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Holding On When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life Is Falling Apart
Are you struggling today? Do you look back and long for what used to be, or are you looking ahead and have no idea what's coming? Are you stuck in the middle of a mess because life has not turned out as you expected? When you run to God for answers, do you often feel like you aren't getting them--or at least aren't getting the answers you want? Are you holding on . . . but not sure how much longer you can?
In times of not knowing, Sheila Walsh offers a lifeline of hope. With great compassion born of experience and hardship, Walsh comes alongside the hurting, fearful, and exhausted to remind us that we serve a God who is so much greater than our momentary troubles, no matter how insurmountable they feel. She doesn't offer a quick fix. She offers a God fix. Sharing from her own painful struggles and digging deep into biblical stories of rescue, hope, and miracles, she gives you the strength to keep going, to keep holding on to God in a world turned upside down. The accompanying study includes 10 lessons to help individuals or groups dive deeper.
In times of not knowing, Sheila Walsh offers a lifeline of hope. With great compassion born of experience and hardship, Walsh comes alongside the hurting, fearful, and exhausted to remind us that we serve a God who is so much greater than our momentary troubles, no matter how insurmountable they feel. She doesn't offer a quick fix. She offers a God fix. Sharing from her own painful struggles and digging deep into biblical stories of rescue, hope, and miracles, she gives you the strength to keep going, to keep holding on to God in a world turned upside down. The accompanying study includes 10 lessons to help individuals or groups dive deeper.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published September 21, 2021
110 people are currently reading
1391 people want to read
About the author
Sheila Walsh
245 books586 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Sheila Walsh (05-07-1956) is a powerful communicator, Bible teacher, and best-selling author with more than 4 million books sold. A featured speaker with Women of Faith®, Sheila has reached more than 3.5 million women by artistically combining honesty, vulnerability, and humor with God's Word.
Author of the best-selling memoir Honestly and the Gold Medallion nominee for The Heartache No One Sees, Sheila's most recent release, The Shelter of God's Promises, has also been turned into a DVD curriculum and in-depth Bible study. The Gigi, God's Little Princess book and video series has won the National Retailer's Choice Award twice and is the most popular Christian brand for young girls in the United States.
Sheila co-hosted The 700 Club and her own show Heart to Heart with Sheila Walsh. She is currently completing her Masters in Theology.
Twitter @SheilaWalsh, facebook.com/#!/sheilawalshconnects
Sheila Walsh (05-07-1956) is a powerful communicator, Bible teacher, and best-selling author with more than 4 million books sold. A featured speaker with Women of Faith®, Sheila has reached more than 3.5 million women by artistically combining honesty, vulnerability, and humor with God's Word.
Author of the best-selling memoir Honestly and the Gold Medallion nominee for The Heartache No One Sees, Sheila's most recent release, The Shelter of God's Promises, has also been turned into a DVD curriculum and in-depth Bible study. The Gigi, God's Little Princess book and video series has won the National Retailer's Choice Award twice and is the most popular Christian brand for young girls in the United States.
Sheila co-hosted The 700 Club and her own show Heart to Heart with Sheila Walsh. She is currently completing her Masters in Theology.
Twitter @SheilaWalsh, facebook.com/#!/sheilawalshconnects
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 14, 2021
Sheila Walsh has written another encouraging and inspirational book. Holding on When You Want to Let Go came at a good time in my life when I was struggling, worn out, and wondering if God really cared about me. It helped me refocus on God's truths and Promises and remember I am not alone in my battles. The book is full of Scripture, personal accounts, and Biblical stories and insights to encourage, strengthen, comfort, and provide hope to someone struggling to hold on in their daily life. Sheila pulls from God's truths and the Psalms along with many other Scriptures as nourishment for the broken, struggling, and weary soul. Early chapters of the book include Holding on Whrn Life feels Out of Control, Holding on When God is Silent, and Holding On When You've Messed Up. Sheila then switched to chapters of how we are held by God and not alone in our struggles and hardships. These chapters include Held by the Promises of God, and Held by the One who Changed everything along with several others. The message of the book as quoted by Sheila is "Life is not a quick fix, but God is always moving, always working." Each chapter ends with 3 main points and a short prayer. These points and the prayer can be used as quick reminders to focus on in our struggles and weariness. This is a book I will be rereading to gather the nuggets to hold onto as I go about my daily life. I am adding it to my list of books to reread in times I need encouragement, strength, hope, and reminding of God's character, truth, and goodness. This book provides a message of hope during uncertain times and daily struggles of our lives. I recommend picking up a copy today for yourself and sharing it with others. I received a copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 23, 2022
Holding on When You Want to Let Go, by Sheila Walsh, is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time! It’s accessible, and easy to read and understand. Sheila authentically and openly shares her life and her struggles, all while surrounding her stories with Scripture, God’s promises, and His truth.
Let’s face it, life is hard. There are times we feel alone, or like we’ve been crying out for help and hearing only silence. We all have questions and doubts, it’s human nature. This book speaks to many of those issues with specificity and clarity.
