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Going South: with the God of Jacob's and My Mistakes
From the author of Call of a Coward—the God of Moses and the Middle-Class Housewife, comes another inspirational, Christian-living memoir. When Bob and Marcia Moston told their friends they were moving south, they meant it as a geographical move. They didn’t expect their plans to go south too. Trusting his wife’s previously sound judgment, Bob agrees to have Marcia go ahead of him and pick out a house—an efficient, low-maintenance one. It was a good plan. If only Marcia had stuck to it. But when she veers from the plan, the couple find themselves overwhelmed with the consequences of a seemingly bad decision. Marcia looks for encouragement in the story of Jacob—the patriarchal bad boy, remembered more for the predicaments he got himself into than for his commendable deeds—and the God who is not deterred by our plots, plans, stratagems, and side trips. Written with heart, humor, and biblical insight, Going South—with the God of Jacob’s and My Mistakes offers hope and encouragement to those who find their lives upturned by a geographical move, a chaotic economy, a backfired dream, or just a plain bad choice.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 28, 2021
This is a fun collection of stories and memories centering around buying, remodeling and selling houses. Moston is a good story teller and she knows how to add humor and give a good punchline to a story. I like how she is able to draw spiritual insights and life lessons from her experiences. While the focus is on houses, she also includes other stories, such as taking in an elderly parent and helping their daughter through a difficult time.
This is a good book for readers who like to gain wisdom from someone who has made mistakes and shares what she has learned from them. It's a good example for a potential writer who wants to share their own experiences and the life lessons learned. You'll also find a little humor thrown in along the way. I mean, it's not everyday we read about a seagull saving the disciples. (You've got to read the book.)
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
This is a good book for readers who like to gain wisdom from someone who has made mistakes and shares what she has learned from them. It's a good example for a potential writer who wants to share their own experiences and the life lessons learned. You'll also find a little humor thrown in along the way. I mean, it's not everyday we read about a seagull saving the disciples. (You've got to read the book.)
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
July 4, 2021
“You know you’re in trouble when you look for encouragement from the story of someone remembered more for the predicaments he got himself into than for his commendable deeds. But like Jacob, some of us have to wrestle an angel of the Lord all night before we get to the end of ourselves and trust that the Lord can and will orchestrate all he’s appointed for us, in spite of us – even when we make bad decisions and big mistakes.”
I loved reading through this memoir, as it had me laughing one minute, and appreciating Gods character the next. I enjoyed reading through her struggles and mistakes, and rejoiced as lessons were learned from them. It definitely had me pondering on many of the mistakes I’ve made in my life, and the wisdom that I’ve glean from them (and am still wrestling through). My favorite quote was,
“Fishing bobbins – they disappear under water for awhile and then pop back up in another place. Often these insights seem so simple, you’re sure you’ve mastered them – until they resurface sometime later and test you once again”
I loved how the author weaves the story of Jacob throughout the book. I’ve often pondered on this story, as I’ve often found myself feeling afraid and crying out to God in frustration. In this bible story Jacob knew that God was with him, but was still terrified. Jacob wrestled with God as he demands that God bless him, and God honors his determination. Jacob saw God face to face, and that changed him. He not only got a new name, but was no longer fearful. Jacob realized he could obey God, no matter how scared he felt. He could trust that God always keeps His promises.
This memoir was a wonderful example of Gods faithfulness to us, and the grace He surrounds us with daily. I loved the encouragement this book provided, and the reminder that despite our bad decisions and constant changes in life, we can trust God is working it out for good.
“We’ll be surprised on day to see how much the little glass-of-water moments we thought were so insignificant ended up watering a field of fruit in someone else’s life. All those “seemingly insignificant acts of daily life”.. are the places where we can prove being faithful in little leads to being faithful in much.”
I loved reading through this memoir, as it had me laughing one minute, and appreciating Gods character the next. I enjoyed reading through her struggles and mistakes, and rejoiced as lessons were learned from them. It definitely had me pondering on many of the mistakes I’ve made in my life, and the wisdom that I’ve glean from them (and am still wrestling through). My favorite quote was,
“Fishing bobbins – they disappear under water for awhile and then pop back up in another place. Often these insights seem so simple, you’re sure you’ve mastered them – until they resurface sometime later and test you once again”
I loved how the author weaves the story of Jacob throughout the book. I’ve often pondered on this story, as I’ve often found myself feeling afraid and crying out to God in frustration. In this bible story Jacob knew that God was with him, but was still terrified. Jacob wrestled with God as he demands that God bless him, and God honors his determination. Jacob saw God face to face, and that changed him. He not only got a new name, but was no longer fearful. Jacob realized he could obey God, no matter how scared he felt. He could trust that God always keeps His promises.
