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Relentless: The Unshakeable Presence of a God Who Never Leaves
Where is God when life is filled with so much suffering? How can I be sure of God's presence and affection, even in my pain? Can you believe in God and still wrestle with questions and doubt? These are the questions honestly explored in Relentless.
Whether in struggle, illness, death, or failure, the presence of pain causes us to question the presence of God. We pray and watch the sky, crossing our spiritual fingers for hardcore proof of God's nearness. And in the silence, we sense something more sinister: perceived abandonment.
But what if we could collect evidence that God hasn't left us? What if we could be absolutely certain of God's presence and affection, strengthening our faith against any assault?
Woven throughout Scripture sits a single, extraordinary theme: God is with us. Ours is a God who speaks through burning bushes and leads through pillars of fire, who responds to a broken world by giving himself.
Like the Old Testament story of Joshua's altar of twelve stones, Relentless delivers twelve key biblical stories that demonstrate God's unfailing presence. Each chapter offers an invitation to identify a "stone" in your own life as tangible evidence of God's nearness. With the turn of the last page, you will have discovered twelve markers of your own, an altar of memory to carry you through questions and losses, even ones yet to come.
For the truth-seekers, those drowning in impossible questions, and those who find themselves swallowed up by the dark, Relentless is an invitation to search for divine presence in our everyday stories. With Michele Cushatt's engaging narrative style, this transformational journey reassures us that God, indeed, is with us.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2019
186 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
About the author
Michele Cushatt
10 books135 followersA lover at heart, Michele Cushatt communicates with a rare warmth and transparency that draw people in. Within minutes, men and women feel like they’re hanging out with an old friend, often laughing one moment and tearing up the next. A three-time head and neck cancer survivor and parent of “children from hard places,” Michele is a (reluctant) expert of trauma, pain and the deep human need for authentic connection. Thus, she’s absolutely committed to sharing her honest struggles, experiences and questions, so you know you’re not alone in yours.
As an experienced communicator, Michele has spoken internationally to a wide variety of audiences including LifeToday TV, Compassion International, Hope House of Colorado, Women Of Faith, Ziglar Family, Focus on the Family, Proverbs 31, She Speaks, Family Life Blended, Dynamic Communicators International, as well as numerous other corporate and ministry events and various podcast, radio, video and audio recording mediums.
From 2014 to 2016, Michele joined leadership expert and mentor Michael Hyatt as the weekly cohost of his popular podcast, This is Your Life With Michael Hyatt. In addition, she and Michael produced Get Published, a 21-session audio program for aspiring writers. Currently, Michele can be found weekly with her buddy Kathi Lipp on their hilarious and practical Communicator Academy podcast, “helping writers and speakers become the communicators God made them to be.” And, coming Fall 2018, Michele will launch her brand new This Undone Life Together podcast, a series of honest conversations about real faith and real relationship in the hard places.
Since 2007, Michele has worked closely with Ken Davis and the SCORRE Conference, filling multiple roles including emcee, presenter, and coach. With a solid understanding of what makes for excellent communication, Michele coaches multiple leaders and speakers to discover, develop, and deliver powerful presentations. In addition, she leads the intensive, application-based Inspired Life Mastermind for women who desire to live their best life—in business, relationships and personal growth.
Pulling from her uncommon life story, Michele released her first book, a memoir titled Undone: A Story of Making Peace With An Unexpected Life, with Zondervan Publishers in 2015. Her second book, a devotional written in the brutal months after her third round of cancer, is titled I Am: A 60-Day Journey To Knowing Who You Are Because of Who He Is, and it released January 2017. Currently, she is neck-deep in researching and writing two more books, slated to release in 2019 and 2021.
Michele and her husband, Troy, live in Colorado with their six children, ages 11 to 26. She enjoys a good novel, a long hike in the mountains, and a kitchen table filled with people.
And donuts. Lots of donuts.
As an experienced communicator, Michele has spoken internationally to a wide variety of audiences including LifeToday TV, Compassion International, Hope House of Colorado, Women Of Faith, Ziglar Family, Focus on the Family, Proverbs 31, She Speaks, Family Life Blended, Dynamic Communicators International, as well as numerous other corporate and ministry events and various podcast, radio, video and audio recording mediums.
From 2014 to 2016, Michele joined leadership expert and mentor Michael Hyatt as the weekly cohost of his popular podcast, This is Your Life With Michael Hyatt. In addition, she and Michael produced Get Published, a 21-session audio program for aspiring writers. Currently, Michele can be found weekly with her buddy Kathi Lipp on their hilarious and practical Communicator Academy podcast, “helping writers and speakers become the communicators God made them to be.” And, coming Fall 2018, Michele will launch her brand new This Undone Life Together podcast, a series of honest conversations about real faith and real relationship in the hard places.