Holding on When You Want to Let Go is filled with personal anecdotes, lessons learned in life, applicable Scripture, biblical references, ample encouragement and a heart-to-heart talk-style narrative. It’s humorous, heartfelt, and relatable.
If you are feeling weary and worn out from life’s hardships, questions and doubts, you need to pick up this book. It was exactly what I needed to read at this moment in time. This is a book I am sure I will return to time and time again. Thank you, Sheila, for sharing your heart and life with your readers, and giving us strength and purpose to carry on strong in the Lord and in this life we’ve been given.
Thank you to NetGalley and Baker Books for the free advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Let’s face it, life is hard. There are times we feel alone, or like we’ve been crying out for help and hearing only silence. We all have questions and doubts, it’s human nature. This book speaks to many of those issues with specificity and clarity.
Holding on When You Want to Let Go is filled with personal anecdotes, lessons learned in life, applicable Scripture, biblical references, ample encouragement and a heart-to-heart talk-style narrative. It’s humorous, heartfelt, and relatable.
If you are feeling weary and worn out from life’s hardships, questions and doubts, you need to pick up this book. It was exactly what I needed to read at this moment in time. This is a book I am sure I will return to time and time again. Thank you, Sheila, for sharing your heart and life with your readers, and giving us strength and purpose to carry on strong in the Lord and in this life we’ve been given.
Thank you to NetGalley and Baker Books for the free advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2021
Holding On When You Want to Let Go is yet another wonderfully written encouraging and inspirational book written by Sheila Walsh. If is full of relate-able, honest, real-life stories from her life, as well as, scripture examples of when life has felt out of control and reminders that God is always there for us even when it seems as though He’s distant and silent. So many parts of this book resonate with me but I think this quote sums it up well. “When life takes unexpected turns, it’s easy to feel as if everything is out of control; you feel alone, afraid. When God seems silent, do you wonder if you messed up?” Sheila does an exceptional job reminding us that God never leaves us. If you find yourself overwhelmed with life and barely able to go on; this book is for you as it reminds us all of God’s promises and love.
September 15, 2021
There is Hope When Life Falls Apart
Best-selling author and singer Sheila Walsh's newest book touches the reality of life with it's title: "Holding on When You Want to Let Go. Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart. The book that contains ten chapters was published by Baker Books. The first five chapters are entitled: "Holding On When... (e.g., You Feel Alone)", the next four are entitled "Held by the... (e.g., God Who rescues), and the last chapter's title is "Let Go! Your Are Being Held." Sheila starts every chapter with Bible verses and quotes from well-known persons (such as Josh McDowell, Timothy Keller, Jean de la Bruyere, and others). She finishes each chapter with a segment entitled "Holding on to Hope" that contains three statements and a prayer.
Sheila asks some very honest questions in chapter 1: "What do you do when life feels out of control? What do you do when there’s nothing you can do? What do you do when you believe that God is good, that God is in control, but nothing makes sense to you anymore?" and gives an answer: "Those feelings can be overwhelming. One of the things I’ve learned through my depression journey is that when I’m really struggling, it helps me to pray for others." I really appreciate that Sheila underlines in chapter 2: "God doesn’t toy with us. Even when we can’t always see the plan, He is still our Abba, there is a plan, and we are never, ever alone, even when it feels as if we are."
I highly appreciated Sheila's openness, her honesty about her life and experiences, and her vulnerability. She compares life to a jigsaw puzzle that sometimes is missing pieces but is "learning that the missing pieces in our lives are not gone forever. They reappear at unexpected moments, and even when it hurts for them to be put back in place, the picture is so much clearer when they are." I appreciated that she bases her book on the Bible and that the book contains Endnotes that are good for reference and help with further study about the topic. I highly recommend the book for readers who doubt that they have the strength to hold on and for readers who want to be prepared for the times when they need to hold on, when life's circumstances question if they can.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#HoldingOnWhenYouWantToLetGo #HoldingOnBook #NetGalley
Best-selling author and singer Sheila Walsh's newest book touches the reality of life with it's title: "Holding on When You Want to Let Go. Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart. The book that contains ten chapters was published by Baker Books. The first five chapters are entitled: "Holding On When... (e.g., You Feel Alone)", the next four are entitled "Held by the... (e.g., God Who rescues), and the last chapter's title is "Let Go! Your Are Being Held." Sheila starts every chapter with Bible verses and quotes from well-known persons (such as Josh McDowell, Timothy Keller, Jean de la Bruyere, and others). She finishes each chapter with a segment entitled "Holding on to Hope" that contains three statements and a prayer.
Sheila asks some very honest questions in chapter 1: "What do you do when life feels out of control? What do you do when there’s nothing you can do? What do you do when you believe that God is good, that God is in control, but nothing makes sense to you anymore?" and gives an answer: "Those feelings can be overwhelming. One of the things I’ve learned through my depression journey is that when I’m really struggling, it helps me to pray for others." I really appreciate that Sheila underlines in chapter 2: "God doesn’t toy with us. Even when we can’t always see the plan, He is still our Abba, there is a plan, and we are never, ever alone, even when it feels as if we are."