This memoir was a wonderful example of Gods faithfulness to us, and the grace He surrounds us with daily. I loved the encouragement this book provided, and the reminder that despite our bad decisions and constant changes in life, we can trust God is working it out for good.
“We’ll be surprised on day to see how much the little glass-of-water moments we thought were so insignificant ended up watering a field of fruit in someone else’s life. All those “seemingly insignificant acts of daily life”.. are the places where we can prove being faithful in little leads to being faithful in much.”
July 2, 2021
I have read the scripture many times where it talks about the plans God has for us. We make decisions praying we are going in the right direction. I liked this book because it is candid, personal, mixed with humor and God’s Word. The author takes us on a trip where mistakes are made but with it comes wisdom. I’m not big on change and get anxiety when faced with it. I laughed when the author saw actual billboards that were directed at her. Well I’m thinking , He is definitely trying to get her attention. I got comfortable and buckled in to travel with our author as she navigates life and change.
I loved how the author weaved the story of Jacob throughout the book. In the midst of everything Jacob was doing wrong, God showed him grace. How many times have we wanted to give up? As the author continues her journey through restoring a sad looking house to owning vending machine we sense God working and reminding her that He is in control.
Each chapter is filled with wonderful accounts of a journey that teaches us to trust God, never give up and thank Him for His grace that surrounds us daily. I enjoyed the book and found it refreshing to read. I appreciate how the author shared her struggles and rejoiced when lessons were learned. This would be a great book to give to someone needing encouragement and a reminder that change doesn’t have to be a burden.
“God is in charge of your future, don’t fear change.”
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I loved how the author weaved the story of Jacob throughout the book. In the midst of everything Jacob was doing wrong, God showed him grace. How many times have we wanted to give up? As the author continues her journey through restoring a sad looking house to owning vending machine we sense God working and reminding her that He is in control.
Each chapter is filled with wonderful accounts of a journey that teaches us to trust God, never give up and thank Him for His grace that surrounds us daily. I enjoyed the book and found it refreshing to read. I appreciate how the author shared her struggles and rejoiced when lessons were learned. This would be a great book to give to someone needing encouragement and a reminder that change doesn’t have to be a burden.
“God is in charge of your future, don’t fear change.”
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
April 28, 2021
Author Marcia Moston offers a delightful Christian adventure in her memoir, Going South with the God of Jacob’s and My Mistakes. Although I found the subtitle somewhat confusing, Ms. Moston skillfully draws parallels to her own misadventures and that of Biblical Jacob. What began as the author’s plan to purchase a home out of town while her husband remained behind to work, turned into a comedy of misjudgments that the author navigates with a delightful dose of faith and trust in God’s presence no matter how much her plans ‘went south’.
I had several laugh-out-loud moments among the many mishaps, making the story relatable and inspiring at the same time. Ms. Moston presented a beautiful example of living a messy life alongside a loving God and trusting that we are not forsaken.
HOW THIS BOOK AFFECTED ME:
The premise of the book in regards to moving and home renovation is not an unfamiliar theme for me, although this story has a heavy dose of steroids, making it particularly enjoyable. As a superfan of narrative nonfiction, I appreciated the humor the author used and loved her frequent tie-in to Christian living. The reminder of God being there among the messiness of life is a potent and powerful message for Christians and non-Christians alike.
WHO WOULD ENJOY THIS BOOK:
Certainly, memoir fans would enjoy this book. Beyond that, anyone with a messy life who’s struggling to find God among the mayhem would be inspired by Going South.
I had several laugh-out-loud moments among the many mishaps, making the story relatable and inspiring at the same time. Ms. Moston presented a beautiful example of living a messy life alongside a loving God and trusting that we are not forsaken.
HOW THIS BOOK AFFECTED ME:
The premise of the book in regards to moving and home renovation is not an unfamiliar theme for me, although this story has a heavy dose of steroids, making it particularly enjoyable. As a superfan of narrative nonfiction, I appreciated the humor the author used and loved her frequent tie-in to Christian living. The reminder of God being there among the messiness of life is a potent and powerful message for Christians and non-Christians alike.
