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Able Soul: Empowering God's Spirit Within
Freedom is ACCESSIBLE in every circumstance.
Sharing her personal journey of overcoming the barriers of her physical disability, Lucy Goncalves reveals how God’s goodness and faithfulness are reflected in every season of life. She encourages you to invite God into your everyday challenges and to overcome your own adversities with his grace.
These pages are filled with hope, humor, honesty and healing. Lucy’s story is not only an inspiration, it’s an invitation to live above and beyond any barrier you face.
Come on this journey with Lucy as she intimately shares her reflections and prayers, encouraging you to enter a place of freedom where you can walk in the fullness of HIS ability.
You will be empowered by the depth, strength and transparency of Able Soul
89 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 27, 2019
10 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 23, 2022
The reason I chose to sign up for this tour is because it resonated with me as I had a similar birth experience except I was left in the birth canal for an unknown amount of time as the drs waited for the placenta and my kept insisting there was a 2nd baby there...I was a surprise identical twin who had trauma to my unbiblical cord early on in pregnancy that mended just enough for me to get fed after my twin sister was fed first due to our position in the womb(how they figured out our position and she got fed first without knowing there were two of us is beyond me but whatever that's the story my mom tells 🤷♀️ I guess they figured out things later after the placenta was examined) so I was malnourished and not breathing or dead at birth(depending on who is telling the story when because it was only in the past few years that my Granny actually said I was dead...a lot of things I didn't know about my birth and the aftereffects didn't come to light until I was in my 40s(I'm 46 now). I was developmentally delayed and blind in my left eye due to a hematoma birthmark under my eyelids that caused my brain to just develop connection with my good eye and ignore the other,it was thought that I had optic nerve damage but again in the last several years with better technology my eye dr says that there's no optic nerve damage but I am having early degenerative eye condition in my blind eye. I didn't have much help besides speech in my first two years of school and always having a seat in front of the classroom because my parents didn't want the stigma of special ed services for me. So I learned to cope on my own and although I ended up getting my college degree later in life, I'm still the only one in my immediate family that has and I did it with a 3.0 GPA and quite a few semesters where I was on the Dean's list for 3.5 or higher GPA. I can't say I did this alone, without God that dream wouldn't have happened as I did it in my late 20s&early 30s as a single mom with two kids with social, emotional and behavioral issues themselves and fighting early stages of chronic illness. However, shortly after I got my 2 teacher certifications, my health started to decline rapidly and I wasn't able to work full time so I subbed until I couldn't work anymore. So I figured this book could give me some inspiration and spiritual help and encouragement. I have to say,the author makes the devotions or chapters simple to read yet get the point across. By a few chapters in I was emotional as it hit a spiritual nerve and I was ready to quit reading for the night(I attempted to read it in one sitting and planned on going back and reflect on certain chapters..which you can read it all at once or as a daily devotion) but the next chapter conveniently was on the very subject I just discovered I was struggling with. So I pressed on. This book is for anyone,disabled or not,it gives you tools for deeping your spiritual walk and facing issues we may not even realize we had. I'm thankful the author has shared her journey, life stories and lessons learned in this book! I recommend anyone to read it! There's many little golden nuggets of wisdom, scriptures to remind us of God's word, love and promises that's I've highlighted for futurereference as well as prayers at the end of each chapter that I've bookmarked. This is definitely a book you can go back to more than once. I also like that I found common interests and dreams with the that I have also.
May 25, 2020
Cerebral Palsy is a condition present from birth that results in involuntary muscle movements and a reduction in muscular control and strength. Lucy Goncalves has never prayed not to have cerebral palsy, yet she cannot speak clearly, nor walk, and she requires assistance with activities of daily living.
We live in a fast-paced world of atheism, of cynicism, and of despair. If we are to save our world, we feel we must act. Lucy Goncalves can’t ‘maintain the pace that society demands’ and from the perspective of her wheelchair has learned that our conception of time is flawed. ‘Come take a few moments to rest in the Spirit. Let God help you untangle the cord of stress wrapped around your spirit.’