I highly appreciated Sheila's openness, her honesty about her life and experiences, and her vulnerability. She compares life to a jigsaw puzzle that sometimes is missing pieces but is "learning that the missing pieces in our lives are not gone forever. They reappear at unexpected moments, and even when it hurts for them to be put back in place, the picture is so much clearer when they are." I appreciated that she bases her book on the Bible and that the book contains Endnotes that are good for reference and help with further study about the topic. I highly recommend the book for readers who doubt that they have the strength to hold on and for readers who want to be prepared for the times when they need to hold on, when life's circumstances question if they can.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#HoldingOnWhenYouWantToLetGo #HoldingOnBook #NetGalley
March 21, 2022
Sheila Walsh’s books always speak to me, but this one, “Holding On When You Want To Let Go…” came at the exact moment when I desperately needed it. Within its pages is the steadfast reminder we can be held in the loving arms of our trustworthy God.
For years, like Sheila Walsh, I have openly admitted battling clinical depression on occasion. This is not a popular admission for someone like myself who is a local inspirational speaker/author. Yet Sheila Walsh, whose ministry is on a much larger scale, both nationally and internationally, has been a pioneer in the Christian community courageously and transparently sharing her own ongoing emotional and spiritual battles.
Although this book delves into more recent issues created by the ongoing pandemic in a personal manner. This allows those of us who can relate, to understand we are not alone in our emotional/mental health struggles. Instead we are loved by God and held in His merciful arms when life’s storms seem to be battering us unmercifully.
Ms. Walsh’s incredible research into Scripture and her particular fondness for the Book of Psalms cause this title to be both informative and uplifting. While her poignant, down-to-earth true stories balanced by her whimsical sense of humor make this an inspiring and relatable read.
This particular title encouraged me so greatly, I purchased a copy for four female friends experiencing their own challenging circumstances. To explain, one woman is a middle-aged single mother battling breast cancer, another lady is recently widowed, one dear friend lost her only adult child, and another is an older lady minister experiencing severe depression. After all, I believe this book is a great ministry resource to support folks, when they need to be reminded God loves us in the midst of our brokenness.
Plus, due to the trauma of the last couple years, Sheila intimately understands the dire effect this has had upon many of us. We simply require a crash course in our heavenly Father’s enduring promises, which this book delivers. One of my favorite quotes explains this Scottish author’s wisdom, “A steady diet of the evening news and the craziness of social media will give birth to anxiety and fear, but a steady diet of the promises of God will give us an immovable place to stand no matter what else is shaking.” (Pg. 132)
This book is a five star plus, must read!
October 13, 2021
I’ve read so many of S’s books and she just speaks directly to my heart. This book came at just the right time. Holding On When You Want to let Go is such a needed book at this time - for me and for the world. Do you question if God is there ? Do you wonder if he’s listening?? Get this book it will provide the comfort and support you are looking for!!
September 21, 2021
When all is exhausted and just a tiny string of hope remains, is it enough? Read Best selling author, Shelia Walsh's new book, "Holding On When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart." Walsh has another must-read best seller to add to her list of accomplishments in this Baker Publishing Group 240 page read. This book is divided into ten chapters that will help guide you through all of the elements you may face when life events send you on a downward spiral. After your first complete read, the chapters will serve as a great reference to help you renew your spirit when you need it as well as help guide a friend who may need the same hope.
Walsh tells about herself and her struggles that inspired in-depth accounts that we all face when we feel like giving up. She has felt out of control, alone, when God is silent, afraid, she has messed up, she has been held by the promises of God, been rescued by God, experienced His miracles, He changed everything, and she gives you courage after sharing all of this to let go and why.
As each chapter begins, Walsh shares scripture for the reader to reflect on. Stop and reread those scriptures before moving on through the chapters. Prepare yourself for what the author is about to share with you as well as how God will use this to help you in your own journey.
Walsh shares her most personal and honest truth of her struggles and how God worked in her life and rescued her. This book is a personal account of how she has been very broken at moments and has been ready to give up. God spared her from her darkest self because He was not finished with her. She has a story to tell and share with you. She can help show you how to go from rock bottom in the valley to the tip of the mountain with God as your Shepherd.
The Bible tells us to test what one shares in accordance to His Word. One can trust what Walsh shares in her book about her journey. She shares God's Word with the reader and explains how it applies in her experiences as well as how to find your truth, even when all is dark.
In chapter six, Walsh reminded me just because I am God's child does not mean I will not face pain. I have asked God, "Why do you allow so much pain in me? I have been Yours since I was a little girl." I have suffered the loss of several people recently along with many other burdens. My heart is heavy with loss and grief that serving others in their time of need puts my heart on the back burner. Why does God allow so much pain in my heart that I am broken? Then further into chapter six, Walsh explained, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. (John 16:33). Walsh continues, I have not been abandoned by God and He is with me even in my darkest of times.
One thing that stood out to me is found in Walsh's conclusion of the book. She shared how there was a piece of her that had been missing a long time and thought she would never have it back. It was something she never shared with her husband, Barry. God knew and in His perfect timing He gave it back to her. This resonated with me, because I have struggled with things myself. I do shred's these with my husband, but I too feel like those things may be gone forever. There is some finality to some of these things. By reading Walsh;s book, I have learned that in God's perfect timing, I too, may have them gifted back to me from God. In the interim, I have grown and have a stronger hope for these things in my life.
If you or someone you know have felt like letting go because life is painful, you've been hurt, or lost what means most to you, then I encourage to you grab your own copy as it becomes available on September 21, 2021. Stop living on the edge when this can help you find an all new better you through Jesus Christ. Do not let another day pass of feeling like giving up without finding out how you do not have to. Your small strand of hope is all you need to allow God the opportunity to give your life back anew to you. It can begin as soon as you open your heart and let go.
Walsh tells about herself and her struggles that inspired in-depth accounts that we all face when we feel like giving up. She has felt out of control, alone, when God is silent, afraid, she has messed up, she has been held by the promises of God, been rescued by God, experienced His miracles, He changed everything, and she gives you courage after sharing all of this to let go and why.
As each chapter begins, Walsh shares scripture for the reader to reflect on. Stop and reread those scriptures before moving on through the chapters. Prepare yourself for what the author is about to share with you as well as how God will use this to help you in your own journey.
Walsh shares her most personal and honest truth of her struggles and how God worked in her life and rescued her. This book is a personal account of how she has been very broken at moments and has been ready to give up. God spared her from her darkest self because He was not finished with her. She has a story to tell and share with you. She can help show you how to go from rock bottom in the valley to the tip of the mountain with God as your Shepherd.
The Bible tells us to test what one shares in accordance to His Word. One can trust what Walsh shares in her book about her journey. She shares God's Word with the reader and explains how it applies in her experiences as well as how to find your truth, even when all is dark.
In chapter six, Walsh reminded me just because I am God's child does not mean I will not face pain. I have asked God, "Why do you allow so much pain in me? I have been Yours since I was a little girl." I have suffered the loss of several people recently along with many other burdens. My heart is heavy with loss and grief that serving others in their time of need puts my heart on the back burner. Why does God allow so much pain in my heart that I am broken? Then further into chapter six, Walsh explained, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. (John 16:33). Walsh continues, I have not been abandoned by God and He is with me even in my darkest of times.
One thing that stood out to me is found in Walsh's conclusion of the book. She shared how there was a piece of her that had been missing a long time and thought she would never have it back. It was something she never shared with her husband, Barry. God knew and in His perfect timing He gave it back to her. This resonated with me, because I have struggled with things myself. I do shred's these with my husband, but I too feel like those things may be gone forever. There is some finality to some of these things. By reading Walsh;s book, I have learned that in God's perfect timing, I too, may have them gifted back to me from God. In the interim, I have grown and have a stronger hope for these things in my life.
If you or someone you know have felt like letting go because life is painful, you've been hurt, or lost what means most to you, then I encourage to you grab your own copy as it becomes available on September 21, 2021. Stop living on the edge when this can help you find an all new better you through Jesus Christ. Do not let another day pass of feeling like giving up without finding out how you do not have to. Your small strand of hope is all you need to allow God the opportunity to give your life back anew to you. It can begin as soon as you open your heart and let go.
September 18, 2021
Sheila Walsh does it again! When the world is offering very little and mostly negativity, Sheila offers an inspirational and uplifting guide to “Holding On When You Want To Let Go.” When life seems to be completely at loose ends, falling apart and a complete mess, this gives us a reminder that we are not alone. We can let go and let God into our lives and receive the blessings He has meant for us. Through some of her personal struggles, she presents very relatable instances of challenges we all face. The details may not be the identical, but the feelings of hopelessness are the same. Sheila conveys inspiration through God’s Word helping us to realize God has a plan and even though it may not seem like it, He is holding us, if we would just let Him. God rescues us and keeps His promises. This book provides a message of hope during particularly difficult times and individual challenges in many people’s lives. I realize that I need to put down my flour sack (Chapter 6) and fall into the power of God , His forgiveness and just be held. I will certainly be reading this book again to gather yet more inspiration for my daily life and to dive a little deeper into Scriptures. It will be useful in times that again I need encouragement and a reminder of God’s insurmountable love, promises and forgiveness. I highly recommend this book for you and as a gift for others. Thank you, Sheila!
September 19, 2021
Whatever season you are going through right now and need some encouragement to not give up, Sheila gives this encouragement in her book, "Holding on When you Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart". This is a go to book I plan on reading again and lingering in areas the extra encouragement and wisdom is needed. Some chapters deal with holding on when feeling alone, when your afraid or you feel you messed us. Also being Held by, the Promises of God, by the God Who Rescues and the God of Miracles. Many other chapters also.
