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What Does Your Soul Love?: Eight Questions That Reveal God's Work in You
What do you really want? What is your soul clinging to? What is getting in your way? In these pages Gem and Alan Fadling outline eight key questions that offer deep insight into how we experience soul change. These questions open the door to spiritual transformation. They help us unpack where we are stuck, where we are in pain, where we are afraid, and much more. They also reveal the path to joy and to the heart of God. Spiritual inventories and exercises will guide you, along with stories from Gem and Alan's lives and their ministry together through Unhurried Living. "Embarking on a journey of transformation involves remaining awake to a deeper level of reality that is always present," write the Fadlings. "Remaining on this journey requires a simpler, God focus. These eight questions about transformation can help us cultivate this kind of deeper awareness and soul focus. These paths help keep us on the journey of transformation. They keep us in the presence of the transforming One." This practical, personal book offers a path to understanding what God wants to reveal in your soul.
220 pages, Hardcover
Published September 17, 2019
62 people are currently reading
925 people want to read
About the author
Gem Fadling
4 books14 followersGem Fadling is a founding partner of Unhurried Living, Inc., a non-profit that resources and trains Christian leaders to rest deeper, live fuller, and lead better. A trained spiritual director, retreat speaker, and podcaster, she enjoys serving as a guide, with the intention of helping people encounter God in their very real lives. Gem is the author of What Does Your Soul Love? Eight Questions That Reveal God's Work in You (IVP 2019).
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September 16, 2019
“Paying attention to our soul helps us answer and discuss such questions as “In what ways is God meeting me in my “What can I do to better see God, hear God, and walk with God?” real everyday life?” and “What can I do to better see God, hear God, and walk with God?”” - From What Does Your Soul Love? By Gem and Alan Fadling
From the opening page, What Does Your Soul Love by Gem and Alan Fadling is more of a practice than a book, more meditation than reading. This is one you will want to muse over, journal and spend time soaking in, I loved it! Making time in the day to chew over life questions is so important and drawing closer to God is so restorative. Through eight key questions, Gem and Alan guide the reader on a journey to clarify one’s role in God’s kingdom, one’s value and how one can glorify God further.
“The eight questions posed in this book can help us cultivate this kind of deeper awareness and soul focus. They help keep us on the journey of transformation. They keep us in the presence of the transforming One.” - From What Does Your Soul Love? By Gem and Alan Fadling
Without complex instructions, Gem and Allan outline exercises and habits which can take day-to-day activities to new depths. They explain this two-stream living as follows “On one level we may be thinking, discussing, seeing, calculating, meeting all the demands of external affairs. But deep within, behind the scenes, at a profounder level, we may also be in prayer and adoration, song and worship and a gentle receptiveness to divine breathings…”. Awakening the reader to God’s presence, God’s guidance and identifying ways to get in better alignment with God’s will, they show the reader how to seek and find deeper joy in life.
They don’t ignore the difficulties that change brings and they share stories of their own experiences to bring their guidance to life and inspire the reader by showing it is possible to transform.
“We’ve noticed, however, that sometimes we are tempted to avoid necessary change because the pain of what’s unwell seems easier to endure that the unknown pain we imagine in the path of change. We must learn to cultivate awareness around our resistance to change as a surface reaction to a deeper and better invitation.” - From What Does Your Soul Love? By Gem and Alan Fadling
I thoroughly enjoyed it, I was challenged, inspired and drawn closer to God. It’s a book I will return to several times to get more out of it as I implement it piece by piece. I highly recommend it, it’s a five out of five on the en-JOY-ment scale.
From the opening page, What Does Your Soul Love by Gem and Alan Fadling is more of a practice than a book, more meditation than reading. This is one you will want to muse over, journal and spend time soaking in, I loved it! Making time in the day to chew over life questions is so important and drawing closer to God is so restorative. Through eight key questions, Gem and Alan guide the reader on a journey to clarify one’s role in God’s kingdom, one’s value and how one can glorify God further.
“The eight questions posed in this book can help us cultivate this kind of deeper awareness and soul focus. They help keep us on the journey of transformation. They keep us in the presence of the transforming One.” - From What Does Your Soul Love? By Gem and Alan Fadling
Without complex instructions, Gem and Allan outline exercises and habits which can take day-to-day activities to new depths. They explain this two-stream living as follows “On one level we may be thinking, discussing, seeing, calculating, meeting all the demands of external affairs. But deep within, behind the scenes, at a profounder level, we may also be in prayer and adoration, song and worship and a gentle receptiveness to divine breathings…”. Awakening the reader to God’s presence, God’s guidance and identifying ways to get in better alignment with God’s will, they show the reader how to seek and find deeper joy in life.
They don’t ignore the difficulties that change brings and they share stories of their own experiences to bring their guidance to life and inspire the reader by showing it is possible to transform.
“We’ve noticed, however, that sometimes we are tempted to avoid necessary change because the pain of what’s unwell seems easier to endure that the unknown pain we imagine in the path of change. We must learn to cultivate awareness around our resistance to change as a surface reaction to a deeper and better invitation.” - From What Does Your Soul Love? By Gem and Alan Fadling
I thoroughly enjoyed it, I was challenged, inspired and drawn closer to God. It’s a book I will return to several times to get more out of it as I implement it piece by piece. I highly recommend it, it’s a five out of five on the en-JOY-ment scale.
July 28, 2019
Answers to the Eight questions that reveal God's work in you.
1. We grow in grace.
2.Desire...transformation.
3. Desires of the spirit...love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness,gentleness and self-control.
4. Vulnerability...Instead of hiding form God we need to be open.
5. Transformation..begins within ourselves.
6. Pain..."it is what it is" Leaning into God, who is present with us.
7. Fear..God can squelch our fears, giving us peace of mind.
8. Control...letting go is the greatest key to peace of mind.
Making a change for the better we can enjoy a lie of peace and well being.
I won this free book through Goodreads first reads.
1. We grow in grace.
2.Desire...transformation.
3. Desires of the spirit...love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness,gentleness and self-control.
4. Vulnerability...Instead of hiding form God we need to be open.
5. Transformation..begins within ourselves.
6. Pain..."it is what it is" Leaning into God, who is present with us.
7. Fear..God can squelch our fears, giving us peace of mind.
8. Control...letting go is the greatest key to peace of mind.
Making a change for the better we can enjoy a lie of peace and well being.