Yet, this is not all Lucy has learned. Able Soul is the story of her growth in the knowledge of the Lord and in the work of the Holy Spirit: love, yes, but also forgiveness. It is in part because of what Lucy has had to forgive that the book reads like an autobiography. It is a spiritual book but there is, intertwined in the message, a story of great human interest.
I asked myself how a woman can narrate peacefully and without rancour events that were often shocking. It is clear (and Lucy explains this) that she has undergone emotional healing and that it was a long term process only achievable through God’s grace. ‘I was no longer a prisoner of past hurts, but instead I was a captive of holy grace, free to love.’
Lucy makes analogies between cerebral palsy, a physical disability, and the spiritual disability we suffer from when ‘we put prayer on the back burner’, ‘when we get overwhelmed with unsettling world events’, when we ‘fall into helplessness and complacency.’
Lucy has exposed her soul in all its vulnerability. ‘I felt like my soul was dying. I couldn’t get out of the cage of people’s preconceived ideas of my limitations.’ She points the way through periods of despair to becoming a complete person because of Christ. ‘I was letting go of my desire to be in control, acknowledging my dependence on God.’
Able Soul is a call to take time to pray, an invitation to the Holy Spirit. The writing style is personal. It does not follow a particular culture and, therefore, is accessible to all.
We live in a fast-paced world of atheism, of cynicism, and of despair. If we are to save our world, we feel we must act. Lucy Goncalves can’t ‘maintain the pace that society demands’ and from the perspective of her wheelchair has learned that our conception of time is flawed. ‘Come take a few moments to rest in the Spirit. Let God help you untangle the cord of stress wrapped around your spirit.’
Yet, this is not all Lucy has learned. Able Soul is the story of her growth in the knowledge of the Lord and in the work of the Holy Spirit: love, yes, but also forgiveness. It is in part because of what Lucy has had to forgive that the book reads like an autobiography. It is a spiritual book but there is, intertwined in the message, a story of great human interest.
I asked myself how a woman can narrate peacefully and without rancour events that were often shocking. It is clear (and Lucy explains this) that she has undergone emotional healing and that it was a long term process only achievable through God’s grace. ‘I was no longer a prisoner of past hurts, but instead I was a captive of holy grace, free to love.’
Lucy makes analogies between cerebral palsy, a physical disability, and the spiritual disability we suffer from when ‘we put prayer on the back burner’, ‘when we get overwhelmed with unsettling world events’, when we ‘fall into helplessness and complacency.’
Lucy has exposed her soul in all its vulnerability. ‘I felt like my soul was dying. I couldn’t get out of the cage of people’s preconceived ideas of my limitations.’ She points the way through periods of despair to becoming a complete person because of Christ. ‘I was letting go of my desire to be in control, acknowledging my dependence on God.’
Able Soul is a call to take time to pray, an invitation to the Holy Spirit. The writing style is personal. It does not follow a particular culture and, therefore, is accessible to all.
July 12, 2020
A few weeks ago I was the lucky winner of a giveaway on Instagram where I received a copy of Able Soul: Empowering God's Spirit Within by Lucy Goncalves. Goncalves shares her personal testimony of how trusting God has lead to opportunities that otherwise would have been impossible. Living with Cerebal Palsey (CP), Goncalves has struggled not only with a physical disability, but of being pre-judged by others, and often feeling like she had no voice. Yet, through listening to God's guidance, Goncalves has created an uplifting and encouraging book that will aid readers no matter what season of life they are in. Praise be to God for Goncalves and her testimony - this book has truly been a blessing in my life.
The book contains twenty-one anecdotal stories complete with a spiritual lesson, inspirational Bible verses, and a prayer. "Prayer is the Breath of Life for Our Souls," spoke to me right at the beginning of me delving into the book. Goncalves writes, "Prayer is essential to our well-being and to the goodness of God that we need to access in order to serve humanity." In a later story, "Hunger to Serve," Goncalves explains how serving, loving, and supporting others allows us one to become a vessel of the Holy Spirit. I loved Goncalves lessons, and I took time to reflect on my own acts of service. I want to do more in my daily life to serve and empower others.
Reading through the stories, I was inspired by Goncalves' positive attitude and her relationship with God. She has overcome so much (aside from her physical disability), and her words encouraged me to reflect on my own personal relationship with God. In addition to wanting to do more acts of service in my daily life, I want to take more time to pray. I also want to be more positive, more forgiving, and more open to acknowledging God's blessings in my life.
Overall, Able Soul encourages one to grow their relationship with God, and teaches the reader that with God all things are possible. I rate this book 5/5 stars, and I recommend everyone, no matter where you are in your spiritual journey with Christ, to pick up this book today!
The book contains twenty-one anecdotal stories complete with a spiritual lesson, inspirational Bible verses, and a prayer. "Prayer is the Breath of Life for Our Souls," spoke to me right at the beginning of me delving into the book. Goncalves writes, "Prayer is essential to our well-being and to the goodness of God that we need to access in order to serve humanity." In a later story, "Hunger to Serve," Goncalves explains how serving, loving, and supporting others allows us one to become a vessel of the Holy Spirit. I loved Goncalves lessons, and I took time to reflect on my own acts of service. I want to do more in my daily life to serve and empower others.
Reading through the stories, I was inspired by Goncalves' positive attitude and her relationship with God. She has overcome so much (aside from her physical disability), and her words encouraged me to reflect on my own personal relationship with God. In addition to wanting to do more acts of service in my daily life, I want to take more time to pray. I also want to be more positive, more forgiving, and more open to acknowledging God's blessings in my life.
Overall, Able Soul encourages one to grow their relationship with God, and teaches the reader that with God all things are possible. I rate this book 5/5 stars, and I recommend everyone, no matter where you are in your spiritual journey with Christ, to pick up this book today!
June 4, 2020
Please permit me to state up front that I have tried to review this book objectively and honestly, although a great deal of subjectivity may have slipped in. First of all, I’m the proud parent of two special needs stepchildren who are now in their adulthood. My stepdaughter, like Lucy, suffers from CP, so I have known personally of what she has gone through and is going through. In fact, Lucy and my stepdaughter are fairly close in age. My stepson is hearing impaired and learning delayed. The second thing that might impact the objectivity of this review is that, like Lucy, I’m a Christian.
Although Lucy quote Scriptures from Bible translations that I wasn’t familiar with (I’m a dyed in the wool King James adherent) her interpretation and application of those Scriptures is right on the money. God has definitely blessed Lucy with the gift of writing. The way she uses the tangible things of this world to illustrate and explain the intangible, the spiritual, is a work of the Holy Spirit.
Throughout this exceptional book, Lucy’s prayers at the end of each chapter is evidence of what a true prayer should be, a personal conversation with God. Her prayers are those of a loyal prayer warrior and beautiful examples of how we all should be praying. One could look at this book as being a topical study on the power of prayer.
No one will read this book without seeing themselves in the narrative. The trials and tribulations that we have faced in life may have been different from the ones Lucy faced but they were just as hindering to us physically, emotionally and spiritually. For many of us, God used those things to bring us to the foot of the cross with the realization that no one but Jesus could enable us to overcome those impediments.
This book should be an inspiration for every Christian who wants to develop a stronger, more meaningful, prayer life! Thank you, Lucy, for sharing your story with us.
Although Lucy quote Scriptures from Bible translations that I wasn’t familiar with (I’m a dyed in the wool King James adherent) her interpretation and application of those Scriptures is right on the money. God has definitely blessed Lucy with the gift of writing. The way she uses the tangible things of this world to illustrate and explain the intangible, the spiritual, is a work of the Holy Spirit.
Throughout this exceptional book, Lucy’s prayers at the end of each chapter is evidence of what a true prayer should be, a personal conversation with God. Her prayers are those of a loyal prayer warrior and beautiful examples of how we all should be praying. One could look at this book as being a topical study on the power of prayer.
No one will read this book without seeing themselves in the narrative. The trials and tribulations that we have faced in life may have been different from the ones Lucy faced but they were just as hindering to us physically, emotionally and spiritually. For many of us, God used those things to bring us to the foot of the cross with the realization that no one but Jesus could enable us to overcome those impediments.
This book should be an inspiration for every Christian who wants to develop a stronger, more meaningful, prayer life! Thank you, Lucy, for sharing your story with us.
December 12, 2020
I read this book a few months ago now, but it has stayed with me on many levels since.
Ms. Goncalves has put together a beautiful book that serves many purposes for reader. It is written in fairly simple language so it is suitable and accessible for any reading level.
Some of what you will find in the book: (1) The story of Ms. Goncalves, who has Cerebral Palsy, which is educational (I knew very little about CP), heart wrenching, surprising and inspirational. (2) The book is filled with beautiful Biblical Quotations which are perfect reflections on each passage in which it is contained and are a joy to read, even on their own. The scripture choice is brilliant. (3) Each section is closed with a prayer which I found very convicting and a great fit for my own walk. (4) There is more... there is also a reflection point at the conclusion of each chapter that is woven from the sentiment of the idea the section discussed. (5) The themes discussed are relevant. I liked the 'double entendre' of "God is Always Accessible" that is, to all of us at any time and also to those of us that may have extra challenges and have accessibility issues. Another favourite theme is the value of Reliance- I had to learn that one in life!
I read a section each night and it helped me with my personal "optimism scale" as Ms. Goncalves has such a sunny outlook on life. I need that right now with all that is going on in the world! It was a joy to read this book and to get to know the writer.
Ms. Goncalves has put together a beautiful book that serves many purposes for reader. It is written in fairly simple language so it is suitable and accessible for any reading level.
Some of what you will find in the book: (1) The story of Ms. Goncalves, who has Cerebral Palsy, which is educational (I knew very little about CP), heart wrenching, surprising and inspirational. (2) The book is filled with beautiful Biblical Quotations which are perfect reflections on each passage in which it is contained and are a joy to read, even on their own. The scripture choice is brilliant. (3) Each section is closed with a prayer which I found very convicting and a great fit for my own walk. (4) There is more... there is also a reflection point at the conclusion of each chapter that is woven from the sentiment of the idea the section discussed. (5) The themes discussed are relevant. I liked the 'double entendre' of "God is Always Accessible" that is, to all of us at any time and also to those of us that may have extra challenges and have accessibility issues. Another favourite theme is the value of Reliance- I had to learn that one in life!
I read a section each night and it helped me with my personal "optimism scale" as Ms. Goncalves has such a sunny outlook on life. I need that right now with all that is going on in the world! It was a joy to read this book and to get to know the writer.
April 14, 2022
I loved reading the intro where we are greeted by the author. I’m so impressed by her outlook on life and all the things she has accomplished. She says she has a disability but it has never stopped her from doing anything. I can learn a lot from her joy and adventurous spirit. This is one devotional that penetrated my heart with truth, encouragement and God’s love.
Each chapter has a topic that the author uses as a tool in her everyday life. Prayer is very important and having her explain that prayer is like oxygen that helps us to take a deep breath of the Holy Spirit is inspiring. It is refreshing and brings new vision to us as we allow God to direct our path. The second chapter was the one I liked the most. It talks about hiding from people or God when we are ashamed of our actions or appearance. I love how she laughs at herself and still finds words to encourage us. We can build up walls around us which prevents us from hearing from God. Let’s tear those walls down and open our heart to the Word of God.
With each chapter there is a prayer that follows as well as scripture. What a well written book that is organized and really helped me get through some struggles I am having. I can imagine hearing the author speak at a church or conference and feel her compassion for life and God. It is nice to be reminded that “we can do all things through God who strengths us,” (Philippians 4:13]
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Each chapter has a topic that the author uses as a tool in her everyday life. Prayer is very important and having her explain that prayer is like oxygen that helps us to take a deep breath of the Holy Spirit is inspiring. It is refreshing and brings new vision to us as we allow God to direct our path. The second chapter was the one I liked the most. It talks about hiding from people or God when we are ashamed of our actions or appearance. I love how she laughs at herself and still finds words to encourage us. We can build up walls around us which prevents us from hearing from God. Let’s tear those walls down and open our heart to the Word of God.
With each chapter there is a prayer that follows as well as scripture. What a well written book that is organized and really helped me get through some struggles I am having. I can imagine hearing the author speak at a church or conference and feel her compassion for life and God. It is nice to be reminded that “we can do all things through God who strengths us,” (Philippians 4:13]
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
April 11, 2022
Able Soul by Lucy Goncalves is a fantastic read. Lucy did an excellent job of taking the reader on a journey that highlighted her struggles but in a way that makes you think differently. One thing that grabbed hold of me was how she embraced her struggles and did not blame God for them.
As Lucy shared the events in her life, I found myself going through many emotions. One emotion I did not expect to experience in reading a book of this nature was laughter. Lucy has such a gift for storytelling that I laughed along with her on several occasions.
The biggest takeaway from reading Able Soul was that Lucy never let anything stop her. If she set her mind on something, she figured out how to make it happen even when that seemed impossible. Reading her words reminded me that I can live out my dreams as long as I keep God at the center. He is the God of possible!
If you are interested in reading a memoir that is also motivational, you will want to check out Able Soul. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Note: I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for sharing my thoughts. I am disclosing this per FTC regulations.
As Lucy shared the events in her life, I found myself going through many emotions. One emotion I did not expect to experience in reading a book of this nature was laughter. Lucy has such a gift for storytelling that I laughed along with her on several occasions.
The biggest takeaway from reading Able Soul was that Lucy never let anything stop her. If she set her mind on something, she figured out how to make it happen even when that seemed impossible. Reading her words reminded me that I can live out my dreams as long as I keep God at the center. He is the God of possible!
If you are interested in reading a memoir that is also motivational, you will want to check out Able Soul. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Note: I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for sharing my thoughts. I am disclosing this per FTC regulations.
May 11, 2021
I admit I never really thought about what it is like to have a disability. I'm glad there are books like this one that show us! I imagine it would be easy to blame your Creator for making you imperfect, but Lucy Goncalves has a different attitude. After all, we are all imperfect in our own way.
Here are the things I liked about the book:
*I liked the personal stories.
*I liked the Bible verses sprinkled in at just the right moments.
*She gives a clear picture of what it's like living with a disability. I think it's important for us able-bodied people to understand so we will be more caring and compassionate.
*I thought the questions she asked her readers were good at getting us thinking, thereby having us participate instead of just read.
*A prayer is included at the end of each chapter, which is good for those of us who aren't sure what to pray for.
*This is a good book to read every morning. It helps you move into your day with a good attitude and focus. It reminds you of things you should keep in mind, like opportunities to serve and to help those less fortunate than yourself.
Here are the things I liked about the book:
*I liked the personal stories.
*I liked the Bible verses sprinkled in at just the right moments.
*She gives a clear picture of what it's like living with a disability. I think it's important for us able-bodied people to understand so we will be more caring and compassionate.
*I thought the questions she asked her readers were good at getting us thinking, thereby having us participate instead of just read.
*A prayer is included at the end of each chapter, which is good for those of us who aren't sure what to pray for.
*This is a good book to read every morning. It helps you move into your day with a good attitude and focus. It reminds you of things you should keep in mind, like opportunities to serve and to help those less fortunate than yourself.
May 17, 2022
Okay. So. I have to start this with the fact that I am very familiar with cerebral palsy. In fact, I’m intimately familiar with it. My two older brothers are twins and they both suffer from cerebral palsy most likely also caused by lack of oxygen at birth.
I know the struggle my brothers have faced and the impact it has had on their spirits and souls through the years plus how they have been received and treated by other people. It’s really sad and I take comfort in knowing at least the next generation I am raising have compassion and hearts for people who are different.
Now, for the book. I really enjoyed this read. It read well and pulled at your heartstrings while also making you want to cheer and shout at parts. I highly recommend you give it a read.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I know the struggle my brothers have faced and the impact it has had on their spirits and souls through the years plus how they have been received and treated by other people. It’s really sad and I take comfort in knowing at least the next generation I am raising have compassion and hearts for people who are different.
Now, for the book. I really enjoyed this read. It read well and pulled at your heartstrings while also making you want to cheer and shout at parts. I highly recommend you give it a read.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
April 15, 2022
I really liked and gained powerful insights reading "Able Soul" by Lucy Goncalves. This book has made a really big impact on me so I am doing my own giveaway.