One sentence of the many that spoke to me was, "Love falls gently on each wound like snow upon the frozen ground, and life that seemed a distant dream will waken in the promised spring." pg 139
My word I chose to focus on this year was hope. Through Shelia honest and wise words she offers hope for those dealing with loss or hurts in any area of their life. I would encourage getting at least 2 copies. One for yourself and one for a friend you know that is also clinging to hope.
One sentence of the many that spoke to me was, "Love falls gently on each wound like snow upon the frozen ground, and life that seemed a distant dream will waken in the promised spring." pg 139
My word I chose to focus on this year was hope. Through Shelia honest and wise words she offers hope for those dealing with loss or hurts in any area of their life. I would encourage getting at least 2 copies. One for yourself and one for a friend you know that is also clinging to hope.
September 17, 2021
You're walking along living life and all seems to be great. Suddenly, you crash. You cry, you isolate and you're afraid someone might think you're weird if anyone knew you were battling depression. Be ashamed no more. Sheila Walsh has given us a wonderfully transparent look at what she has gone through in her life, not once, but at least twice. But then, she offers us so much hope and wisdom from what she learned from her experiences. In Holding On When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart, Sheila shares that it's ok to not be ok. The most impactful phrase in the book for me was, "I'm not fixed, I'm redeemed." Brought tears to my eyes.
Whether you are walking the lonely path of depression or love someone who is, this is the book for you. While you're at it, pick up the study that goes with it! You will be so blessed!
Whether you are walking the lonely path of depression or love someone who is, this is the book for you. While you're at it, pick up the study that goes with it! You will be so blessed!
September 18, 2021
Who can honestly say they've never wanted to let go, give up, or give in while in the midst of struggles? In exposing her own vulnerabilities, Sheila Walsh has made it okay for us to look at ourselves and say "Yep, me too. I've been there I'm there now." With authentic empathy and compassion, Sheila relates her personal experiences and points us back to the One who truly understands all that we go through. Using Biblical examples and Scriptures, she encourages us and lets us know that there is hope to be found even in the middle of hard and messy times, even when we feel like life is crumbling all around us. Her writing is engaging and this book makes you feel as if you could sit down next to her, share a cup of coffee and bond over shared life experiences.
September 21, 2021
Sheila Walsh's newest book, "Holding on When You Want to Let Go" is very intentionally written to people who are struggling with virtually anything in their life, while also addressing struggles specific to the pandemic and how it has affected so many people's lives so strongly. Sheila is, as always, very transparent about her own struggles, and that's what makes her books so relatable. I struggle a lot with uncertainty and Sheila shared many times throughout the book how we can know that God is always and has always been in control. The reminder that God is never out of control was much needed and very comforting to me, even in the midst of anxiety and uncertainty. Sheila tells us that God has all the "puzzle pieces" of our lives and gives them to us in His perfect timing. If you ever struggle with feeling like you just can't find a reason to hold on to hope anymore and everything feels completely out of control, this book will soothe your soul.
October 18, 2021
I was able to get my hands on an early copy of Holding on When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life Is Falling Apart and once I started to read it, I could not put it down. Having read Sheila Walsh's previous books, I wanted to delve into her newest book. I've always admired her willingness to share her transparent history and battle with depression. As mentioned, this book did not disappoint, as she provided hope and how she kept her faith, even in the darkest of times. I would recommend this book for anyone who may need encouragement and a reminder that God is always in control through the valleys that we face. We are never alone, and He is always with us!
Read
September 21, 2021When I feel overwhelmed, I tend to retreat into myself. I strive not to be judged by others, but I have to remember the only one whom can judge me is God. We try to relate to others, but that isn't the right way to live. At times i feel that my life is completely out of control, when I need to remember that is God is always in control. No matter where I am in my life and story, I need to remember that I am not alone. God is always right there with me.
Sheila is open and honest in her vulnerability in this book, it provides hope for the daily struggles in our lives. Gods never ending love and all consuming grace will always be there to help along the way.
Sheila is open and honest in her vulnerability in this book, it provides hope for the daily struggles in our lives. Gods never ending love and all consuming grace will always be there to help along the way.
September 21, 2021
When all is exhausted and just a tiny string of hope remains, is it enough? Read Best selling author, Shelia Walsh's new book, "Holding On When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart." Walsh has another must-read best seller to add to her list of accomplishments in this Baker Publishing Group 240 page read. This book is divided into ten chapters that will help guide you through all of the elements you may face when life events send you on a downward spiral. After your first complete read, the chapters will serve as a great reference to help you renew your spirit when you need it as well as help guide a friend who may need the same hope.
Walsh tells about herself and her struggles that inspired in-depth accounts that we all face when we feel like giving up. She has felt out of control, alone, when God is silent, afraid, she has messed up, she has been held by the promises of God, been rescued by God, experienced His miracles, He changed everything, and she gives you courage after sharing all of this to let go and why.
As each chapter begins, Walsh shares scripture for the reader to reflect on. Stop and reread those scriptures before moving on through the chapters. Prepare yourself for what the author is about to share with you as well as how God will use this to help you in your own journey.
Walsh shares her most personal and honest truth of her struggles and how God worked in her life and rescued her. This book is a personal account of how she has been very broken at moments and has been ready to give up. God spared her from her darkest self because He was not finished with her. She has a story to tell and share with you. She can help show you how to go from rock bottom in the valley to the tip of the mountain with God as your Shepherd.
The Bible tells us to test what one shares in accordance to His Word. One can trust what Walsh shares in her book about her journey. She shares God's Word with the reader and explains how it applies in her experiences as well as how to find your truth, even when all is dark.
In chapter six, Walsh reminded me just because I am God's child does not mean I will not face pain. I have asked God, "Why do you allow so much pain in me? I have been Yours since I was a little girl." I have suffered the loss of several people recently along with many other burdens. My heart is heavy with loss and grief that serving others in their time of need puts my heart on the back burner. Why does God allow so much pain in my heart that I am broken? Then further into chapter six, Walsh explained, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. (John 16:33). Walsh continues, I have not been abandoned by God and He is with me even in my darkest of times.
One thing that stood out to me is found in Walsh's conclusion of the book. She shared how there was a piece of her that had been missing a long time and thought she would never have it back. It was something she never shared with her husband, Barry. God knew and in His perfect timing He gave it back to her. This resonated with me, because I have struggled with things myself. I do shred's these with my husband, but I too feel like those things may be gone forever. There is some finality to some of these things. By reading Walsh;s book, I have learned that in God's perfect timing, I too, may have them gifted back to me from God. In the interim, I have grown and have a stronger hope for these things in my life.
If you or someone you know have felt like letting go because life is painful, you've been hurt, or lost what means most to you, then I encourage to you grab your own copy as it becomes available on September 21, 2021. Stop living on the edge when this can help you find an all new better you through Jesus Christ. Do not let another day pass of feeling like giving up without finding out how you do not have to. Your small strand of hope is all you need to allow God the opportunity to give your life back anew to you. It can begin as soon as you open your heart and let go.
Walsh tells about herself and her struggles that inspired in-depth accounts that we all face when we feel like giving up. She has felt out of control, alone, when God is silent, afraid, she has messed up, she has been held by the promises of God, been rescued by God, experienced His miracles, He changed everything, and she gives you courage after sharing all of this to let go and why.
As each chapter begins, Walsh shares scripture for the reader to reflect on. Stop and reread those scriptures before moving on through the chapters. Prepare yourself for what the author is about to share with you as well as how God will use this to help you in your own journey.
Walsh shares her most personal and honest truth of her struggles and how God worked in her life and rescued her. This book is a personal account of how she has been very broken at moments and has been ready to give up. God spared her from her darkest self because He was not finished with her. She has a story to tell and share with you. She can help show you how to go from rock bottom in the valley to the tip of the mountain with God as your Shepherd.
The Bible tells us to test what one shares in accordance to His Word. One can trust what Walsh shares in her book about her journey. She shares God's Word with the reader and explains how it applies in her experiences as well as how to find your truth, even when all is dark.
In chapter six, Walsh reminded me just because I am God's child does not mean I will not face pain. I have asked God, "Why do you allow so much pain in me? I have been Yours since I was a little girl." I have suffered the loss of several people recently along with many other burdens. My heart is heavy with loss and grief that serving others in their time of need puts my heart on the back burner. Why does God allow so much pain in my heart that I am broken? Then further into chapter six, Walsh explained, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. (John 16:33). Walsh continues, I have not been abandoned by God and He is with me even in my darkest of times.
One thing that stood out to me is found in Walsh's conclusion of the book. She shared how there was a piece of her that had been missing a long time and thought she would never have it back. It was something she never shared with her husband, Barry. God knew and in His perfect timing He gave it back to her. This resonated with me, because I have struggled with things myself. I do shred's these with my husband, but I too feel like those things may be gone forever. There is some finality to some of these things. By reading Walsh;s book, I have learned that in God's perfect timing, I too, may have them gifted back to me from God. In the interim, I have grown and have a stronger hope for these things in my life.
If you or someone you know have felt like letting go because life is painful, you've been hurt, or lost what means most to you, then I encourage to you grab your own copy as it becomes available on September 21, 2021. Stop living on the edge when this can help you find an all new better you through Jesus Christ. Do not let another day pass of feeling like giving up without finding out how you do not have to. Your small strand of hope is all you need to allow God the opportunity to give your life back anew to you. It can begin as soon as you open your heart and let go.
September 21, 2021
I admit when I first saw the title (without the subtitle), I thought it might be a bit stark or overdramatic; yet, I wanted desperatly to read it. I knew that Shelia had a long history and battle with depression and that's always something I've appreciated about her -her willingness to share and be transparent about it. She gives hope to those who also trudge through the same darkness. But "wanting to let go," Ohhh, I was worried.