Since 2007, Michele has worked closely with Ken Davis and the SCORRE Conference, filling multiple roles including emcee, presenter, and coach. With a solid understanding of what makes for excellent communication, Michele coaches multiple leaders and speakers to discover, develop, and deliver powerful presentations. In addition, she leads the intensive, application-based Inspired Life Mastermind for women who desire to live their best life—in business, relationships and personal growth.
Pulling from her uncommon life story, Michele released her first book, a memoir titled Undone: A Story of Making Peace With An Unexpected Life, with Zondervan Publishers in 2015. Her second book, a devotional written in the brutal months after her third round of cancer, is titled I Am: A 60-Day Journey To Knowing Who You Are Because of Who He Is, and it released January 2017. Currently, she is neck-deep in researching and writing two more books, slated to release in 2019 and 2021.
Michele and her husband, Troy, live in Colorado with their six children, ages 11 to 26. She enjoys a good novel, a long hike in the mountains, and a kitchen table filled with people.
And donuts. Lots of donuts.
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January 12, 2024Transparently, cautiously, Michele Cushatt invites us along on her search for God’s presence, mining the Bible as well as reliable spiritual mentors for help along the way. To anyone who experiences pain, depression, confusion, or simply a nagging sense of life’s unfairness, I recommend Michele Cushatt as a trustworthy guide.
September 29, 2019
Michele has written her story,
and my story,
and likely, your story...
because living after loss,
is the human story.
It is no secret, that sending our last "foster" child back home to his drug-addicted parents, crushed my soul. It's like the loss of a child, but he's not deceased, just gone from my life as if he were. I was, and in many ways still am, in so much pain. To say that I was angry at God, put it mildly. I quit church. I quit Bible study. I quit Christian music. I quit Him.
I knew He was there, but, gosh... to warrant the loss of a precious 3 year-old, I certainly must have done something to anger the heavens. For decades, I believed that I was a "good Christian." So, if I was, why this loss of faith? The answer, I suppose, spiritual weakness -- and then comes the guilt. Therein I become like a dog chasing his tail. Constant motion, but nothing productive.
In Relentless, Michele shares her story of loss, and subsequent feeling of lost relationship with God. Her open and honest discourse of that discord is a healing balm to my soul. She writes of her doubts and struggles. She grapples with her faith, and finds that all the while, our God has been in Relentless pursuit of her.
The peace offered by this short excerpt is almost palpable.
"[F]rom a place of relative distance, the well-intentioned simply see the miracle of life that is you. They see how suffering could’ve swallowed you whole. And how, somehow, it didn’t. For that reason, they don’t see reason to mourn; they see cause for celebration.
Still, for the person who suffers, for the one who endures the unthinkable, grief requires a reckoning. The only way to arrive at honest celebration is to simultaneously allow yourself honest lamentation. Those who suffer will tell you without hesitation: to live after loss comes at steep cost."
"Yes, there is a deep loneliness in suffering. Whether it’s a terminal disease, a chronic illness, the loss of a child, or the irreparable severing of a relationship, suffering brings with it an otherness. Perhaps that is both the burden and the gift. For in this lonely place we learn how to keep company with others who find themselves there.
It’s easy to assume that life comes back once the crisis is past. But life never comes back. New life can grow, and I see evidence of that fact. But new life can grow only as it is watered by grief’s tears.
I’m going to tell you something, and you won’t like it any more than I do. But we both need to hear it.
God’s presence is where the pain is."
That little gem right there. "God's presence is where the pain is." That's a stepping stone for my healing heart.
and my story,
and likely, your story...
because living after loss,
is the human story.
It is no secret, that sending our last "foster" child back home to his drug-addicted parents, crushed my soul. It's like the loss of a child, but he's not deceased, just gone from my life as if he were. I was, and in many ways still am, in so much pain. To say that I was angry at God, put it mildly. I quit church. I quit Bible study. I quit Christian music. I quit Him.
I knew He was there, but, gosh... to warrant the loss of a precious 3 year-old, I certainly must have done something to anger the heavens. For decades, I believed that I was a "good Christian." So, if I was, why this loss of faith? The answer, I suppose, spiritual weakness -- and then comes the guilt. Therein I become like a dog chasing his tail. Constant motion, but nothing productive.
In Relentless, Michele shares her story of loss, and subsequent feeling of lost relationship with God. Her open and honest discourse of that discord is a healing balm to my soul. She writes of her doubts and struggles. She grapples with her faith, and finds that all the while, our God has been in Relentless pursuit of her.
The peace offered by this short excerpt is almost palpable.
"[F]rom a place of relative distance, the well-intentioned simply see the miracle of life that is you. They see how suffering could’ve swallowed you whole. And how, somehow, it didn’t. For that reason, they don’t see reason to mourn; they see cause for celebration.
Still, for the person who suffers, for the one who endures the unthinkable, grief requires a reckoning. The only way to arrive at honest celebration is to simultaneously allow yourself honest lamentation. Those who suffer will tell you without hesitation: to live after loss comes at steep cost."
