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A Greater Story: My Rescue, Your Purpose, and Our Place in God's Plan

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"This is an incredible story!"--Steve HarveyEach of us is living a story--the story of our life. For Sam Collier, his story started with rejection, because when he and his twin sister were born, their biological mother gave them up for adoption. Through the many obstacles and challenges throughout Sam's life, God would prove to him that in spite of the opposition, he was truly writing a story Sam could never have written in his own strength. In this deeply personal yet remarkably universal book, Sam Collier tells his inspiring story of abandonment, sacrifice, gratitude, and rescue, revealing how God is always doing something bigger and better than we might imagine. That he has a purpose and a plan for every single one of us. That he is always telling his greater story through our trials, our relationships, and our triumphs.If you're in the middle of a challenging time and long to know that God is working through it, Sam's story will teach you how to see the big picture, even when there are pieces missing.

196 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 4, 2020

34 people are currently reading
875 people want to read

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Sam Collier

2 books5 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Janelle.
4 reviews
December 18, 2025
Sam Colliers story is inspiring and a gentle reminder to give all your thoughts and worries to God. I love the emphasis on trusting Gods plan for your life even if you don’t understand it initially.

Sam said, “The greatest decision you could ever make in life is to become who you already are.” Also, “Maybe our lives truly do begin to click when we align with what’s already been designed.” In other words, it’s time to step into our calling and purpose in this thing called life!
Profile Image for Shannan Harper.
2,461 reviews28 followers
August 29, 2020
This book is good for everyone to read. One man describes his life's journey, from being given up along with his twin sister as they were babies, to navigating life with their adoptive parents and finding his life's purpose. The book was very informative, full of God's word and extremely encouraging. This is definitely going up as one of my top yearly reads.

I received a copy of this book via netgalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Ricardo L. Walker.
163 reviews15 followers
August 5, 2020
I had the privilege of reading a pre-release copy. Honest review? Good but the story outpaces the writing. Caveat: How a story is written is as important to the details of the story.
The pieces of Sam's story are beautiful. The intent of the book admirable. The testimony of redemption and overcoming obstacles make this well worth the read. I wish I could edit this book. It could go from a 3 to a 5. The chronology, the artistic/descriptive passages that attempt to be "literature" just don't work. I have heard Sam preach. I wish he had written like he talks. I wish there was less unconscious focus on the career success as proof of blessing. I think that how fruits is more important than positions gets lost in the telling of redemption because one agenda is to show that twin crack orphans can become successful. Still, the details of his life are inspiring. Family, overlap with MLK's family, bridge-building in racial reconciliation all make it well worth reading. His faith ties it all together.
Profile Image for Cat.
27 reviews
March 21, 2025
Book Review: A Greater Story: My Rescue, Your Purpose, and Our Place in God’s Plan by Donald Miller

Donald Miller’s A Greater Story is a thoughtful, deeply personal exploration of faith, redemption, and the importance of understanding our lives within the larger narrative of God’s purpose. Known for his bestselling book Blue Like Jazz, Miller’s latest offering continues his trend of blending candid storytelling with theological insights, creating a narrative that feels both intimate and universally relevant.

The book begins with Miller recounting his own journey of faith, detailing the struggles and personal crises that led him to a deeper understanding of God’s plan for his life. He weaves in his experience of feeling lost and disconnected, only to realize that God’s plan for humanity is far greater than just individual salvation—it’s about the grand story of redemption that involves all of us.

What sets A Greater Story apart from other faith-based books is its accessibility. Miller doesn’t preach from a pulpit; instead, he invites readers into a conversation. His tone is conversational, even vulnerable, which makes it easy to relate to his journey. Through his personal anecdotes, Miller shows that redemption isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience, but a unique process that aligns with each person’s own life story, however messy or imperfect it may seem.

At the heart of the book is the idea that every person has a role in God’s greater story. It’s easy to feel insignificant in a world that often prioritizes self-sufficiency and individual success. However, Miller argues that when we understand our lives within the larger context of God’s plan, we can find a greater sense of purpose and meaning. He encourages readers to look beyond their immediate circumstances and challenges to see how their story intersects with the divine narrative of love, sacrifice, and redemption.

One of the strengths of A Greater Story is Miller’s ability to convey deep spiritual truths without being overly theological. For readers who may not have a deep background in religious studies, the book is approachable and understandable. He uses relatable metaphors and storytelling to illustrate complex ideas about faith, purpose, and God’s involvement in our lives.