At the same time, I was in the middle of my own battles of wanting to let go and I just didn't realize or have a name for it. I began the book in the middle of the fourth wave of this Pandemic that re-started this depression battle for many of us. My grandmother passed away at the beginning of COVID, but I held on to hope and was able to remain the family and work cheerleader. Then May 2021 hit with some huge disappointments and I began to lose that abliity to keep cheering. But what do you do? Sometimes you get to a point when you don't know what or how to pray; where the prayers have been the same and remain seemingly unanswered.
Shelia gets to the point quickly because her point isn't about her new cyle with depession; it chronicles her ablity to find the Lord quickly and understand his love so much more deeply. It took me while to realize I was in trouble and even longer to seek the correct help. I started with a therapist, but it's been empty, even counter-productive. Then I picked up Shelia's book and started finding those strands of hope that she ever so carefully wove into a rescue rope. Sheila doesn't talk as much about her own depression as she does about God's love for her and she puts it in a way that helps you start to see some of that hope rope. The correct help is God, but when he seems so far and silent, how is he that help? Shelia talks about that throughout the book and in ways I never realized.
Chapter 2 particulary resonated with me. She discusses being Alone vs. Lonely. As an introvert, I've been alone for a long time, no problem. But at the time of reading, I was at home with COVID & a sick kid. My husband barely checked on me; and even though I worked, no one at work (except one friend on leave) actually asked how I was holding up. I was horribly lonely and have been for a long while, catching COVID just sealed it and pointed it out loud and clear. It shattered the last of my fragile defenses.
Holding on When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life Is Falling Apart gave me a bit of a lifeline to cling to as I learned more and more about God's love for me & also feel like a dear friend (Shelia) was with me. Then I got to chapter 3 and a truth in there that I need to get painted on a sign. "Satan can't hurt God, so his plan is to hurt how we see God....if he can get us to ....question the love of God, he has scored a victory." Wow. Mic Drop.
But as you keep reading, and Shelia keeps sharing these beautiful truths, you start to see the hope rope come closer. I love that she actually went to seminary and can explain the meaning behind a text, an image, or even a simple word. This is how she weaves the truth of Christ and his love into a hope we can cling to as life continues falling apart.
I'm still reading, but I'm savoring Shelia's imagry and the truths she presents. I'm espeically excited to listen to the book when I receive the Audio Book copy. Sheila's sweet voice with her Scottish accent is such a treasure to listen to, and I have truly felt like she's on the phone with me, telling me the truthes my thristy soul so despeartely needs to hear. I highly recommend this book and hope that it gives you a hope to cling to as well.
At the same time, I was in the middle of my own battles of wanting to let go and I just didn't realize or have a name for it. I began the book in the middle of the fourth wave of this Pandemic that re-started this depression battle for many of us. My grandmother passed away at the beginning of COVID, but I held on to hope and was able to remain the family and work cheerleader. Then May 2021 hit with some huge disappointments and I began to lose that abliity to keep cheering. But what do you do? Sometimes you get to a point when you don't know what or how to pray; where the prayers have been the same and remain seemingly unanswered.
Shelia gets to the point quickly because her point isn't about her new cyle with depession; it chronicles her ablity to find the Lord quickly and understand his love so much more deeply. It took me while to realize I was in trouble and even longer to seek the correct help. I started with a therapist, but it's been empty, even counter-productive. Then I picked up Shelia's book and started finding those strands of hope that she ever so carefully wove into a rescue rope. Sheila doesn't talk as much about her own depression as she does about God's love for her and she puts it in a way that helps you start to see some of that hope rope. The correct help is God, but when he seems so far and silent, how is he that help? Shelia talks about that throughout the book and in ways I never realized.
Chapter 2 particulary resonated with me. She discusses being Alone vs. Lonely. As an introvert, I've been alone for a long time, no problem. But at the time of reading, I was at home with COVID & a sick kid. My husband barely checked on me; and even though I worked, no one at work (except one friend on leave) actually asked how I was holding up. I was horribly lonely and have been for a long while, catching COVID just sealed it and pointed it out loud and clear. It shattered the last of my fragile defenses.
Holding on When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life Is Falling Apart gave me a bit of a lifeline to cling to as I learned more and more about God's love for me & also feel like a dear friend (Shelia) was with me. Then I got to chapter 3 and a truth in there that I need to get painted on a sign. "Satan can't hurt God, so his plan is to hurt how we see God....if he can get us to ....question the love of God, he has scored a victory." Wow. Mic Drop.
But as you keep reading, and Shelia keeps sharing these beautiful truths, you start to see the hope rope come closer. I love that she actually went to seminary and can explain the meaning behind a text, an image, or even a simple word. This is how she weaves the truth of Christ and his love into a hope we can cling to as life continues falling apart.