"Yes, there is a deep loneliness in suffering. Whether it’s a terminal disease, a chronic illness, the loss of a child, or the irreparable severing of a relationship, suffering brings with it an otherness. Perhaps that is both the burden and the gift. For in this lonely place we learn how to keep company with others who find themselves there.
It’s easy to assume that life comes back once the crisis is past. But life never comes back. New life can grow, and I see evidence of that fact. But new life can grow only as it is watered by grief’s tears.
I’m going to tell you something, and you won’t like it any more than I do. But we both need to hear it.
God’s presence is where the pain is."
That little gem right there. "God's presence is where the pain is." That's a stepping stone for my healing heart.
October 5, 2019
This book is so raw and honest about all the pain and suffering she has been through. Her words will touch your heart and soul. When we are in our darkest hour and feel all alone, God is there with us. This is a book everybody needs to read.
October 5, 2019
I am so grateful to have an advance copy of Michele's book, Relentless. I am in the middle of it, and it is taking me longer to read than I expected ... because each page is like reading a page out of my own story. I am caught up in tears and have to stop and start again. Our stories are different, yet the same. We love, serve, and are hanging on to the same God every minute by minute. And she relays that so well in her book. She makes me feel like a friend sitting next to me. She reminds me of our God who is pursuing me in the hard, hard stuff of life that no one else sees but Him. You won't regret reading this 0ne.
September 22, 2019
I have only read the first 2 Chapters and yet from the beginning I found that Michele’s writing captured my heart. Some of my experiences mirrored what she expressed. It was like reading my own story with different words and details. In the process of reading her story, God released pent up emotions from my heart and gave me the grace to allow Him to work in my life too! I can’t wait to finish reading this book.
November 12, 2019
Amazing book!! I can’t put into words right now how much this book has meant to me. Struggles with chronic pain over the last couple of years mixed with just the constant dealings of life have brought me to my knees. This book is a great reminder of how great our God is and that we can trust Him in spite of whatever is going on. He is with us in our pain. This is definitely a book to be shared.
October 27, 2019
Gosh, I love this book.
I read “Undone,” also by Cushatt, at its release and absolutely adored it, so jumped at the chance to read this one. Her writing style is captivating, raw, honest, and always, always pointing back to Christ—even in the moments where it is impossibly hard to do so.
Cushatt’s story is so powerful, I can’t do it justice here. Just...pick up a copy and discover her heart and God’s power for yourself. She writes so approachably and honestly, it helps me to know I’m not the only one that has asked questions or wondered things. (Hi, I’m Type A and fixed-mindset for most of my life, so I often need permission, or don’t want to do something if it’s not guaranteed success from the get-go.) this book makes me feel more human and normal, I guess you could say, lol!
I also love that Cushatt read the audiobook version herself. When i started reading “Relentless” and seeing what she went through in her cancer battle, I immediately wondered how her voice would sound...couldn’t help it. Curiosity. And it’s just so...powerful. That’s all I got. Crazy power from a crazy-awesome God. He is good, and that goodness is written all over this book, both audio and print. What a fantastic read.
I received a copy of the book from the author. All opinions are my own.
I read “Undone,” also by Cushatt, at its release and absolutely adored it, so jumped at the chance to read this one. Her writing style is captivating, raw, honest, and always, always pointing back to Christ—even in the moments where it is impossibly hard to do so.
Cushatt’s story is so powerful, I can’t do it justice here. Just...pick up a copy and discover her heart and God’s power for yourself. She writes so approachably and honestly, it helps me to know I’m not the only one that has asked questions or wondered things. (Hi, I’m Type A and fixed-mindset for most of my life, so I often need permission, or don’t want to do something if it’s not guaranteed success from the get-go.) this book makes me feel more human and normal, I guess you could say, lol!
I also love that Cushatt read the audiobook version herself. When i started reading “Relentless” and seeing what she went through in her cancer battle, I immediately wondered how her voice would sound...couldn’t help it. Curiosity. And it’s just so...powerful. That’s all I got. Crazy power from a crazy-awesome God. He is good, and that goodness is written all over this book, both audio and print. What a fantastic read.
I received a copy of the book from the author. All opinions are my own.
October 26, 2019
Michele Cushatt’s Relentless is an honest, raw, and heartbreaking journey through one woman’s struggle to maintain her faith during horrendous physical and emotional trials. I saw myself in some of Michele’s sufferings, and seeing that someone could put words to my feelings was such a blessing! Michele maintains that even though we may suffer greatly and feel abandoned by God, He is always relentlessly pursuing us and staying close to help us and give us strength to endure. A powerful book revealing honest struggles to keep believing. This is not a one time read, but a book to keep close by for those times when we feel lost.
I was given a PDF copy of the book by the publisher for my honest review.
I was given a PDF copy of the book by the publisher for my honest review.
October 19, 2019
Wow! Whether reading one of Michele's books or listening to her speak Michele is a powerful communicator. I am so thankful that she holds nothing back and is so raw and transparent. This book speaks to the hurt, pain, and darkness that we can wrestle with in a fallen world but tend to have the courage to talk about. Sometimes in the midst of despair we can think we are alone and question why we should continue to press forward and if God is even real. She reminds and gives evidence that that God is always there and meets us in our pain. Also, that we hold a vital place in other people's stories. Our lives matter not only to God but He uses us to make a difference in the lives of others. Press in friends and continue to seek Him.
Thank you Michele for never holding back...and always seeking what He would have for you. God uses you in powerful ways!
Love the questions for personal reflection and/or group discussion.
Thank you Michele for never holding back...and always seeking what He would have for you. God uses you in powerful ways!
Love the questions for personal reflection and/or group discussion.
September 27, 2019
Reading and reviewing Christian book is a passion of mine, so I read many inspirational books. Few of them have touched me as deeply as Relentless by Michele Cushatt. Michele has gone through more suffering than most, both physically because of mouth cancer, and emotionally because of the lasting results of that cancer. She even adopted children who had abuse in their past, and has been helping them walk through this. I was encouraged and amazed by not only her faith, but how real she is able to be while sharing her story. Let’s be real. We don’t need another story of how to be a strong warrior who does everything right, and overcomes everything to have a perfect life. We need to hear the real story of someone in the trenches of pain and suffering, and how they mess up, feel defeated, but still are surrounded and lifted up by our perfect God.
There are so many quotes that I could pull out from this book. I had to really sit and narrow it down to choose my favorites:
“I could keep going through Biblical passages and human generations, but you get the idea. Deliverance by God. Despondency and disobedience by His people. This was their pattern. As it is for all of us. Even so, in spite of their long history of showing up, God never stopped showing up….His presence never left. Even when their hearts wandered.”
God’s presence doesn’t sit in judgment. He sits in mercy. He doesn’t withhold His compassion until I get all my Christianity right. He doesn’t even wait for me to have it all together to show me His kindness. Though my prayers are flawed, and my performance unpredictable, though I claim to love Him and can’t always understand Him, His mercy carries me. It carries every single one of us,flawed children and parents alike. And the glimmers of His presence cover us like a bottle of glitter upended.”
“Because Jesus, too, knows that kind of darkness. Jesus, too, felt the ache of separation that His circumstances created. He knows the pain of feeling abandoned by those He loves. Jesus, too, knows what it is like to beg His Father for deliverance from pain but to have to walk through it and feel it anyway. The difference? Jesus chose suffering. I didn’t. Jesus could’ve run away, hidden Himself from those who would hurt Him…only He didn’t.”
I would recommend this book for any woman who is trying to be stronger than her circumstances. You have a God who is relentless in His pursuit of you. He holds you in the palm of His hand. Turn to Him in your time of need, and let Him carry you. Grab a copy of this book, and push in.
There are so many quotes that I could pull out from this book. I had to really sit and narrow it down to choose my favorites:
“I could keep going through Biblical passages and human generations, but you get the idea. Deliverance by God. Despondency and disobedience by His people. This was their pattern. As it is for all of us. Even so, in spite of their long history of showing up, God never stopped showing up….His presence never left. Even when their hearts wandered.”
God’s presence doesn’t sit in judgment. He sits in mercy. He doesn’t withhold His compassion until I get all my Christianity right. He doesn’t even wait for me to have it all together to show me His kindness. Though my prayers are flawed, and my performance unpredictable, though I claim to love Him and can’t always understand Him, His mercy carries me. It carries every single one of us,flawed children and parents alike. And the glimmers of His presence cover us like a bottle of glitter upended.”
“Because Jesus, too, knows that kind of darkness. Jesus, too, felt the ache of separation that His circumstances created. He knows the pain of feeling abandoned by those He loves. Jesus, too, knows what it is like to beg His Father for deliverance from pain but to have to walk through it and feel it anyway. The difference? Jesus chose suffering. I didn’t. Jesus could’ve run away, hidden Himself from those who would hurt Him…only He didn’t.”
I would recommend this book for any woman who is trying to be stronger than her circumstances. You have a God who is relentless in His pursuit of you. He holds you in the palm of His hand. Turn to Him in your time of need, and let Him carry you. Grab a copy of this book, and push in.
October 5, 2019
I love Michelle and her heart, but sometimes her story is a difficult one to read. She is a great writer and communicator so it is well-written but my heart hurts at so many moments. Aches. My eyes tear up and I spend time wanting to pray for her as much as learn from her.
We’ve all lost folks. Some of us have battled cancer. Some of us have lost loved ones to suicide or we ourselves have danced too closely with the spirit of death. So has Michelle. Yet, the grace and beauty in this book is the unrelenting love of God for Michelle in her most difficult moments.
I know I’ve struggled with the questions of “why is there suffering” and even “why me” before. I don’t think I arrived at answers with as much clarity as Michelle did. She so beautifully shares the brokenness of her family, the fears, struggles, and pain of health battles, and the relentless love that kept her tethered to hope.
In reading her story I can retrace the goodness of God in my own story. In His relentless pursuit of me I can find peace and the strength to keep going. Through it all I can give him the glory - even when I am confused, hurt, scared, or lonely. Like Michelle does. This is a must read! Just be prepared for the snot bubbles.
We’ve all lost folks. Some of us have battled cancer. Some of us have lost loved ones to suicide or we ourselves have danced too closely with the spirit of death. So has Michelle. Yet, the grace and beauty in this book is the unrelenting love of God for Michelle in her most difficult moments.
I know I’ve struggled with the questions of “why is there suffering” and even “why me” before. I don’t think I arrived at answers with as much clarity as Michelle did. She so beautifully shares the brokenness of her family, the fears, struggles, and pain of health battles, and the relentless love that kept her tethered to hope.
In reading her story I can retrace the goodness of God in my own story. In His relentless pursuit of me I can find peace and the strength to keep going. Through it all I can give him the glory - even when I am confused, hurt, scared, or lonely. Like Michelle does. This is a must read! Just be prepared for the snot bubbles.
October 6, 2019
Straight from the heart and soul, real and raw, Michele delivers a powerful message of truth that God meets us in our pain. That faith is good when it's all good, but what happens when it's not? Sharing from her personal trauma as well as her dad's, you will see how God's unconditional love and presence never leaves any of us. Her biblical references are outstanding and insightful, presenting the age-old familiar stories in a new light. Sharing in her humor and disdain, her pain and victory, you will discover new things about yourself as well. As I read along God would bring to mind those in my life who need this book. I have a feeling you'll experience this as well. Michele's writing voice keeps you turning the page. Michele helps us gather stones of remembrance of God's love, mercy, and grace in our lives. Don't miss this one.
December 12, 2019
I L.O.V.E. Relentless by Michele Cushatt. It is such an incredible book with incredible reminders of the beauty of remembering and honoring God and all He does for us by keeping Altar Stones. I made some several years ago, but they were very small and were destroyed when I left them outside for too long. I look forward to a Bible Study being created for Relentless. I will be sharing Relentless with everyone I possibly can!!!
September 30, 2019
First, the writing in Michele's book was beautiful in so many ways. She has such a way to her writing that you feel as if she's telling you the story in person. She was courageous and bold in a way that allowed me to see her pain and joy and HER story. I was drawn in within the first sentences! As I read, it wasn't just the personal story, it was the weaving in of the Bible and all the lessons. I literally sat with my jaw open, just savoring every paragraph.
This is a MUST read and not just once; it's a story to return when life gets difficult. And without question, it is a place to return to when God seems to be in question.
I have been changed through this book.
Michele Cushatt
Relentless: The Unshakeable Presence of a God Who Never Leaves
This is a MUST read and not just once; it's a story to return when life gets difficult. And without question, it is a place to return to when God seems to be in question.
I have been changed through this book.
Michele Cushatt
Relentless: The Unshakeable Presence of a God Who Never Leaves
September 30, 2019
Michele starts this book right where it matters. In a place I imagine we’ve all been once before—staring into darkness, desperately trying to see light. Her stories, woven beautifully through this book will not only grip you in their telling, but place you directly in the center of your own story. When I read a memoir biblical stories, verses, references etc... often wrench me out of what I’m reading, but Michele is a weaver. The carnal truths come together in a way that illuminates both stories. I’m left examining the evidences of God in my own life, setting up reminders, and believing with my whole heart that God is relentlessly pursuing me.
September 29, 2019
It is difficult for me to put into words how I feel about Relentless. Having had a cancer journey of my own, I didn’t think anyone, including this author, could outdo her 1st Memoir, Undone, as far as speaking to my heart & soul. This book is for every woman (or man) who has been on the brink of “break,” for whatever reason, illness, parenting, loss, etc. Any trial in life that has tested your faith, reading this book will bring you tears, relation, and all sorts of feels. I cannot wait to reread the hard copy when it is released Nov 12! What a blessing to be part of the Launch Team and being allowed to read/review early! Run to get this once it is released, friends!
September 29, 2019
I have only read a few chapters so far and I would recommend this to anyone who breathes! Michele speaks of the courage that we gather from each other and the universality of our lives -- we all have trials and we all need relationship with God and each other in order to survive.
Michele Cushatt is one of my favorite authors, speakers, and podcasters. She never holds back vulnerability and the truth of how she has traversed the challenges in her life. She helped me to grow reading "I Am" and has helped me to cleanse my heart of some complicated emotions while reading "Undone".
Michele Cushatt is one of my favorite authors, speakers, and podcasters. She never holds back vulnerability and the truth of how she has traversed the challenges in her life. She helped me to grow reading "I Am" and has helped me to cleanse my heart of some complicated emotions while reading "Undone".
November 12, 2019
This book speaks to my heart in so many ways. Reading Michele's untold story makes me feel like I am no longer walking a suffering path by myself. I have a friend walking alongside me who understands this pain like no one other than Jesus Himself. Michele presents stories of weak and suffering Biblical characters, her own story, the stories of others, and, in a surprising and very poignant part of the book, excerpts from her own father's journal. Reading her father's story helps me understand Michele so much more and creates a sense of intimacy. Although it would be much easier to hide her vulnerabilities, Michele shares them with us so we don't feel so alone in the sufferings and trials life can bring. I cannot recommend this book enough.
Currently reading
September 23, 2019From the moment I started reading have a hard time putting it down!
Never read a more raw or more real book!
This is an amazing book of a woman hanging onto her faith in God! Really opens my eyes not only that we are not alone on this journey but we all struggle and we all have something to be thankful for!
I have been having some trials but the trials of a sister in this story, Lord how could I complain! My heart beats out of my chest as I continue to read! Just want to hug her! Tell her thank you for sharing because it is so scary to be this open!
What a brave soul and sister in Christ to share her journey with us, completely opened up and vulnerable!
So real! I pray this book gets in the hands of those who truly need a friend to walk with or those who feel alone!
No matter what you are going through God loves you!
Never read a more raw or more real book!
This is an amazing book of a woman hanging onto her faith in God! Really opens my eyes not only that we are not alone on this journey but we all struggle and we all have something to be thankful for!
I have been having some trials but the trials of a sister in this story, Lord how could I complain! My heart beats out of my chest as I continue to read! Just want to hug her! Tell her thank you for sharing because it is so scary to be this open!
What a brave soul and sister in Christ to share her journey with us, completely opened up and vulnerable!
So real! I pray this book gets in the hands of those who truly need a friend to walk with or those who feel alone!
No matter what you are going through God loves you!
November 18, 2019
In "Relentless," Michele invites the reader to go beyond theory and theology and connect what we say we believe with the reality of how we live. She weaves history from the Bible, from her family, and from the reality of life marked by suffering, and presents the reader with an opportunity to move beyond bumper-sticker theology to a faith that withstands storms, faith in a God who is _with_ us.
"Relentless" is an invitation to join Michele in digging "through the hard rock of [our] faith journey, unearthing stories and beliefs [we] had long buried. And then, [with the author] to put each one through a white-hot fire of the gospel until everything false is burned up and only what is true remains."
"Relentless" is an invitation to join Michele in digging "through the hard rock of [our] faith journey, unearthing stories and beliefs [we] had long buried. And then, [with the author] to put each one through a white-hot fire of the gospel until everything false is burned up and only what is true remains."
February 3, 2020
Michele brings her characteristic honest vulnerability, deep faith, and beautiful writing style to this book. (Best writer ever!)
The opening vignette alone is worth the read, to see someone put into words the depths of pain that many of us have felt at one time or another.
In a time when we see church leaders abandoning faith in droves, it's heartening — no, it's inspiring and affirming and necessary — to remind ourselves that many ordinary Christians live out their hard days loving and praising God all the more.
Michele shows us how she walked out her faith when circumstances made her question God's presence. And she shows us by example how to shore up our own faith so that we remember God's presence in our own dark times.
The opening vignette alone is worth the read, to see someone put into words the depths of pain that many of us have felt at one time or another.
In a time when we see church leaders abandoning faith in droves, it's heartening — no, it's inspiring and affirming and necessary — to remind ourselves that many ordinary Christians live out their hard days loving and praising God all the more.
Michele shows us how she walked out her faith when circumstances made her question God's presence. And she shows us by example how to shore up our own faith so that we remember God's presence in our own dark times.
November 13, 2019
I have known throughout the years that no matter where or what I was doing the LORD never left me. I heard His voice and I saw His tears and the grief on His face for me. But I continued to live in the flesh knowing I would never be worthy of His love. Slowly in my fifties, I drifted back to the Lord as the Prodigal daughter. I became involved in Bible studies and started back to church. This Bible study has touched my heart deeply. It has helped to show me that I am indeed worthy of His unending love. I can't wait to read the rest of this wonderful book!
October 22, 2019
I am on chapter 5 and what a read! As always, Michele pours her heart out in each line. With well thought out content and plenty of research backing up her objective of this book, I am looking forward to turning the rest of the pages.
December 11, 2019
Worth a Second Read (and more)
I am now a forever fan of Michele Cushatt’s writing. Actually, I already was after reading her previous two books; but now I’m publicly stating it.
There is much biblical truth and ample bared-heart sharing in Relentless: The Unshakeable Presence of a God Who Never Leaves to feed the faintest of pilgrims. If you feel alone in your struggle to comprehend how God could allow so much bad stuff to happen in your life, or in the lives of those you love dearly, then this book will help you find your way back to believing God is good.
If you’ve hit the bottom of bottoms and you can’t bear the sight or sound of another Christian cliché tossed your way, then you will love the warm and safe hearth found within the words of a woman who has been hit hard by a trainload of trials. Michele Cushatt shares her dark times poignantly with readers, so that the Light of God’s relentless love and Presence shines hope in our dark places.
One of the big takeaways for me was realizing I wasn’t alone in wondering why wrong things happened when I did my best to do all the right things. I was comforted by some common ground I found in Michele Cushatt’s soulful account, and I was encouraged by her subsequent search for God’s Presence in pain.
If you’re doubting God is still beside you in your suffering, Relentless will validate your struggle and then give solid validity to the truth our Lord forever pursues us, never leaves us, and always loves us. You’re not alone, dear friend. God is in this place with us.
I’m reading Michele’s book again, because it’s that deep and that rich with godly wisdom and been-there insight. It’s worth a second read and more.
Thank you, dear Michele Cushatt, for writing bravely. Thank you for writing Relentless: The Unshakeable Presence of a God Who Never Leaves.
I am now a forever fan of Michele Cushatt’s writing. Actually, I already was after reading her previous two books; but now I’m publicly stating it.
There is much biblical truth and ample bared-heart sharing in Relentless: The Unshakeable Presence of a God Who Never Leaves to feed the faintest of pilgrims. If you feel alone in your struggle to comprehend how God could allow so much bad stuff to happen in your life, or in the lives of those you love dearly, then this book will help you find your way back to believing God is good.
If you’ve hit the bottom of bottoms and you can’t bear the sight or sound of another Christian cliché tossed your way, then you will love the warm and safe hearth found within the words of a woman who has been hit hard by a trainload of trials. Michele Cushatt shares her dark times poignantly with readers, so that the Light of God’s relentless love and Presence shines hope in our dark places.
One of the big takeaways for me was realizing I wasn’t alone in wondering why wrong things happened when I did my best to do all the right things. I was comforted by some common ground I found in Michele Cushatt’s soulful account, and I was encouraged by her subsequent search for God’s Presence in pain.
If you’re doubting God is still beside you in your suffering, Relentless will validate your struggle and then give solid validity to the truth our Lord forever pursues us, never leaves us, and always loves us. You’re not alone, dear friend. God is in this place with us.
I’m reading Michele’s book again, because it’s that deep and that rich with godly wisdom and been-there insight. It’s worth a second read and more.
Thank you, dear Michele Cushatt, for writing bravely. Thank you for writing Relentless: The Unshakeable Presence of a God Who Never Leaves.
October 11, 2019
A BOOK MEANT TO BE PLACED INTO YOUR HANDS AND HEART...
Are your hands trembling in fear or your circumstances, or sweating as you go through all of the "what if's?"...are they aching from fighting and wrestling, or just weary from holding on too tightly, or tired from working so hard to breakthrough?
Is your heart so broken and disappointed from all of your unanswered prayers? Do you feel abandoned by God?...Even questioning if you did something wrong, or if He really exists? Are you having a crisis of faith?...
Once again, Michele Cushatt, through her humility, courage and gut wrenching honesty, has been used by God to share her incredible, hard, living testimony....creating a book which I believe that through a divine appointment will be placed into your hands. Her story will allow you to honestly wrestle with, and embrace God, His ways, and his promises. She will show you how to find him working in your own precious circumstances and suffering.
As you wrestle and embrace while reading, Michele will literally take your hands holding and reading her book....and place them back into the loving, mighty, trustworthy, sovereign hands of the Lord. Even in the silence, even in the darkest times, He has always been there, still working all things together for our good.
"God never left-even when I doubted his reality. He stood guard, behind and before. I saw evidences of him in authors, scholars who spoke to my broken heart through their words, in the well worn pages of my Bible that shone with fresh revelation and new light-and in the steadfast friends who made space for my questions without shaming me to silence." (Relentless p.78)
Do you need evidence of God in your life right now? Does your faith need resuscitation? Michele's relentless searching, fighting, praying, learning, writing will lead you to renewed hope and faith in a relentless father, who has been there the entire time waiting for us to place our hands back into his, as he squeezes tightly and whispers once again...I love you, I have been here the entire time, I will never leave you....trust me.
Are your hands trembling in fear or your circumstances, or sweating as you go through all of the "what if's?"...are they aching from fighting and wrestling, or just weary from holding on too tightly, or tired from working so hard to breakthrough?
Is your heart so broken and disappointed from all of your unanswered prayers? Do you feel abandoned by God?...Even questioning if you did something wrong, or if He really exists? Are you having a crisis of faith?...
Once again, Michele Cushatt, through her humility, courage and gut wrenching honesty, has been used by God to share her incredible, hard, living testimony....creating a book which I believe that through a divine appointment will be placed into your hands. Her story will allow you to honestly wrestle with, and embrace God, His ways, and his promises. She will show you how to find him working in your own precious circumstances and suffering.
As you wrestle and embrace while reading, Michele will literally take your hands holding and reading her book....and place them back into the loving, mighty, trustworthy, sovereign hands of the Lord. Even in the silence, even in the darkest times, He has always been there, still working all things together for our good.
"God never left-even when I doubted his reality. He stood guard, behind and before. I saw evidences of him in authors, scholars who spoke to my broken heart through their words, in the well worn pages of my Bible that shone with fresh revelation and new light-and in the steadfast friends who made space for my questions without shaming me to silence." (Relentless p.78)
Do you need evidence of God in your life right now? Does your faith need resuscitation? Michele's relentless searching, fighting, praying, learning, writing will lead you to renewed hope and faith in a relentless father, who has been there the entire time waiting for us to place our hands back into his, as he squeezes tightly and whispers once again...I love you, I have been here the entire time, I will never leave you....trust me.
November 9, 2019
Cushatt has written a very personal narrative with details of the struggles she's faced as a result of experiencing oral cancer as well as other challenges.
Frank, real and sometimes raw, Michele shares from her heart the story of God's faithfulness and His presence, even in the midst of trial and turmoil.
Michele is honest about her questions and fears, yet clings to the unchanging God. She weaves biblical stories into this narrative, for example, connecting the dots between the cultural significance of Joshua's 12 stones and how habits of remembrance can still impact our lives now.
She writes in a way that is humble, yet candid. You can't rush through this book--trust me. There's too much good stuff here!!
This would be an amazing book to share with anyone in your life who has conquered a giant or two in their life. God is faithful, even in the hard.
That's the story, really, of "Relentless."
I read an early review copy, thanks to the publisher. All opinions are my own and I chose to review.
Frank, real and sometimes raw, Michele shares from her heart the story of God's faithfulness and His presence, even in the midst of trial and turmoil.
Michele is honest about her questions and fears, yet clings to the unchanging God. She weaves biblical stories into this narrative, for example, connecting the dots between the cultural significance of Joshua's 12 stones and how habits of remembrance can still impact our lives now.
She writes in a way that is humble, yet candid. You can't rush through this book--trust me. There's too much good stuff here!!
This would be an amazing book to share with anyone in your life who has conquered a giant or two in their life. God is faithful, even in the hard.
That's the story, really, of "Relentless."
I read an early review copy, thanks to the publisher. All opinions are my own and I chose to review.
April 29, 2020
I'm still trying to get my thoughts together about this book, but it is one that I will think about for a long time to come. Michele graciously pulled back the curtain on her life and asked us to come in as she processed her difficult story and nagging questions, yet each chapter ends with great hope and faith-building truth. She gets to the heart of the question: Can I believe in and trust a loving God when life feels tremendously unloving. Her gentle answer echoes to my heart's core.
While I listened to Michele read this book on Audible (a wonderful treat), I will follow up and purchase a paperback to keep on my shelves. This is a book I not only know I will share with others but will return to myself. Thank you, Michele, for fighting through to pen the words that so lovingly ministered to my heart in the midst of my own difficult journey.
While I listened to Michele read this book on Audible (a wonderful treat), I will follow up and purchase a paperback to keep on my shelves. This is a book I not only know I will share with others but will return to myself. Thank you, Michele, for fighting through to pen the words that so lovingly ministered to my heart in the midst of my own difficult journey.
November 4, 2019
“God’s love is relentless, even when your faith isn’t.”
For those doubting, struggling, or hurting, this new book by Michele Cushatt is for you.
Michele shares openly and honestly about her own faith journey in the God who never left and always perfectly loved her through her darkest days.
Relentless will bring light to your darkness, offering hope, joy, and blessing. Personal stories and powerful testimonies woven together with the redemptive narrative of Scripture will draw your heart toward the God who loves you and is always with you.
For those doubting, struggling, or hurting, this new book by Michele Cushatt is for you.
Michele shares openly and honestly about her own faith journey in the God who never left and always perfectly loved her through her darkest days.
Relentless will bring light to your darkness, offering hope, joy, and blessing. Personal stories and powerful testimonies woven together with the redemptive narrative of Scripture will draw your heart toward the God who loves you and is always with you.
November 12, 2019
Relentless is an amazing book! Have you ever experienced depression, death of a close one, health problems, disappointments, marriage problems or divorce? This book is for you! Have you ever wondered where GOD is in these times? Have you struggled with trusting and hearing GOD? Michele shares her personal story and weaves in examples of the Bible reassuring us that GOD is here. Relentless is an easy read and I love the 12 alter stones at the end of the chapters to help me reflect on my journey. The Relentless book is a great gift for anyone who struggles with life!
September 29, 2019
Relentless in His love for me . Relentless is His protection and providership over me . Relentless is His simple grace and mercy in the most tragic and anguish filled sorrows moments of suicide loss. When everything changes...He never backed away nor ran from the fearful shadows I was put in . Relentlessly He sat down beside me and comforted me back into land of the living ! Throughout this book I was reminded with page turn..each word read .
That I was and still worthy.
Grab you a copy ..He is relentless for you too.
❤🦋❤
That I was and still worthy.
Grab you a copy ..He is relentless for you too.
❤🦋❤
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