However, while the book is full of inspiration, there are moments when the narrative feels a bit repetitive. Miller often circles back to the same core message about purpose and divine intention, which, while valuable, can become a little tedious for some readers. Additionally, while Miller’s vulnerability and openness are admirable, there are times when the personal anecdotes may seem overly focused on his individual experience, which could detract from the broader themes for some.

Overall, A Greater Story is an insightful, thought-provoking book that encourages readers to reframe their lives within the larger context of God’s greater narrative. It’s a compelling invitation to find meaning and purpose, not through individual achievement but through the understanding that we are all part of something much bigger than ourselves. Whether you’re a longtime believer or someone just beginning to explore faith, Miller’s book offers a fresh perspective on how to find your place in God’s story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Dick.
421 reviews5 followers
December 13, 2021
Greater Story by Sam Collier was a gift from my daughter Carey.

Thank you, Carey!

It took me awhile to read the book – I get a lot of books for birthdays and at Christmas as well as falling prey to buying books on my own.

It is a terrific book. Each of us has his or her own story. It is the story of our life to this day and in retrospect - if we look and are honest - we can see God guiding and managing it all the way. living a story--the story of our life. I have even written a short paper on my life entitled "My Story, His Plan & Hope"

Sam Collier – with his own story – has a colorful background, life and clearly is letting God take the lead in where he goes. It may not be the way he might have thought, but every experience, good and bad, are used by God. Where he thought his life’s work would take him is not necessarily where God had in mind. With God’s help, Sam has met and overcome a lot.

Makes most of my challenges – so far –look pretty easy.

And yet I can see my own story having rolled out way different than I would have expected, looking back. My mistakes and yes my victories have all been used by God to make me a better person and better Christian example.

A broken marriage – largely my fault – led to considerable soul searching and admitting a lot about myself. I think I cleaned up my act a lot, but still have work to do. I am a better partner now.

The experience of divorce made me far more empathetic toward others dealing with the trauma of separation and divorce. My wife Shari and I led a divorce recovery program for some 9 years and our own personal experiences allowed us to readily relate to those poor souls in our family room struggling and so emotional, telling their stories.

If you're in the middle of a challenging time and long to know that God is working through it, Sam's story will help see the big picture, even when there are pieces missing.

I am right there with Sam in this regard. It is often not about marriage, but health or finances and trusting in Him to see you through. That done, you are then far better equipped to walk with someone in the future with health, financial or marriage challenges, because you have been there. And they know that you can relate.

If you're in the middle of a challenging time and long to know that God is working through it, Sam's story will teach you how to see the big picture, even when there are pieces missing.

God's Peace . . .
Profile Image for Jan.
1,229 reviews
July 11, 2022

This is an inspiring story of Sam Collier, who was adopted along with his sister Sara into a lively well-adjusted family. Their adoptive father decided they should try to find their birth parents and asked Steve Henry, the TV mogul to help. The book kicks off the story of their meeting on the tv set, which you can find on you tube. The rest of the book past the introduction is divided into two parts. 1. You here and now and 2. By God’s amazing Grace. This is not a story of finding his purpose the easy way as many biographies purport to be. He meets time and time again road blocks, detours, and personal crisis that are not fully resolved. In the life or being part of church ministries and music groups, many people are there to talk like they have all the answers but they do not. His list of ministries and mentors is long and you might be able to recognize many of them.
Starting out as an abandoned black child, is the hardest of all beginnings, so you can imagine life was more than ups and downs as he considers the rest of his late teens and his rescue, and his purpose as part of God’s plan for him. He is still struggling with his path and how to best serve the Lord. I goggled him since 2020 and his struggle is not over. He is a very attractive, articulate man with lots of musical, and speaking and leadership talents. His book is heart breaking on many levels but God’s plan and our insistence that it got our way is never easy.
God’s leadership is apparent all the way. His book allows you to reflection on the stages of your life. Each chapter starts with an excellent quote to set the mood for what follows. The part I enjoyed most which made this life story stand out was the use of personal reflections for you to consider at the end of each small chapter. I wouldn’t say it was the best biography I have ever read, but honest it is, and trusting in God is apparent in this pastor's life.




132 reviews
August 3, 2020
I had the privilege of reading a pre-release copy of this book.

The two great themes in this book that resonated with me were family and destiny.

I was brought up with the idea that “family takes care of family.” The author observes that “‘Family'” doesn’t always mean ‘blood'” and recalls his and his sister’s introduction to their adoptive parents - “Everything is gonna be okay. You are one of us now.”