The book is so inspiring to me. I found something I wanted to unlined and apply to my life on every page. This book deals with prayer, communication, forgiveness and dreams(not sleeping) and every day life and spending time with the Lord and more.
I love the author’s humor, she wrote that she never wish she didn’t have CP because it got her at of having to wash dishes.
The book is only a little over 100 pages.
The prayers are so personal and written by the author and yes I am going to pray these prayers myself and the Scriptures that are written are ones I am going to read everyday. The time to reflect really makes you think.
I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
The book is so inspiring to me. I found something I wanted to unlined and apply to my life on every page. This book deals with prayer, communication, forgiveness and dreams(not sleeping) and every day life and spending time with the Lord and more.
I love the author’s humor, she wrote that she never wish she didn’t have CP because it got her at of having to wash dishes.
The book is only a little over 100 pages.
The prayers are so personal and written by the author and yes I am going to pray these prayers myself and the Scriptures that are written are ones I am going to read everyday. The time to reflect really makes you think.
I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
March 14, 2022
Able Soul: Empowering God's Spirit Within is a powerful book to read. Lucy Goncalves tells about her cerebral palsy and how she was able to overcome her personal experiences. This is a beautiful book of faith, hope and love. I loved every single word. It was a great book to read. She shows that we should all show more kindness in this world.
I am giving Able Soul: Empowering God's Spirit Within a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading empowering books from those who chose to live life fully no matter their circumstances. I would love to read more by Lucy Goncalves in the near future. She is such an inspiration.
I received a digital copy of Able Soul: Empowering God's Spirit Within from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Able Soul: Empowering God's Spirit Within a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading empowering books from those who chose to live life fully no matter their circumstances. I would love to read more by Lucy Goncalves in the near future. She is such an inspiration.
I received a digital copy of Able Soul: Empowering God's Spirit Within from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
April 18, 2022
Able Soul is a devotion that is written by Lucy Goncalves. I always enjoy devotions, because I feel like I am sent them to review at the right times. God always speaks to me through the devotions. God spoke loud and clear while going through this devotion. We can always continuously grow with the Holy Spirit.
The author does a great job of using personal experiences and Biblical Truth to unpack the topics. The verses sprinkled into the topics fit well. I love her story - how learning to grow in her relationship and being able to use her limitations for God's Kingdom.
I hope to see more from the author - I know that I drew in closer to the Lord while going through this devotion. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
The author does a great job of using personal experiences and Biblical Truth to unpack the topics. The verses sprinkled into the topics fit well. I love her story - how learning to grow in her relationship and being able to use her limitations for God's Kingdom.
I hope to see more from the author - I know that I drew in closer to the Lord while going through this devotion. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
April 25, 2022
"Able Soul" by Lucy Goncalves is a strikingly honest, deeply inspirational account of God's amazing grace and love. With great wisdom, Lucy draws the most insightful analogies from the myriad challenges and sweet triumphs of her own life, as she overcame the set-backs of living with cerebral palsy. "Able Soul" is a wake-up call to the world. This inspiring book reveals a different way of thinking and living, one that human society desperately needs today. True to its name, Able Soul empowers God's Spirit within. God gave Lucy His grace and unconditional love to endure the challenging and difficult times. This book, birthed from prayer, will encourage us to have a deeper connection with God, the Holy Spirit, in our daily life. It proves that we can live in awareness of God at every moment. I highly recommend this awesome book for a deeper walk with God.
July 9, 2020
This is a beautiful book. The author's honesty is refreshing and the comfort she draws from a vibrant relationship with her loving God is inspiring. Goncalves writes about day to day reality in a way that anyone who struggles with a disability will find relatable, using these stories to pull readers into deeper spiritual reflections at the close of each chapter.
I particularly liked this paragraph - it showcases the voice and heart of the author:
He never forgets the simple, seemingly unimportant desires of our hearts.
It may take months or even years for God to fulfill our hearts’ desires
but he does it in such a magnificent and poignant way that it’s worth
waiting for. Trust that God knows your heart and will eventually answer your call.