WHO WOULD ENJOY THIS BOOK:
Certainly, memoir fans would enjoy this book. Beyond that, anyone with a messy life who’s struggling to find God among the mayhem would be inspired by Going South.
July 8, 2021
I am not one who usually reads memoirs, but the synopsis of this book and the fact that it has a humorous slant, drew me in. Going South: with the God of Jacob's and My Mistakes by Marcia Maston is the most recent book I have read and it is a memoir.
Marcia Moston has convinced her husband to let her go South and he stay up North, to pick out a house for them to move to. They are looking for a low maintenance home. Marcia has a solid plan, but makes a decision to change up those plans. Marcia and her husband Bob are now in the midst of Chaos and trying to figure out how to deal with the consequences of changing plans.
Going South is a memoir with a message. Marcia and Bob lean on the Biblical story of Jacob. Jacob was shown Grace by God through his many mistakes. The book is filled with stories and memories of the Maston's journey of moving to the South and buying and renovating a home. The Biblical references are really encouraging. The message in the book is that no matter how big the mistakes are, God is there for us to continue to lead and guide us through the trial that was created. I always go by "God's plans are Greater then our Own Plans" and I also see that message in this book! I also enjoyed the humor that was throughout the book. Many times laughter is what will get us through the trials of life. GOOD BOOK!
Marcia Moston has convinced her husband to let her go South and he stay up North, to pick out a house for them to move to. They are looking for a low maintenance home. Marcia has a solid plan, but makes a decision to change up those plans. Marcia and her husband Bob are now in the midst of Chaos and trying to figure out how to deal with the consequences of changing plans.
Going South is a memoir with a message. Marcia and Bob lean on the Biblical story of Jacob. Jacob was shown Grace by God through his many mistakes. The book is filled with stories and memories of the Maston's journey of moving to the South and buying and renovating a home. The Biblical references are really encouraging. The message in the book is that no matter how big the mistakes are, God is there for us to continue to lead and guide us through the trial that was created. I always go by "God's plans are Greater then our Own Plans" and I also see that message in this book! I also enjoyed the humor that was throughout the book. Many times laughter is what will get us through the trials of life. GOOD BOOK!
July 13, 2021
Perhaps because my parents moved our family from southern New Jersey to Spartanburg, South Carolina when I was nine, or perhaps because four years later we moved to Salisbury, North Carolina after my sister convinced my father buying a historical home was the smart thing to do, I quickly found myself caught up in this story. Or it could be the moves from eastern North Carolina to western Pennsylvania to eastern Pennsylvania to eastern Texas to Charlotte, North Carolina thanks to my husband serving full-time in the Army Reserves, this book resonated with me.
The adventures in the book captured many of the feelings and thoughts I have encountered through my life and the different places we have lived. I felt like the author did an excellent job capturing events along with realism and humor that kept me interested. The idea of a low-maintenance home falls by the wayside when the house Carol picks out turns out to be anything by low-maintenance. The Biblical insights, humor, and that the book obviously comes from the heart make this book enjoyable and worth reading.
So if you enjoy reading Christian-living memoirs with heart, humor, and Biblical connections, check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
The adventures in the book captured many of the feelings and thoughts I have encountered through my life and the different places we have lived. I felt like the author did an excellent job capturing events along with realism and humor that kept me interested. The idea of a low-maintenance home falls by the wayside when the house Carol picks out turns out to be anything by low-maintenance. The Biblical insights, humor, and that the book obviously comes from the heart make this book enjoyable and worth reading.
So if you enjoy reading Christian-living memoirs with heart, humor, and Biblical connections, check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
June 30, 2021
Going South is written by Marsha Moston. This is a humorous book to read. I am a Yankee Transplant. I am originally born and raised in Cleveland Ohio - and now call SE Alabama home. Living in the South, I have learned a bunch of Southern-isms. This book reminded me of a lot of what I hear in my every day life.
This book is a great read to gain wisdom from a woman who has no problem admitting she has made mistakes. The author compares her mistakes to those of Jacob. I love the biblical references that she puts in. Her husband set her out on an adventure to buy a home so they could move south - and she goes through what happens. It does NOT go as planned. The author details her journey of buying, remodeling and selling houses.
The author uses her wit and humor along with solid biblical verses to create this memoir. This is recommended to anyone who likes humorous books or memoirs. I would love to sit down and have coffee with the author - she seems like she would be a hoot to talk to.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.