The belief that we are born with a purpose is pervasive. Actually doing something about that belief is the trick that so few seem to get, despite all the volumes written and speeches given on the topic. We brought our children up to do two things: find out who God made you to be and what God made you to do; then be that person and do those things.

The author exemplifies our common struggle with the pursuit of dreams by sharing his early determination to follow in Michael Jordan’s footsteps with a career in basketball - despite his small physical size. His mother had other ideas and steered him into music where he dreamed of signing a record contract. But God had another idea as He directed Sam’s steps to accept a portion as youth choir director, where he was introduce (unwittingly) to MLK’s niece - who was so impressed with his skill and dedication teaching her daughter that she invited him on tour with her family!

"For one reason or another, God has decided to take us low before going high. We find our way in the pasture, the alleyway, the back of the room. While many of us know this is true, we still tend to fight it. Our ambition or desire to be great often blinds us from the beauty of staying low. Humility is God’s weapon of choice for sculpting his greatest vessels.”

Highly recommended for all believers, readers and seekers.
1 review
August 4, 2020
I was fortunate to receive an early copy of “A Greater Story.” Sam Collier’s book is timely and touching. I genuinely enjoyed learning about Collier’s experiences, but, like the title suggests, this book is much more than a retelling of the author’s life. We all come from different backgrounds and circumstances, and God is writing “A Greater Story” in each of us. The greatness of God’s story shines through Sam Collier’s life, and the author gives God all the glory.

Thought provoking, humorous and practical, “A Greater Story” takes the reader through topics including adoption, wayward teen years, dreams for the future vs. calling, the importance of family, race and redemption, among others. One feature I enjoyed was the reflection questions at the conclusion of sections, as these were helpful to make one pause and contemplate. I found this feature added an almost journal or study aspect to the reading experience, which I liked. While I enjoyed the book as an adult, I also think this book would be an excellent read for high school students and am recommending it as an addition to my children’s school leadership reading list.
2 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2020
Sam’s story of hope and redemption is one that we all need right now, and it is no accident it is being released in the middle of 2020. Sam’s authentic and vulnerable account of his life journey, from abandoned to adopted to repurposed to a greater story that only God can write will not only inspire you but will also draw you in to reconsider your own purpose and how it ties into God’s greater story. I outlined almost all of the second half of this book and have since gone back and wrote out my own story of surrender and freedom. I can personally attest to all that Sam has experienced: surrendering to God’s story for your life is the most freeing, exhilarating and purpose-filled thing you can imagine. This is a must read for everyone, young and old!
Profile Image for Isaac Denton.
55 reviews
August 4, 2020
I had the privilege of getting a copy of Sam’s book early and it was so timely. God is continually writing all of our stories and Sam champions how we all need to lean into. His perspective on all that God has done in his life is incredible. His storytelling is amazing and compelling. He is thankful to all those who have impacted his life on a number of levels. This book is heartwarming, inspiring, and encouraging. In the midst of a wild year, this book is timely in helping us all to see that no matter what our circumstances are, God is writing a greater story.
It is also challenging as a husband, parent, foster parent, part of a family who has adopted siblings, to be reminded of the part you play in other’s stories.
Profile Image for Debra Southern.
110 reviews5 followers
August 4, 2020
I haven't quite finished this book, but I can say it's a good one to get. I think anyone between the ages of 16 through 50 will benefit from reading his story. The things that he goes through and the lessens he learns, relates more to this age period.
Sam reveals what it's like to live knowing him and twin sister's birth wasn't wanted, They were abandoned at birth by their biological mother. But God knew in His infinite planning just where Sam and his sister would fit in. God starts with their adoption to a wonderful white couple, who despite the adoption agency objections (because of their parents drug background) wanted them. And in every yea and nay Sam experience after this, he finds God is always with him. I enjoyed reading his story.
Profile Image for Debra Southern.
110 reviews5 followers
August 4, 2020
I haven't quite finished this book, but I can say it's a good one to get. I think anyone between the ages of 16 through 50 will benefit from reading his story. The things that he goes through and the lessens he learns, relates more to this age period.
Sam reveals what it's like to live knowing him and twin sister's birth wasn't wanted, They were abandoned at birth by their biological mother. But God knew in His infinite planning just where Sam and his sister would fit in. God starts with their adoption to a wonderful white couple, who despite the adoption agency objections (because of their parents drug background) wanted them. And in every yea and nay Sam experience after this, he finds God is always with him. I enjoyed reading his story.
Profile Image for Becky.
82 reviews
December 15, 2024
A Greater Story encourages the reader to surrender the battles we incur when we try to create our own story instead of following the plan God has for each of us. The author uses his own story of trying to make it in the music industry and encountering many roadblocks before finally discovering the story God wants him to live as a minister. To me, the story seemed more about the author’s success in overcoming obstacles and church building than about God using him to grow the church. Perhaps that is more from the writing than the actual story. It is encouraging to read about Sam’s overcoming obstacles of being given up for adoption, recognizing sin in his life and living a life that has a positive impact on people.
Profile Image for Hayley.
212 reviews
August 8, 2020
I had first heard a bit about Sam after catching a clip of him on the Steve Harvey show, so when I saw this book was coming out I was instantly intrigued. I loved the breakdown of his life; how he ended up being adopted, the story of his family, and how everything has unfolded. Sam is an amazing story teller and while sharing his own story this book connects the reader to look at things in their own life. This book will be so beneficial to anyone looking for their own greater story and how they can attain just that through faith and perseverance. I received an advanced copy from the publisher and Netgalley and these are my own thoughts and opinions.
8 reviews1 follower
August 1, 2020
I had the privilege of getting an early copy of Sam’s book, A Greater Story...and I am so glad I did. Sam Collier is an amazing storyteller. Reading his words felt like hanging out with a good friend...a good dose of humor, Grace and truth. Sam is masterful at walking you through the story of his life but still making it applicable to you. If you are trying to figure out which way is up, what’s next or just in need of some encouragement this is the book for you. After all when your story connects with God’s story it leads to A Greater Story!
15 reviews
August 5, 2020
A Greater Story is part memoir, part inspiration, part personal reflection, and all God-focused. Every word Sam Collier writes points you to God and His greater story. Every illustration Sam makes explains how his story eventually was changed/turned to align with God’s story. The chapter discussing Purpose was very insightful! Following each chapter is a Reflection section with questions and further inspiration and ideas to help lead you to match your story with God’s greater story. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Derek Griffon.
Author 1 book11 followers
July 4, 2020
What a GREAT STORY. I had the privilege of being on the book launch team and I finished this book in less than a day! Sam is one of the most humble dudes I’ve ever heard on stage and have witnessed his humble interactions with others.
If you want hope for a greater story, dive into Sam’s story!
Book is available everywhere August 4th!
Profile Image for Kevin Harris.
56 reviews4 followers
August 9, 2020
A Greater Story