I won this free book through Goodreads first reads.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2019
In order to grow, one needs to change. In order to change for the better, one needs to be willing to be formed. In order to be formed, one needs to be transformed from the inside out. If we want to grow, we need to be changed from the inside out. Often, we need to be challenged into making a decision to be changed. It does not come easy, as Gem shared her struggle with the question whether she would be willing to give up her husband. The the question represents the dark room, the answer provides the light waiting to illuminate the room. Using Thomas Kelly's reflection as a guide, this book essentially helps us connect our mental levels with a more profound inner level through "fruitful interplay." The eight questions proposed by the authors form the framework to enable such interactions. Authors Gem and Alan Fadling lists a few other questions to expand on this. These eight probing questions are:
What do you really want? (Your Desire)
What is getting in your way? (Your Resistance)
Where are you hiding? (Your Vulnerability)
What is most real to you? (Your Truth)
How are you suffering? (Your Pain)
What are you afraid of? (Your Fear)
What are you clinging to? (Your Control)
What does your soul love? (Your Joy)
Undergirding these questions is the fundamental truth of first being loved and beloved by God. This is the anchor from which all of our affections and desires proceed from. If God had not loved us first, how would we know what love is in the first place? God is the Initiator while we are the respondents. The authors remind us that transformation is never something we can do to ourselves. It is about our willingness to be changed. Using their experience and knowledge as spiritual directors, Gem and Alan help us along with asking simple basic questions. They supply us with "process words" to learn new ways to describe the spiritual orientations; exercises to enable us to practice; and reflection questions to challenge us.
The first question about desire begins with pace. We need to slow ourselves down to the pace that we need instead of being rushed about by external forces. Sometimes, when we pause for a reflective moment, we will begin to see that much of life is vanity. Then we will be prompted to ask what do we really want in life. This first step reminds us of the distinction Jesus made when he contrasts Mary's devotion to Him and Martha's harried behaviour. The second question tackles the barriers preventing us from being willing to change. Inner resistance is one of the hardest hurdles to overcome. The authors remind us that resistance to change is an impediment to growth and transformation. The third question deals with our vulnerability, to expose what we tend to hide. Until we learn to be honest before God, we will have trouble being honest with people, including ourselves. The fourth question is about differentiating the reality from fantasy. They contrast "relief" from "healing." Frequently, we mistake the former when what we really need is the latter. Like an able spiritual director, the authors guide us back to God. Then we are faced with the reality of the fifth question: "How are you suffering?" This is a sensitive phase as doubts may creep into our awareness of God's love. Truth is, pain is a signal that something is out of whack, and the way forward is toward healing, and spiritually, this means either reconciliation or renewal in God. The sixth question is about fear, especially when we feel alone. We need to then learn to realize God's presence with us and not allow false perceptions to deceive us. The seventh question reminds us to let go and let God. It is about faith and trust. If God is Lord, He must be Lord over all. Finally, the eighth question shows us the reason for it all: Joy. The authors remind us that the process of transformation is an ongoing one.
My Thoughts
These eight questions are gently dealt with in each brief chapter. One thing to note is that the book is less about answers but more about questions to help us locate the answers we need. Instead of probing the book for gems like a microscope, we ought to read the book like a mirror of our searching heart. Let the words guide us to ask the appropriate questions about our current status, our existing lifestyle, our desires, and more importantly, about ourselves. The key words throughout this book are the words "change" and "transformation." While the words may be different, their orientation is the same. Let me share three thoughts about the book.
First, motivation is needed to change. It has often been said: "Where there is a will, there is a way." This is about motivation to do something. The soul of the Christian faith is essentially about the love of God in Christ, to be loved, and called to share the love of God with all. This central motivation is the key to understanding the Christian faith. Sometimes, it is helpful to turn this question around to ask: Who is the One we truly love? What is it that we really desire in life? These questions can help to reveal our inner longings of the heart. For the revelation of these desires will help us face them head on.
Second, the key to any transformation is the willingness to change. No matter how much motivational exercises we do, if the heart is not triggered, there will be no progress. Sometimes, this needs some push, but more importantly, we need to be open to the working of the Spirit in our lives. Spiritual transformation is never something that is actively pursued by us. We need to let the Spirit work in us. Like what Jesus taught Nicodemus about being born again, as likened to the movement of the Spirit. Where it comes nobody knows where it comes from and where it is going. Being willing to change is about faith in God and trust that He knows what is best for us.
Third, use this book as a primer toward spiritual direction first rather than transformation. The questions asked may be too simple for some or overly intimidating for others. Nevertheless, take each question and pace ourselves to answer it. When the going gets tough, try another way to approach the question.
This is a wonderful book to help us distill the essence about our spiritual life.
Alan Fadling is president and founder of Unhurried Living, a ministry based in Mission Viejo, California that helps people to "rest deeper, live fuller, and lead better." Apart from just being spiritual director He has consulted widely including Saddleback Church, Open Doors International, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, and several others.
Gem Fadling is wife to Alan, and is a co-founder of the same ministry.
Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Inter-Varsity Press and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
What do you really want? (Your Desire)
What is getting in your way? (Your Resistance)
Where are you hiding? (Your Vulnerability)
What is most real to you? (Your Truth)
How are you suffering? (Your Pain)
What are you afraid of? (Your Fear)
What are you clinging to? (Your Control)
What does your soul love? (Your Joy)
Undergirding these questions is the fundamental truth of first being loved and beloved by God. This is the anchor from which all of our affections and desires proceed from. If God had not loved us first, how would we know what love is in the first place? God is the Initiator while we are the respondents. The authors remind us that transformation is never something we can do to ourselves. It is about our willingness to be changed. Using their experience and knowledge as spiritual directors, Gem and Alan help us along with asking simple basic questions. They supply us with "process words" to learn new ways to describe the spiritual orientations; exercises to enable us to practice; and reflection questions to challenge us.
The first question about desire begins with pace. We need to slow ourselves down to the pace that we need instead of being rushed about by external forces. Sometimes, when we pause for a reflective moment, we will begin to see that much of life is vanity. Then we will be prompted to ask what do we really want in life. This first step reminds us of the distinction Jesus made when he contrasts Mary's devotion to Him and Martha's harried behaviour. The second question tackles the barriers preventing us from being willing to change. Inner resistance is one of the hardest hurdles to overcome. The authors remind us that resistance to change is an impediment to growth and transformation. The third question deals with our vulnerability, to expose what we tend to hide. Until we learn to be honest before God, we will have trouble being honest with people, including ourselves. The fourth question is about differentiating the reality from fantasy. They contrast "relief" from "healing." Frequently, we mistake the former when what we really need is the latter. Like an able spiritual director, the authors guide us back to God. Then we are faced with the reality of the fifth question: "How are you suffering?" This is a sensitive phase as doubts may creep into our awareness of God's love. Truth is, pain is a signal that something is out of whack, and the way forward is toward healing, and spiritually, this means either reconciliation or renewal in God. The sixth question is about fear, especially when we feel alone. We need to then learn to realize God's presence with us and not allow false perceptions to deceive us. The seventh question reminds us to let go and let God. It is about faith and trust. If God is Lord, He must be Lord over all. Finally, the eighth question shows us the reason for it all: Joy. The authors remind us that the process of transformation is an ongoing one.
My Thoughts
These eight questions are gently dealt with in each brief chapter. One thing to note is that the book is less about answers but more about questions to help us locate the answers we need. Instead of probing the book for gems like a microscope, we ought to read the book like a mirror of our searching heart. Let the words guide us to ask the appropriate questions about our current status, our existing lifestyle, our desires, and more importantly, about ourselves. The key words throughout this book are the words "change" and "transformation." While the words may be different, their orientation is the same. Let me share three thoughts about the book.
First, motivation is needed to change. It has often been said: "Where there is a will, there is a way." This is about motivation to do something. The soul of the Christian faith is essentially about the love of God in Christ, to be loved, and called to share the love of God with all. This central motivation is the key to understanding the Christian faith. Sometimes, it is helpful to turn this question around to ask: Who is the One we truly love? What is it that we really desire in life? These questions can help to reveal our inner longings of the heart. For the revelation of these desires will help us face them head on.
Second, the key to any transformation is the willingness to change. No matter how much motivational exercises we do, if the heart is not triggered, there will be no progress. Sometimes, this needs some push, but more importantly, we need to be open to the working of the Spirit in our lives. Spiritual transformation is never something that is actively pursued by us. We need to let the Spirit work in us. Like what Jesus taught Nicodemus about being born again, as likened to the movement of the Spirit. Where it comes nobody knows where it comes from and where it is going. Being willing to change is about faith in God and trust that He knows what is best for us.
Third, use this book as a primer toward spiritual direction first rather than transformation. The questions asked may be too simple for some or overly intimidating for others. Nevertheless, take each question and pace ourselves to answer it. When the going gets tough, try another way to approach the question.
This is a wonderful book to help us distill the essence about our spiritual life.
Alan Fadling is president and founder of Unhurried Living, a ministry based in Mission Viejo, California that helps people to "rest deeper, live fuller, and lead better." Apart from just being spiritual director He has consulted widely including Saddleback Church, Open Doors International, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, and several others.
Gem Fadling is wife to Alan, and is a co-founder of the same ministry.
Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Inter-Varsity Press and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
May 29, 2019
Maybe you’ve been wanting to embark on the journey of spiritual transformation. You want to experience real change and you’ve tried changing your outward behaviors, but with no lasting result. In their book What Does Your Soul Love: Eight Questions That Reveal God’s Work in You, authors Gem and Alan Fadling say that transformation is actually a work of the heart that Jesus must do in you, which then affects your outward behavior. It’s an issue of cooperating with the Holy Spirit, they say.
If you’re still left wondering how that happens, pick up their book, What Does Your Soul Love? You’ll find a guided journey that leads you to address your inner soul in a dynamic way and engage with God more deeply. Besides addressing a particular transformational question, each chapter includes:
- Process words to help redefine some words to increase openness to what God wants to do in you;
- Exercises to help you take action; and
- Reflection questions for processing and personal journaling.
Gleaned from their own spiritual transformational journeys, the Fadlings offer these eight questions, which are unpacked in the book:
What do you really want? (Desire)
What is getting in your way? (Resistance)
Where are you hiding? (Vulnerability)
What is most real to you? (Truth)
How are you suffering? (Pain)
What are you afraid of? (Fear)
What are you clinging to? (Control)
What does your soul love? (Joy)
The book doesn’t offer easy answers, and the true journey will require hard work on your part as you become more aware of your soul and seek God on a deeper level. You’ll struggle through some things as you seek to answer the questions above. But all throughout, you’ll be reassured of this truth: “we are already loved as we currently are.” Pick up a copy of What Does Your Soul Love and begin the journey to true transformation. Patiently work your way through the book and God’s Word alongside, and you’ll find yourself growing in ways you never imagine.
Note: I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for this honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
If you’re still left wondering how that happens, pick up their book, What Does Your Soul Love? You’ll find a guided journey that leads you to address your inner soul in a dynamic way and engage with God more deeply. Besides addressing a particular transformational question, each chapter includes:
- Process words to help redefine some words to increase openness to what God wants to do in you;
- Exercises to help you take action; and
- Reflection questions for processing and personal journaling.
Gleaned from their own spiritual transformational journeys, the Fadlings offer these eight questions, which are unpacked in the book:
What do you really want? (Desire)
What is getting in your way? (Resistance)
Where are you hiding? (Vulnerability)
What is most real to you? (Truth)
How are you suffering? (Pain)
What are you afraid of? (Fear)
What are you clinging to? (Control)
What does your soul love? (Joy)
The book doesn’t offer easy answers, and the true journey will require hard work on your part as you become more aware of your soul and seek God on a deeper level. You’ll struggle through some things as you seek to answer the questions above. But all throughout, you’ll be reassured of this truth: “we are already loved as we currently are.” Pick up a copy of What Does Your Soul Love and begin the journey to true transformation. Patiently work your way through the book and God’s Word alongside, and you’ll find yourself growing in ways you never imagine.
Note: I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for this honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 19, 2019
This is a book about discovering who you are by learning about how God is working inside you. I picked up “What Does Your Soul Love? Eight Questions That Reveal God's Work In You” because I thought it might be interesting. I wasn't expecting it to make me think so deeply or encourage spiritual transformation and personal growth at such a deep level.
The authors, Alan and Gem Fadling, ask readers a series of eight questions designed to cultivate “deeper awareness and soul focus.” What do you really want? What is getting in your way? Where are you hiding? What is most real to you? How are you suffering? What are you afraid of? What are you clinging to? What does your soul love?
With each chapter, they discuss a core aspect of who we are deep down inside. Desire, resistance, vulnerability, truth, pain, fear, control, joy – how we experience and relate to these things has a huge impact on who we are as people. As the chapters unfold, the Fadlings discuss each topic in depth and invite us to think about change in these areas as something that happens inwardly as a result of God's work in us rather than as outward changes we need to try and make ourselves.
I found the exercise and reflection questions at the end of each chapter hit-and-miss for me personally. Some were extremely helpful while others fell-flat. I didn't resonate with many (though not all) of the authors' personal examples either and found myself skimming over them a few times. However, that was more of a personal preference than an issue with the book. Overall, I found the questions, content, and perspective on growth offered in “What Does Your Soul Love?” challenging in all the best ways. I highly recommend it for those interested in spiritual growth and development.
My thanks to InterVarsity Press, the authors, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The authors, Alan and Gem Fadling, ask readers a series of eight questions designed to cultivate “deeper awareness and soul focus.” What do you really want? What is getting in your way? Where are you hiding? What is most real to you? How are you suffering? What are you afraid of? What are you clinging to? What does your soul love?
With each chapter, they discuss a core aspect of who we are deep down inside. Desire, resistance, vulnerability, truth, pain, fear, control, joy – how we experience and relate to these things has a huge impact on who we are as people. As the chapters unfold, the Fadlings discuss each topic in depth and invite us to think about change in these areas as something that happens inwardly as a result of God's work in us rather than as outward changes we need to try and make ourselves.
I found the exercise and reflection questions at the end of each chapter hit-and-miss for me personally. Some were extremely helpful while others fell-flat. I didn't resonate with many (though not all) of the authors' personal examples either and found myself skimming over them a few times. However, that was more of a personal preference than an issue with the book. Overall, I found the questions, content, and perspective on growth offered in “What Does Your Soul Love?” challenging in all the best ways. I highly recommend it for those interested in spiritual growth and development.
My thanks to InterVarsity Press, the authors, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 12, 2019
What Does Your Soul Love? is a book that can be used as part of your own spiritual discipline work. There is also a group guide for those who might want to use it with a small group. There are eight questions (one question per chapter) that the authors use to guide your reflection. The first is “what do you really want?” And the last is “Joy: What does your soul love?”. I particularly enjoyed reflecting on this to guide my life right now. It helped me remember how much I love singing and I am doing a lot of that right now.
This book has the right amount of reflection and examples from the authors as well as Biblical examples and questions for reflection. This would be an excellent book for those who are experienced with the spiritual disciplines or those seeking to learn more.
I received a complementary copy from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book has the right amount of reflection and examples from the authors as well as Biblical examples and questions for reflection. This would be an excellent book for those who are experienced with the spiritual disciplines or those seeking to learn more.
I received a complementary copy from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2019
In What Does Your Soul Love? Gem and Alan Fadling propose eight questions that are key to holistic soul care. Readers will resonate with at least one, if not multiple, questions prompted by the authors, and will dive deep into identity and meaning. Readers will come face-to-face with questions that will cause reflection on challenges that hinder living life abundantly.
As Fadling and Fadling put it, “we are not the prime movers in this transformation … rather than being initiators of the action, we are responders to the action of another.” God is seeking to transform us and we can either hide away and avoid this transformation and face it and move in head-on. This book will help you do just that.
From resistance to vulnerability, fear to control, this book will prompt every reader to face some of the darkest experiences that have been hidden away. But Fadling and Fadling don’t just ask the questions, they live the questions through stories of their own experiences that will make the reader feel comfort that others have been to the same deep places in life. What Does Your Soul Love? promotes a process and provides the reader with hands-on practice on reflection and steps to change.
I recommend picking this up, no matter if you believe you have soul care challenges or not. This book will cause you to reflect deeply, become more self-aware, and seek the face of Jesus more intently than you have before.
As Fadling and Fadling put it, “we are not the prime movers in this transformation … rather than being initiators of the action, we are responders to the action of another.” God is seeking to transform us and we can either hide away and avoid this transformation and face it and move in head-on. This book will help you do just that.
From resistance to vulnerability, fear to control, this book will prompt every reader to face some of the darkest experiences that have been hidden away. But Fadling and Fadling don’t just ask the questions, they live the questions through stories of their own experiences that will make the reader feel comfort that others have been to the same deep places in life. What Does Your Soul Love? promotes a process and provides the reader with hands-on practice on reflection and steps to change.
I recommend picking this up, no matter if you believe you have soul care challenges or not. This book will cause you to reflect deeply, become more self-aware, and seek the face of Jesus more intently than you have before.
September 21, 2019
This book gives you eight “soul” questions to ponder.
Desire: What do you really want?
Resistance: What is getting in your way?
Vulnerability: Where are you hiding?
Truth: What is most real to you?
Pain: How are your suffering?
Fear: What are you afraid of?
Control: What are you clinging to?
Joy: What does your soul love?
With insight and practical application exercises, Alan and Gem lead you through these questions in this spiritual primer for your inner life.
The topics are diverse and entire libraries have been written on the subjects of each section, but here is a book that gives insightful consideration and a solid jumping off point for each topic. Applicable for someone who is just putting their toes into the river of spiritual formation as well as for those who are at home swimming in deep waters, What Does Your Soul Love is a valuable companion on the journey of transformation.
I received a free digital galley of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Desire: What do you really want?
Resistance: What is getting in your way?
Vulnerability: Where are you hiding?
Truth: What is most real to you?
Pain: How are your suffering?
Fear: What are you afraid of?
Control: What are you clinging to?
Joy: What does your soul love?
With insight and practical application exercises, Alan and Gem lead you through these questions in this spiritual primer for your inner life.
The topics are diverse and entire libraries have been written on the subjects of each section, but here is a book that gives insightful consideration and a solid jumping off point for each topic. Applicable for someone who is just putting their toes into the river of spiritual formation as well as for those who are at home swimming in deep waters, What Does Your Soul Love is a valuable companion on the journey of transformation.
I received a free digital galley of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 19, 2019
What happens when two unhurried people thoughtfully consider the ways of transformation? A book worth pondering comes forth.
This, however, isn’t simply a book about the topic of transformation. It isn’t eight easy steps to becoming a transformed person. Rather, What Does Your Soul Love? invites us to encounter eight piercing questions. Each reveals some aspect of the architecture of the heart in need of the interior design.
Questions invite, challenge, clarify, and dip deep into the heart of the reader. Spiritual exercises at each chapter’s end help us pay attention. As we explore the answers to these eight questions, Holy Spirit moves us from simply skimming the surface of life to a deep dive into tender places of the soul.
Reading this book leads to deep conversations with God about the state of one’s heart. Are you reluctant to change? Read on. Are you revved up to change? Read on. Are you rejoicing at change? Read on.
As a spiritual director, I revisited places that ache for more healing alongside discovering afresh unexplored places within myself. What Does Your Soul Love? Eight Questions That Reveal God’s Work In You will certainly serve as a springboard in my practice of spiritual direction. If you minister to others through teaching, leading small groups, mentoring, or encouraging others, this is your book.
Whether you use this book for your own personal journey, for dialogue within a book club, or as the focus for your small group Bible study, the book, like a retreat, isn’t to be rushed through, but rather held and examined over the course of time.
Gem and Alan Fadling, known for their Unhurried sense of approaching life, unveil their transparent, vulnerable stories. They draw us into the risky business of moving from where we are to where God is inviting us to be by showing us how God moved within them. It’s one thing to talk about transformation; it’s another to mirror it with real life vignettes.
Let their words written here linger long in you. Dare to ponder your desires, resistances, vulnerabilities: the things going on at the very core of your being. Unbend the traps of pain, fear, and control. Find release and rejoicing while you discover and recover places of joyful transformation.
What My Soul Loves? Eight Questions that Reveal God’s Work in You, published in 2019 by IVP an imprint of InterVarsity Press is authored by Gem and Alan Fadling.
#WhatDoesYourSoulLove
May your reading set the tone for a new perspective on a familiar topic: transformation for the good of God’s people.
This, however, isn’t simply a book about the topic of transformation. It isn’t eight easy steps to becoming a transformed person. Rather, What Does Your Soul Love? invites us to encounter eight piercing questions. Each reveals some aspect of the architecture of the heart in need of the interior design.
Questions invite, challenge, clarify, and dip deep into the heart of the reader. Spiritual exercises at each chapter’s end help us pay attention. As we explore the answers to these eight questions, Holy Spirit moves us from simply skimming the surface of life to a deep dive into tender places of the soul.
Reading this book leads to deep conversations with God about the state of one’s heart. Are you reluctant to change? Read on. Are you revved up to change? Read on. Are you rejoicing at change? Read on.
As a spiritual director, I revisited places that ache for more healing alongside discovering afresh unexplored places within myself. What Does Your Soul Love? Eight Questions That Reveal God’s Work In You will certainly serve as a springboard in my practice of spiritual direction. If you minister to others through teaching, leading small groups, mentoring, or encouraging others, this is your book.
Whether you use this book for your own personal journey, for dialogue within a book club, or as the focus for your small group Bible study, the book, like a retreat, isn’t to be rushed through, but rather held and examined over the course of time.
Gem and Alan Fadling, known for their Unhurried sense of approaching life, unveil their transparent, vulnerable stories. They draw us into the risky business of moving from where we are to where God is inviting us to be by showing us how God moved within them. It’s one thing to talk about transformation; it’s another to mirror it with real life vignettes.
Let their words written here linger long in you. Dare to ponder your desires, resistances, vulnerabilities: the things going on at the very core of your being. Unbend the traps of pain, fear, and control. Find release and rejoicing while you discover and recover places of joyful transformation.
What My Soul Loves? Eight Questions that Reveal God’s Work in You, published in 2019 by IVP an imprint of InterVarsity Press is authored by Gem and Alan Fadling.
#WhatDoesYourSoulLove
May your reading set the tone for a new perspective on a familiar topic: transformation for the good of God’s people.
September 17, 2019
Tranformational, Encouraging, Practical, Engaging, challenging. These are just some of the adjectives that begin to express the character of the book "Whom does your Soul love".
As a spiritual director/counsellor/mentor I am always looking books that can help people in their journey with Christ. I highly recommend this book! It is a road map to personal renewal and transformation.
Looking at the table of contents reveals how this book directs us on our path in a very gentle but clear path on our journey to the celestial city:
1 INVITATION: Changing from the Center
2 DESIRE: What Do You Really Want?
3 RESISTANCE: What Is Getting in Your Way?
4 VULNERABILITY: Where Are You Hiding?
5 TRUTH: What Is Most Real to You?
6 PAIN: How Are You Suffering?
7 FEAR: What Are You Afraid Of?
8 CONTROL: What Are You Clinging To?
9 JOY: What Does Your Soul Love?
10 PROCESS: Staying on the Path of Change
They share key steps to transformation from their own lives as they explain in Chapter 1, Invitation:
"This journey is an opportunity to become skilled at living in the reality of the kingdom. It is a process of coming to live with more practiced facility in the ways the kingdom works here on earth. This is the direction of our transformation. We move from learning, talking, or thinking about those ways to experimenting with and eventually embodying them. We grow humbly confident in the ways of interactive friendship with Jesus our Master."
I also love the reflection/action/discussion questions at the end of the chapter and hope to use it in my own practice as a key resource to help people grow in their intimacy with God.
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of What Does Your Soul Love? from the publisher. I was not required to post a review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.*
As a spiritual director/counsellor/mentor I am always looking books that can help people in their journey with Christ. I highly recommend this book! It is a road map to personal renewal and transformation.
Looking at the table of contents reveals how this book directs us on our path in a very gentle but clear path on our journey to the celestial city:
1 INVITATION: Changing from the Center
2 DESIRE: What Do You Really Want?
3 RESISTANCE: What Is Getting in Your Way?
4 VULNERABILITY: Where Are You Hiding?
5 TRUTH: What Is Most Real to You?
6 PAIN: How Are You Suffering?
7 FEAR: What Are You Afraid Of?
8 CONTROL: What Are You Clinging To?
9 JOY: What Does Your Soul Love?
10 PROCESS: Staying on the Path of Change
They share key steps to transformation from their own lives as they explain in Chapter 1, Invitation:
"This journey is an opportunity to become skilled at living in the reality of the kingdom. It is a process of coming to live with more practiced facility in the ways the kingdom works here on earth. This is the direction of our transformation. We move from learning, talking, or thinking about those ways to experimenting with and eventually embodying them. We grow humbly confident in the ways of interactive friendship with Jesus our Master."
I also love the reflection/action/discussion questions at the end of the chapter and hope to use it in my own practice as a key resource to help people grow in their intimacy with God.
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of What Does Your Soul Love? from the publisher. I was not required to post a review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.*
September 14, 2019
An Indispensable Guide For Soul Work
Upon reading What Does Your Soul Love? Eight Questions That Reveal God's Work In You, by Gem and Alan Fadling, I found a book that I was very eager to read and study. What Does Your Soul Love? guides readers on a transformative, life-changing journey toward a deep abundant life with God. The Fadlings have written a book that needs to be savored slowly, as readers reflect deeply on each of the eight questions. The questions help readers to look carefully within their own souls, and begin the process of living an authentic, intentional life for the Kingdom of God.
The authors share personal stories relevant to encouraging readers to join them on the journey of spiritual transformation. What Does Your Soul Love? is enjoyable to read, but it is definitely a book that will change your life, and confront the obstacles that hinder a deep relationship with God. Filled with practical applications, reflection questions, and spiritual growth exercises, What Does Your Soul Love? is definitely a book that you will be reading and reflecting upon over and over, filling the margins with notes and highlighting passages which speak directly to your own soul.
I highly recommend What Does Your Soul Love? This book is a must-have for anyone seeking to live an authentic, intentional, and intimate relationship with God.
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of What Does Your Soul Love? from the publisher. I was not required to post a review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.*
Upon reading What Does Your Soul Love? Eight Questions That Reveal God's Work In You, by Gem and Alan Fadling, I found a book that I was very eager to read and study. What Does Your Soul Love? guides readers on a transformative, life-changing journey toward a deep abundant life with God. The Fadlings have written a book that needs to be savored slowly, as readers reflect deeply on each of the eight questions. The questions help readers to look carefully within their own souls, and begin the process of living an authentic, intentional life for the Kingdom of God.
The authors share personal stories relevant to encouraging readers to join them on the journey of spiritual transformation. What Does Your Soul Love? is enjoyable to read, but it is definitely a book that will change your life, and confront the obstacles that hinder a deep relationship with God. Filled with practical applications, reflection questions, and spiritual growth exercises, What Does Your Soul Love? is definitely a book that you will be reading and reflecting upon over and over, filling the margins with notes and highlighting passages which speak directly to your own soul.
I highly recommend What Does Your Soul Love? This book is a must-have for anyone seeking to live an authentic, intentional, and intimate relationship with God.
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of What Does Your Soul Love? from the publisher. I was not required to post a review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.*
September 17, 2019
I have been a pastor for over 30 years and have been walking in spiritual formation circles during all of that time. This book fits perfectly within the classic works of spiritual formation literature, allowing the reader to dive deep into their own souls and to make the necessary grace-produced Spirit-led changes.
Alan and Gem Fadling have decades of experience in spiritual formation and their stories reveal this is not just a professional pursuit for them, but these words are lived out by them. The reader does not need any experience with spiritual formation to grow immensely while reading this book. It would be great to use in discipleship settings or small groups as each chapter opens up significant issues in the lives of its readers and then ends with discussion questions.
What does your soul Love?: Eight questions that reveal God's work in you - is a refreshing read for those looking to God to awaken them to the abundant life he desires for them. Whether you are a new believer or seasoned pastor, this book will continue to impact you for years to come. What Does Your Soul Love?: Eight Questions That Reveal God's Work in You
Alan and Gem Fadling have decades of experience in spiritual formation and their stories reveal this is not just a professional pursuit for them, but these words are lived out by them. The reader does not need any experience with spiritual formation to grow immensely while reading this book. It would be great to use in discipleship settings or small groups as each chapter opens up significant issues in the lives of its readers and then ends with discussion questions.
What does your soul Love?: Eight questions that reveal God's work in you - is a refreshing read for those looking to God to awaken them to the abundant life he desires for them. Whether you are a new believer or seasoned pastor, this book will continue to impact you for years to come. What Does Your Soul Love?: Eight Questions That Reveal God's Work in You
September 26, 2019
What Does Your Soul Love arrived amidst a season where God was prompting me to wake up to desires I’d buried deep within me for the sake of maintaining a sense of peace. Okay, first chapter in and I’m asked to answer the question “what do I really want?” Hmmm…timely? I think so! Thus started a journey of exploring the landscape of my soul. I recognized reasons I pushed desires under (ch. 3), discovered self-soothing hiding places (ch. 4), and uncovered what truly lay behind my desires (ch. 5). I was challenged to accept where there was pain (ch. 6), and encouraged to deal with the fear of what such acceptance meant to me (ch. 7) by letting go with deeper trust (ch. 8) as I allow myself to be filled to overflowing with God’s goodness (ch. 9). What an invaluable process! This is a book I will return to time and time again. It is one I will read slowly. I will pay close attention to the emphasized words, engage my mind’s eye through the exercises and consider each question asked with intentional reflection. As a Life Coach, I am grateful for an extremely practical tool to help others experience transformation. And, as an author, I am indebted to Gem and Alan for imprinting my soul in such a meaningful way that is sure to impact my writing. Thank you, Gem and Alan Fadling for this timeless gift!
September 17, 2019
I've followed the Fadlings through their work with Unhurried Living and Alan's previous publications. I appreciated hearing Gem's voice (along with Alan's) in this co-authored book. I was given the opportunity to read an advance copy while awaiting the delivery of my pre-order.
Leveraging their work as Spiritual Directors, the Fadlings pose 8 questions to ponder:
Desire: What do you really want?
Resistance: What is getting in your way?
Vulnerability: Where are you hiding?
Truth: What is most real to you?
Pain: How are your suffering?
Fear: What are you afraid of?
Control: What are you clinging to?
Joy: What does your soul love?
With transparency and vulnerability they expand these questions, then offer exercises and practices which invite the reader into a process of reflection and spiritual growth. Whether savored individually or explored as a part of a small group, this is a book worth reading - slowly - to fully appreciate all that is here.
Co-authored books can often be a bit choppy, yet this one manages that complexity well. There are moments when the multiple voices feel a bit redundant, but the richness of their personal stories make any extra effort worthwhile.
Leveraging their work as Spiritual Directors, the Fadlings pose 8 questions to ponder:
Desire: What do you really want?
Resistance: What is getting in your way?
Vulnerability: Where are you hiding?
Truth: What is most real to you?
Pain: How are your suffering?
Fear: What are you afraid of?
Control: What are you clinging to?
Joy: What does your soul love?
With transparency and vulnerability they expand these questions, then offer exercises and practices which invite the reader into a process of reflection and spiritual growth. Whether savored individually or explored as a part of a small group, this is a book worth reading - slowly - to fully appreciate all that is here.
Co-authored books can often be a bit choppy, yet this one manages that complexity well. There are moments when the multiple voices feel a bit redundant, but the richness of their personal stories make any extra effort worthwhile.
September 12, 2019
Do you want to embark on a deeper journey of transformation toward Christlikeness? What Does Your Soul Love? by Alan and Gem Fadling is the book you are looking for. From the start the Fadlings encourage the reader to “stop occasionally and sink down” so that we can “get in touch with the deeper, more significant, even eternal realities that we want to shape our lives.” If we spend time with the text and are honest in our responses to the exercises and questions, this book can put us in a place where we can be transformed by the work of the Holy Spirit.
Through the ten chapters, the Fadlings guide us on a journey of personal transformation. Eight questions with eight corresponding key words are the focus points on this journey. Each chapter is written in a conversational tone and contain many Biblical examples, relatable real-life experiences, exercises, and thought-provoking questions.
I had the privilege of receiving an advance pdf copy of this well-written, life-changing book. I can’t wait to receive the print version and spend time working through each chapter again, being challenged and open to the work of the Holy Spirit in my life through this book.