I particularly liked this paragraph - it showcases the voice and heart of the author:
He never forgets the simple, seemingly unimportant desires of our hearts.
It may take months or even years for God to fulfill our hearts’ desires
but he does it in such a magnificent and poignant way that it’s worth
waiting for. Trust that God knows your heart and will eventually answer your call.
April 13, 2022
I absolutely loved reading this devotional. The chapters are short, but each one still tells Lucy's story in a beautiful way, while also giving an uplifting message. And it was all so beautiful.
I am struck by Lucy's faith. She's had a hard past and has to maneuver through a world that was not built for people who live with disabilities. And yet, she is so encouraged, her faith is so pure, and she just wants to live for God and others.
I would highly encourage you to read this devotional. Lucy has so much wisdom and love to share to the world. And her prayers at the end of each chapter are so life-giving. It will definitely encourage you and give you hope.
I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
I am struck by Lucy's faith. She's had a hard past and has to maneuver through a world that was not built for people who live with disabilities. And yet, she is so encouraged, her faith is so pure, and she just wants to live for God and others.
I would highly encourage you to read this devotional. Lucy has so much wisdom and love to share to the world. And her prayers at the end of each chapter are so life-giving. It will definitely encourage you and give you hope.
I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
April 24, 2022
This is an uplifting and touching book on several levels. While whoever is reading the book likely won’t have the same issues as the author, it is completely relatable. I think anyone could relate or put themselves in a similar or at least similar feeling position.
Her outlook is wonderful and I just really think this is a book that will stay with me. There is a lot in there that is just great. So much she’s gone through and God is so good. I just think everyone should pick this up and read it and you will be touched.
5/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of the book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Her outlook is wonderful and I just really think this is a book that will stay with me. There is a lot in there that is just great. So much she’s gone through and God is so good. I just think everyone should pick this up and read it and you will be touched.
5/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of the book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
April 26, 2022
Containing personal stories about her life along with prayers and Scriptures, this book chronicles Lucy Goncalves’ life with Cerebral Palsy after being deprived of oxygen at birth. The author demonstrates how God will walk with us regardless of circumstances.
Whether you want to do an in-depth study or read through it alone, this devotional provides a glimpse into how God wants to lift us up regardless of circumstances. Each chapter illustrates how God and the Holy Spirit walk with us. I recommend taking time to read and ponder each chapter. I definitely found God’s power, love, and Grace in this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Whether you want to do an in-depth study or read through it alone, this devotional provides a glimpse into how God wants to lift us up regardless of circumstances. Each chapter illustrates how God and the Holy Spirit walk with us. I recommend taking time to read and ponder each chapter. I definitely found God’s power, love, and Grace in this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
June 11, 2021
Award winning devotional book
I love, love, love Able Soul: Empowering God’s Spirit Within, by Lucy Goncalves! This is a devotional book worth sharing far and wide! It is both empowering and fascinating as Lucy humbly, beautifully, and powerfully shares how God has held her hand as we all hope for in our own daily lives. Her keen insights into faith are empowered by her life-long cerebral palsy. Honestly, as you read the pages you may feel like you’ve walked into the life of a saint—and one who graciously wants to bring us along for a deeper walk with God. I recommend this book to anyone who wants this walk with a more tender soul.
December 28, 2021
Able Soul Empowering God's Spirit Within by Lucy Goncalves is a book, which is difficult to describe. Reading such a beautiful, full of emotions book is absolutely charging. It is fascinating how open the author Lucy Goncalves is by sharing her very intimate reflections and prayers with the readers. A refreshing and inspiring read!
January 22, 2021
Lovely. Laughable. Illuminating.
I enjoyed this book. I read it as a devotional, one chapter a day. I thought on it during the day. Later i revisited its pages, although electronic, in the evening. Able Soul is a breath of fresh air, with a splash of truth and a little honey.
I enjoyed this book. I read it as a devotional, one chapter a day. I thought on it during the day. Later i revisited its pages, although electronic, in the evening. Able Soul is a breath of fresh air, with a splash of truth and a little honey.
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