Sam’s story is a great reminder that we are ALL a part of a Greater Story - and that is God’s story. The book reads as if you and Sam are sharing stories with each other over a cup of coffee or a good meal.
17 reviews
August 12, 2020
Sam does an excellent job of weaving his personal story into the greater story of God's redemptive plan for all of us. Sam's vulnerability in telling his story is refreshing and encouraging. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking encouragement in creating a greater story for their lives.
394 reviews
August 20, 2020
Do you feel your life lacks purpose? Read A Greater Story.

Do you question God's grace? Read A Greater Story.

Does your past hold you back? Read A Greater Story.
.
This is an incredible accounting of spiritual growth.
Profile Image for natalie.
6 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2020
Chapters 12 and 13!! Whew! Good stuff.
1 review
August 5, 2020
This book was amazing!! It will literally change the way you view biographies. Sam writes with so much grace as he allows you into his story...A Greater Story!!
354 reviews
August 13, 2020
Interesting read. God has His hand in our lives, for our entire life.
Profile Image for April.
8 reviews
August 13, 2020
What a great book for times of uncertainty. We can be certain that God knows what is up next for us. I am so encouraged to keep moving on God's plan!!
Profile Image for Kristi Hayes.
61 reviews3 followers
September 13, 2020
I love anything Sam does. His story is powerful and everyone should take encouragement when reading this.
29 reviews2 followers
November 11, 2020
What a blessing that Sam and his sister were given up for adoption. God had special plans for their lives.
Profile Image for Emily Pryor.
211 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2021
Just in time to see this amazing man of God speak again at my church tomorrow! His story is truly a great one and his faith and his perspective are very encouraging and thought provoking!
Author 2 books5 followers
September 4, 2020
"The greatest decision you could ever make in life is to become who you already are." Sam's story is one of the most unique I've heard in years, yet one to which every individual can relate. I'd recommend this book to anyone seeking to discover or recenter their purpose in life.
Profile Image for Katheryne.
274 reviews13 followers
September 22, 2020
A very encouraging and hopeful memoir from an author whose story is unlike any other. I cheered him on at his victories and groaned in understanding at his struggles. We are all uniquely gifted to live out our God-given potential, and it is supposed to look different for each of us. What a great reminder from Sam! What a great inspiration as well!
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