Through the ten chapters, the Fadlings guide us on a journey of personal transformation. Eight questions with eight corresponding key words are the focus points on this journey. Each chapter is written in a conversational tone and contain many Biblical examples, relatable real-life experiences, exercises, and thought-provoking questions.
I had the privilege of receiving an advance pdf copy of this well-written, life-changing book. I can’t wait to receive the print version and spend time working through each chapter again, being challenged and open to the work of the Holy Spirit in my life through this book.
August 3, 2019
If you are looking for a little clarity on your own life from a spiritual (Christian) standpoint, this book is a great choice. It is very accessible with plain language and very brief excerpts from the Bible, as well as plenty of conversational advice and anecdotes from the authors.
Because there are two authors, I was pleasantly surprised with how cohesive this text is. Sometimes books with multiple authors can get a little clunky with two writers giving personal anecdotes. This book handled that aspect well.
I liked that the authors organized their thoughts around 8 questions you can ask yourself, journal about, or pray about. There are also short, popping questions in callout boxes throughout the book -- some of these are like little mini truth-bombs (like "Do you want relief or do you want healing?"). The writing doesn't come across as directives; rather it feels like an open conversation where you can imagine the authors saying to you, "Tell me more about that (situation/feeling/etc.)."
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy.
Because there are two authors, I was pleasantly surprised with how cohesive this text is. Sometimes books with multiple authors can get a little clunky with two writers giving personal anecdotes. This book handled that aspect well.
I liked that the authors organized their thoughts around 8 questions you can ask yourself, journal about, or pray about. There are also short, popping questions in callout boxes throughout the book -- some of these are like little mini truth-bombs (like "Do you want relief or do you want healing?"). The writing doesn't come across as directives; rather it feels like an open conversation where you can imagine the authors saying to you, "Tell me more about that (situation/feeling/etc.)."
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy.
September 17, 2019
What Does Your Soul Love? is a must read for the reader who is desiring true and lasting encouragement to make the changes in their life that they've felt called to make. Great book for us that feel stuck in our lives.
Gem and Alan Fadlng have written a foundational book for the cyclical times in life that we are stuck and know that we are being asked to make lasting changes in our lifestyle, relationships, work lives and daily ordinary lives at home.
They pose eight uncomplicated questions that do not always have simple answers in our lives.
This book is filled with honesty from the authors lives that help the reader to reflect upon their own life.
I will read this book with others within Discipleship groups, and other small group gatherings in retreat settings, spiritual direction, counseling tool and for personal silent retreats. I can't recommend this book enough.
Prepare to be challenged and encouraged to make the physical, emotional and spiritual changes that your heart has desired!
Gem and Alan Fadlng have written a foundational book for the cyclical times in life that we are stuck and know that we are being asked to make lasting changes in our lifestyle, relationships, work lives and daily ordinary lives at home.
They pose eight uncomplicated questions that do not always have simple answers in our lives.
This book is filled with honesty from the authors lives that help the reader to reflect upon their own life.
I will read this book with others within Discipleship groups, and other small group gatherings in retreat settings, spiritual direction, counseling tool and for personal silent retreats. I can't recommend this book enough.
Prepare to be challenged and encouraged to make the physical, emotional and spiritual changes that your heart has desired!
September 18, 2019
I picked up a copy of What Does Your Soul Love directly from IVP, so while I'm not a "Verified Purchase," I did buy this book. Mainly because An Unhurried Life really spoke to me, was a great challenge for my spiritual life, so I wanted to check out this new work.
First, the overall format is good: self-discovery is guided through questions, not through direct statements. But the Fadlings do not just give you flat questions--instead, these are drawn from Christian Scripture and from their own experiences as followers of Jesus.
Second, I liked the layout of each chapter, with opening points of summary and closing questions. The group discussion guide is also helpful.
Overall, there are a few points where your theology might differ with the Fadlings--some Christian traditions have a bit more emphasis on work and less emphasis on stillness--but even if that is the case, you can still profit from the viewpoint.
I highly recommend What Does Your Soul Love? and look forward to using it in a small group study.
First, the overall format is good: self-discovery is guided through questions, not through direct statements. But the Fadlings do not just give you flat questions--instead, these are drawn from Christian Scripture and from their own experiences as followers of Jesus.
Second, I liked the layout of each chapter, with opening points of summary and closing questions. The group discussion guide is also helpful.
Overall, there are a few points where your theology might differ with the Fadlings--some Christian traditions have a bit more emphasis on work and less emphasis on stillness--but even if that is the case, you can still profit from the viewpoint.
I highly recommend What Does Your Soul Love? and look forward to using it in a small group study.
September 11, 2019
I love this book. Really anything by the Fadlings is amazing, and if you haven't read their first book, The Unhurried Life, stop everything that you are doing and go get the book and don't stop until you are done. Ok, maybe do it unhurriedly....
But this book is so wonderful. It is framed around 8 deep questions, questions to sink into and really let them guide to a deeper understanding of themselves and where God is calling them to. This is the kind of book that I want to read more than once, as it is so rich with deep questions and contemplation that you can miss things the first time though. I was able to read an advance reader on my iphone, and can't wait to get a hard copy to be able to highlight and make notes in. There were so many notes that I made and posted on Instragram. For two week, my IG feed was full of screenshots.
I love this book. Get it and get comfy.
But this book is so wonderful. It is framed around 8 deep questions, questions to sink into and really let them guide to a deeper understanding of themselves and where God is calling them to. This is the kind of book that I want to read more than once, as it is so rich with deep questions and contemplation that you can miss things the first time though. I was able to read an advance reader on my iphone, and can't wait to get a hard copy to be able to highlight and make notes in. There were so many notes that I made and posted on Instragram. For two week, my IG feed was full of screenshots.
I love this book. Get it and get comfy.
September 12, 2019
This book by authors Gem & Alan Fadling is about soul change. I started reading it knowing that it was "right up my alley," but I did not fully grasp how the words would envelop my heart and open me to healing. Allen and Gem's transparency in their personal stories is a gift in itself. Helping me see my own humanity, they remind me that I am perfectly safe in the kingdom of God. I would have to say my favorite chapter is chapter 8 on the topic of control. Gem reminds us that "No one plans for a dark night. But in a season like that, something can be planted deep within. Perhaps when it goes dark in one area, there is room for an unexpected gift to show up in another."
If you find yourself interested in going deeper into your understanding of God's good work in you, then you should own this book. Your new journey will be transformative!
If you find yourself interested in going deeper into your understanding of God's good work in you, then you should own this book. Your new journey will be transformative!