This book is a great read to gain wisdom from a woman who has no problem admitting she has made mistakes. The author compares her mistakes to those of Jacob. I love the biblical references that she puts in. Her husband set her out on an adventure to buy a home so they could move south - and she goes through what happens. It does NOT go as planned. The author details her journey of buying, remodeling and selling houses.
The author uses her wit and humor along with solid biblical verses to create this memoir. This is recommended to anyone who likes humorous books or memoirs. I would love to sit down and have coffee with the author - she seems like she would be a hoot to talk to.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.
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July 1, 2021To be honest, I don't generally read a whole lot of memoirs. I don't really have anything against them really, I just don't tend to come across too many that I really find myself having to read. I admit the cover and description of this one drew me in... but had I been choosing it on my own, I'm likely to have gone right past it...and I would have been missing out!
Going South managed to be both humorous and entertaining to read, while also being rather inspirational at the same time. I found myself laughing on many occasions, but at the same time there were valuable lessons to be learned about God's faithfulness. I enjoyed the biblical references, and I thought the author did a great job of incorporating that into the story... all without coming across as preachy.
Overall, I found this to be an entertaining read. Fans of memoirs are sure to enjoy it, but even those who don't typically go for them like myself just might be pleasantly surprised as well... I certainly was.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
Going South managed to be both humorous and entertaining to read, while also being rather inspirational at the same time. I found myself laughing on many occasions, but at the same time there were valuable lessons to be learned about God's faithfulness. I enjoyed the biblical references, and I thought the author did a great job of incorporating that into the story... all without coming across as preachy.
Overall, I found this to be an entertaining read. Fans of memoirs are sure to enjoy it, but even those who don't typically go for them like myself just might be pleasantly surprised as well... I certainly was.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
June 28, 2021
Going South: with the God of Jacob's and My Mistakes is a really good book and the first one I have read by Marcia Moston. I was inspired by this book. It was full of laughs that, also, has a beautiful way of adding faith and God’s love. The author talent really shines through by showing how even when we find ourselves in some unexpected situations, God will always be there to give you hope.
Going South: with the God of Jacob's and My Mistakes is getting four and a half stars from me. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading inspiring memoirs. I would love to read more by Marcia Moston in the future. This one should not be missed.
I received a paperback copy of Going South: with the God of Jacob's and My Mistakes from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Going South: with the God of Jacob's and My Mistakes is getting four and a half stars from me. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading inspiring memoirs. I would love to read more by Marcia Moston in the future. This one should not be missed.
I received a paperback copy of Going South: with the God of Jacob's and My Mistakes from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
July 8, 2021
I think this is a book that lots of people would enjoy. It isn't a very long book so its a quick, enjoyable read. This author does a wonderful job mixing the elements of this book into a wonderful thing that I greatly enjoyed. The story of Jacob is woven in to her own crazy mistakes and God guided life.
I have to admit that I laughed quite a bit and at the same time felt a lot of connection with the book. Going South was supposed to be a physical move, but it was so much more. I love the personal stories and how completely honest and open they are. For me, the whole thing just worked wonderfully and I really enjoyed it.
4/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I have to admit that I laughed quite a bit and at the same time felt a lot of connection with the book. Going South was supposed to be a physical move, but it was so much more. I love the personal stories and how completely honest and open they are. For me, the whole thing just worked wonderfully and I really enjoyed it.
4/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
June 29, 2021
This was a fun collection of stories relating to the author's journey of buying, remodeling and selling houses. It is full of humor and some good wisdom. The author definitely provides some spiritual insights and life lessons from her experience. She does it with humor and wit. I honestly didn't expect that in this book but I found it to be enjoyable. It is definitely a different take on a non-fiction book. Overall I thought it was a good book and I think readers that enjoy reading memoirs would greatly enjoy this one.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 3, 2021
"Going South" by Marsha Moston is a collection of stories and memories centering around buying, remodeling and selling houses, along with a few other stories. I like the one where God uses a seagull to save the disciples to show He is still the same God today as He was then. There is also a story on not judging people by appearances. This was a short read.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These are my own opinions.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These are my own opinions.
July 6, 2021
A fun quick read about the author’s journey of buying, remodeling and selling homes filled with wisdom, humor and spiritual insights. I loved the story on how to not judge people by their appearances.
I received a copy of the ebook from the author and Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These are my own opinions.
I received a copy of the ebook from the author and Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These are my own opinions.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews