son’s cancer diagnosis. It was a treasure to walk with the ladies who authored the chapters and remember what God’s Word has to say to real people during times of real suffering. This work goes right to the source of all comfort, Christ crucified and resurrected. As a pastor I appreciate the care taken to cite the numerous Bible passages from which these women drew their words—which shaped their thoughts as they set out to communicate their suffering, hope and peace in service to neighbor.
December 28, 2018
This is a wonderful, comforting book! I think it's geared mostly toward young to middle aged women, but has comfort available for any Christian in any circumstance. I read it through quickly this time, but I'm sure it'll be one I'll return to, to linger over again and again.
December 22, 2018
Great collection of stories from faithful women trusting in their Savior.
January 2, 2019
This book is truly special. I could identify with the contributors, and the book does indeed provide comfort, as well as reminds us of the hope we have in Jesus. It is one of those books that I want to buy multiple copies of, place them in the hands of family and friends, and say, “ You HAVE to read this book!”
December 6, 2020
“God uses grief, even doubt, to turn our lives upside down so that we can recognize His love and mercy to us revealed in the Man of Sorrows, Jesus Christ the crucified. Jesus takes on our brokenness, bleeding our wounds and shedding our tears, all the way to the cross. This is the great paradox: Christ’s suffering and death brings life to us. His suffering redeems us from our sinful brokenness, thereby restoring us fully to Himself. Instead of explaining suffering, God shares it with us. And by His wounds, truly, we are healed.”
A beautiful book that redirects grief to the only source of true, lasting comfort.
A beautiful book that redirects grief to the only source of true, lasting comfort.
June 17, 2025
Any book with Katie Schuermann's name on it promises to fill you with the life-changing Word of God. Poignant, thoughtful, and edifying are accurate descriptors of each one I've picked up. As such, I reached for this one, knowing it would contain truths that would change me and deepen the faith we share.
Expectations were met and exceeded.
It started with the beautiful cover art -- gentle, peaceful, calling you close. I don't know that I could have told you what the Twenty-Third Psalm looks like, but I can now. Not just in the cover but also in the content. Each chapter left me with windows into the struggles and heartaches of others that will allow me to show compassion in situations with which I have no personal experience to draw on, as much as those who reveal personal vulnerabilities with which I am deeply, achingly familiar. And in each resonated how the Good Shepherd comforts with rod and staff, keeps close during navigation of the valley of shadows, spreads a rich table by which to serve and sustain, and chases relentlessly all the days of our broken lives.
"I Am Herod" made me weep at its raw sorrow. "All We Like Sheep" resonated with notes I know intimately. "I Remember You" made my soul ache, knowing far too well how hard it is to watch dementia steal away a loved one. I have been the woman in "O Bride of Christ," wondering when God would answer my prayers. "Spare the Rod" convicted me of the times I, too, have begged God to stop because His will felt too much for me to bear.
Filled with conviction and comfort, repentance met with Holy Absolution, cries of anguish and the relief of surrender, no matter what crosses have been laid upon your shoulders in this veil of tears, reading these personal stories remind us that we are not alone. There are both fellow children of the Almighty who trudge these barren paths with us, and a Savior who is ever-present with us, reminding us eternally that He bore this too and will one day crown us with Life in a new creation where these tears will be wiped away with a final tender touch.
This book is a comfort to the broken, a guide for compassion, a lesson in clinging to faith through tribulation, and assurance that when we cannot cling another moment longer, He holds us fast. What a gift.
Expectations were met and exceeded.
It started with the beautiful cover art -- gentle, peaceful, calling you close. I don't know that I could have told you what the Twenty-Third Psalm looks like, but I can now. Not just in the cover but also in the content. Each chapter left me with windows into the struggles and heartaches of others that will allow me to show compassion in situations with which I have no personal experience to draw on, as much as those who reveal personal vulnerabilities with which I am deeply, achingly familiar. And in each resonated how the Good Shepherd comforts with rod and staff, keeps close during navigation of the valley of shadows, spreads a rich table by which to serve and sustain, and chases relentlessly all the days of our broken lives.
"I Am Herod" made me weep at its raw sorrow. "All We Like Sheep" resonated with notes I know intimately. "I Remember You" made my soul ache, knowing far too well how hard it is to watch dementia steal away a loved one. I have been the woman in "O Bride of Christ," wondering when God would answer my prayers. "Spare the Rod" convicted me of the times I, too, have begged God to stop because His will felt too much for me to bear.
Filled with conviction and comfort, repentance met with Holy Absolution, cries of anguish and the relief of surrender, no matter what crosses have been laid upon your shoulders in this veil of tears, reading these personal stories remind us that we are not alone. There are both fellow children of the Almighty who trudge these barren paths with us, and a Savior who is ever-present with us, reminding us eternally that He bore this too and will one day crown us with Life in a new creation where these tears will be wiped away with a final tender touch.
This book is a comfort to the broken, a guide for compassion, a lesson in clinging to faith through tribulation, and assurance that when we cannot cling another moment longer, He holds us fast. What a gift.
November 1, 2018
This book will only be appreciated by those who, like the contributors, have ever gone through or will experience any life difficulty in which hope, comfort, encouragement, and strength are needed. Though I have not yet personally experienced many of the specific situations in which the authors found themselves, their stories and their struggles resonated deeply with me. This is particularly true because of the honesty and vulnerability with which each of them writes. And ultimately each found succor in the green pastures and quiet waters to which their Good Shepherd led them in the midst of their circumstances. I especially appreciated that each author graphically drew my attention over and over to this Good Shepherd through the liberal sprinklings of comforting Scripture and beautiful hymns.
This is not a sappy, sugar-coated look at the Christian life. The accounts are courageous, raw, and real, and because of that the book will have a deep impact on the reader's heart and mind.
This is not a sappy, sugar-coated look at the Christian life. The accounts are courageous, raw, and real, and because of that the book will have a deep impact on the reader's heart and mind.
December 15, 2018
This book is a wonderful encouragement. The 12 authors give you comfort and encouragement in Christ when facing difficult issues. I recommend reading this book slowly as it is very emotional, especially when the topics hit home.
December 11, 2019
Such a comforting presentation of the Gospel in different real-life situations.
June 7, 2019
What a splendid book of encouragement and comfort under the cross. All the contributors have done an excellent job in shining the light of Christ into the various struggles and issues of life. Wow.
March 9, 2023
A beautiful collection of writings by women living out their lives in Christian hope and faith. I was eager to pick this one up and read a chapter every morning.
October 9, 2018
I could not put this book down. Yet, I had to put the book down. The stories of these 12 women's lives were so engaging, profound, and thought-provoking that I had to set book down after each chapter to let it all soak in.
"He Restores My Soul," edited by Katie Schuermann, is a collection of 14 different snippets of sufferings from the eyes of Psalm 23. Many times when we hear Psalm 23 we think happy thoughts of the Good shepherd who comforts and protects us, his happy little sheep. However, we have crosses to bear in this life and our Good Shepherd, Jesus, isn't just the comforter of us, his sheep. He is the protector, the one who wields his staff, even on us, to protect us and keep us in his fold. These sufferings in life could tear us apart, and they would without the Good Shepherd. Instead our uncomfortable sufferings drive us to the one place where we can receive comfort, the arms of the Good Shepherd. Those arms in the form of Word and Sacrament are what wraps around us, protects us, forgives us, renews us, and strengthens our faith so that we can face the trials and tribulations ahead.
I recommend this book to anyone that has seen suffering in their life...oh hey, that's everyone! Let it (or rather the Shepherd it points us to) be a comfort in the midst of our crosses.
"He Restores My Soul," edited by Katie Schuermann, is a collection of 14 different snippets of sufferings from the eyes of Psalm 23. Many times when we hear Psalm 23 we think happy thoughts of the Good shepherd who comforts and protects us, his happy little sheep. However, we have crosses to bear in this life and our Good Shepherd, Jesus, isn't just the comforter of us, his sheep. He is the protector, the one who wields his staff, even on us, to protect us and keep us in his fold. These sufferings in life could tear us apart, and they would without the Good Shepherd. Instead our uncomfortable sufferings drive us to the one place where we can receive comfort, the arms of the Good Shepherd. Those arms in the form of Word and Sacrament are what wraps around us, protects us, forgives us, renews us, and strengthens our faith so that we can face the trials and tribulations ahead.
I recommend this book to anyone that has seen suffering in their life...oh hey, that's everyone! Let it (or rather the Shepherd it points us to) be a comfort in the midst of our crosses.
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