September 12, 2019
What Does Your Soul Love? is a transformational masterpiece as real-world experiences evolve to an intricate analysis of biblical principles and exploration of how to rest more closely in Jesus. Each chapter could take 20 minutes or several hours to digest as Gem and Alan lead you through a soul-wrenching examination of the darkest corners of your heart. I at once felt validated yet convicted. Overburdened and yet at peace. Compelled and yet quiet. Time passed quickly and yet time stood still. As you embark on the rich soul work that eight basic but intricate questions inspire, you will feel transformation happening in your heart and in your mind. You will come deeply and childishly into the presence of Jesus who will wrap you in his arms as you relinquish control and learn the art of what it means to truly let go and let God speak into your quieted heart.
October 1, 2019
I was excited to receive a copy of "What Does Your Soul Love?: Eight Questions That Reveal God's Work In You" from IVP for two reasons. I had read and benefited from Alan Fadling's other two books and I am a great lover of questions.
All of us need physical check-ups from time to time. And our Soul's are no different. We need Soul diagnostics to see how we are doing. Gem and Alan's work provides 8 essential questions to check-in with our soul and see how we are doing. Sharing for both their personal experience and insights for other great spiritual guides (Willard, Merton, Murray, etc.) Gem and Alan take us into our soul's longing and loves to help us get a clear picture of just where we are at. They also provide helpful questions and spiritual practices to work through on the path towards transformation.
Is it time for a soul check-up? Read this book!
All of us need physical check-ups from time to time. And our Soul's are no different. We need Soul diagnostics to see how we are doing. Gem and Alan's work provides 8 essential questions to check-in with our soul and see how we are doing. Sharing for both their personal experience and insights for other great spiritual guides (Willard, Merton, Murray, etc.) Gem and Alan take us into our soul's longing and loves to help us get a clear picture of just where we are at. They also provide helpful questions and spiritual practices to work through on the path towards transformation.
Is it time for a soul check-up? Read this book!
September 11, 2019
I had the privilege of receiving an advance copy of this book, and it is one of the best books on soul care that I have read. Gem Fadling does a great job of breaking down each part of what is needed for a healthy soul. Written with wonderful examples, personal experience, and more, each chapter dives deeply into the subject matter. The author does not avoid topics but goes to the heart of the matter...our soul needs honesty and truth to face issues of fear, control, resistance and even being real and vulnerable.
There are few books that I can honestly save have changed my perspective and life, but this is one of those special books. Do yourself a favor and get this book...take time to read and digest the words. It will be time well-spent.
There are few books that I can honestly save have changed my perspective and life, but this is one of those special books. Do yourself a favor and get this book...take time to read and digest the words. It will be time well-spent.
November 1, 2019
This book is really excellent! It takes you through a series of eight questions to help you discern where you're at spiritually and where there's room to grow in your walk with God. I would have appreciated a more Scripture-centered organization...like, I don't have any issues with the theology in this book, but it's very self reflection-focused, and there were times where I wanted there to be a more devotional-type breakdown of "ok, what does the Bible say about this?" BUT, overall I enjoyed it and it got me thinking through some good questions and practicing some healthy reflection-- if you're looking for a good introduction to spiritual formation, this book would be a wonderful choice! (and, if you're interested in practicing journaling, this book would be PERFECT to journal through).
September 15, 2019
Thank you Gem and Alan Fadling! Thank you for putting an authentic, thoughtful, high-definition version of transformation in print! Thank you for the ways you addressed topics with which we struggle, like desire, control and pain in a way that invites us to fully engage with our own struggles in our journey with Jesus. As I read this book, I was given fresh eyes on my own challenges. I was given new, very practical insight about how God can transform me as I continue to surrender to Him and work with Him. Thank you!
February 1, 2020
I received an ARC from InterVarsity Press, this review expresses my personal opinion.
Prepare yourself to go deeper into being who God wants you to be, the fact the Gem and Alan Fadling write this book honestly and openly makes it more relatable. While reading this book I had to take time, not only to answer the questions at the end of each chapter. But to let God speak to me through these eight questions. And I am still working through them, I believe that this book like the word on chapter one, it is an invitation from God to look our life closer and with a different perspective, to be open, genuine, to be real first with God and then with ourselves. A great choice and recommend it.
Prepare yourself to go deeper into being who God wants you to be, the fact the Gem and Alan Fadling write this book honestly and openly makes it more relatable. While reading this book I had to take time, not only to answer the questions at the end of each chapter. But to let God speak to me through these eight questions. And I am still working through them, I believe that this book like the word on chapter one, it is an invitation from God to look our life closer and with a different perspective, to be open, genuine, to be real first with God and then with ourselves. A great choice and recommend it.
April 16, 2020
The content was great but it is very disappointing that Gem's filter and conclusion of the book are around diet and exercise. She describes her former disordered eating habits but I would actually say that her current relationship with food is highly disordered and her writing actually promotes disordered eating and body dysphoria. The point of the book is lost. If you can ignore Gem's examples and skip the last chapter, the content is great. I will not read another book authored by Gem but I would absolutely consider reading more from co-author and husband Alan.
January 27, 2020
**I received this book from the InterVarsity Press through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.**
I liked the idea of this book a lot. The eight questions asked have been helpful in evaluating where I am, but I had a hard time connecting with this book. I’m not sure if it was the format or the writing style, but it was a much slower read than I expected. There are probably other books I’d recommend on “revealing God’s work in you” before this but overall it wasn’t a bad one.
I liked the idea of this book a lot. The eight questions asked have been helpful in evaluating where I am, but I had a hard time connecting with this book. I’m not sure if it was the format or the writing style, but it was a much slower read than I expected. There are probably other books I’d recommend on “revealing God’s work in you” before this but overall it wasn’t a bad one.
November 13, 2022
Good Book - some very helpful points and frames to look at the issue of formation. My wish would have been that Alan and Gem had escaped the traditional Christendom paradigm and moved into a more communal approach. It is literally all done through a personal lens. (With a few communal comments int he last chapter).
Still a good read... and a better resource for exploring how God wants to shape us... I will pick it up many times agin and offer it to others.
Still a good read... and a better resource for exploring how God wants to shape us... I will pick it up many times agin and offer it to others.
May 10, 2020
This is more like 3.5 stars. (After 20 years of trying to get Goodreads to do half-stars, I have given up the fight.)
I took a lot of good things from this book, but I came here for Alan Fadling and ended up with a co-written book between Alan and his wife Gem. For me, it was hard to go back and forth, and I prefer Alan's voice.
I took a lot of good things from this book, but I came here for Alan Fadling and ended up with a co-written book between Alan and his wife Gem. For me, it was hard to go back and forth, and I prefer Alan's voice.
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