I'm still reading, but I'm savoring Shelia's imagry and the truths she presents. I'm espeically excited to listen to the book when I receive the Audio Book copy. Sheila's sweet voice with her Scottish accent is such a treasure to listen to, and I have truly felt like she's on the phone with me, telling me the truthes my thristy soul so despeartely needs to hear. I highly recommend this book and hope that it gives you a hope to cling to as well.
December 10, 2022
This fabulous book is the very best that I have read by Sheila Walsh! If you are not familiar with her, she is a Christian sister who is scripture-oriented and loves the Lord with all her heart. She talks and writes about certain challenges with scripture, compassion, and experience. Many people avoid talking about depression; some even think that if Christians are clinically depressed, they don’t have enough faith.
Are you or someone you love suffering from depression? Has it been the kind of thing that might leave for a long period of time and return? Whether it is for yourself or another person, I’ve found the best time to read a book like this when one is doing well. If I waited to rush into a bookstore or online seller when I feel as if the floor is dropping away, and didn’t find something helpful quickly, I just might not bother. This time, I purchased the book, read the book and did the Bible study, and know the resource I have if I need it, or if a friend is suffering and needs someone to hear their heart.
Absolutely God is my Healer. He speaks to me in the Bible. Just as in grief or twelve-step groups, there is much to be gained from listening to someone who has been there. That is one of the things Sheila Walsh is for me; she has been there, and she understands. She has had Christian counselors who hold out the light of Christ when the world seems dark. Ms. Walsh shares hope from the promises of God, the lives of those who lived in Bible times, and her own experience. For as long as I’ve heard her or read her books, she is transparent about her own struggles with depression and even, at times, suicidal tendencies. She also has a gentle sense of humor that brings relief – sometimes that we aren’t the only ones who forget to plug in the power cord before switching the button to the “on” position.
Ultimately, she points us to the One who is holding us, the One who hears us, who gave up everything for us to have heaven as our final destination. I highly recommend this book to anyone who lives with, or knows someone who lives with, clinical depression, who wants to know more about the God who holds us and find the sweet hope on which to hold.
Study Guide:
The study guide is meant to be used with the book of the same name, and, if available, the video series. Excerpts are included in the study guide. Questions are very fitting and thought provoking. Prayer is encouraged. As with the book, the author points to the Lord, our Healer, the One who holds us. She includes her own experience with honesty and transparency. I highly recommend using it, as it is very beneficial to the reader.
Are you or someone you love suffering from depression? Has it been the kind of thing that might leave for a long period of time and return? Whether it is for yourself or another person, I’ve found the best time to read a book like this when one is doing well. If I waited to rush into a bookstore or online seller when I feel as if the floor is dropping away, and didn’t find something helpful quickly, I just might not bother. This time, I purchased the book, read the book and did the Bible study, and know the resource I have if I need it, or if a friend is suffering and needs someone to hear their heart.
Absolutely God is my Healer. He speaks to me in the Bible. Just as in grief or twelve-step groups, there is much to be gained from listening to someone who has been there. That is one of the things Sheila Walsh is for me; she has been there, and she understands. She has had Christian counselors who hold out the light of Christ when the world seems dark. Ms. Walsh shares hope from the promises of God, the lives of those who lived in Bible times, and her own experience. For as long as I’ve heard her or read her books, she is transparent about her own struggles with depression and even, at times, suicidal tendencies. She also has a gentle sense of humor that brings relief – sometimes that we aren’t the only ones who forget to plug in the power cord before switching the button to the “on” position.
Ultimately, she points us to the One who is holding us, the One who hears us, who gave up everything for us to have heaven as our final destination. I highly recommend this book to anyone who lives with, or knows someone who lives with, clinical depression, who wants to know more about the God who holds us and find the sweet hope on which to hold.
Study Guide:
The study guide is meant to be used with the book of the same name, and, if available, the video series. Excerpts are included in the study guide. Questions are very fitting and thought provoking. Prayer is encouraged. As with the book, the author points to the Lord, our Healer, the One who holds us. She includes her own experience with honesty and transparency. I highly recommend using it, as it is very beneficial to the reader.
September 22, 2021
Wow. Just wow. Sheila’s raw and straightforward message resonates in my heart once again. At first, it’s hard to fathom how a young girl found comfort in the debris of a castle in Scotland… but honestly, we all have those broken places that just seem to best fit when we feel alone. The pandemic exposed a lot of loneliness for so many, including Sheila who writes that, “Feelings can be powerful liars” and to add insult to injury, we then face “One of the greatest challenges to our faith- when the waves of past mistakes or wrong choices often wash upon the shore of our souls when things go wrong.” Holding On When You Want To Let Go clearly points us to the wondrous power of Tetelestai. We need to hold onto and embrace that sacred promise with our outstretched arms and often tear stained faces in every situation that may otherwise drag us deeper into the lonely places. I so value the genuineness of Sheila’s heart's cry with raised arms stretched to the sky in full surrender. And, I can only imagine the Lord’s posture and outstretched arms, scooping her close- even though she’s felt forgotten or looked over or full of pain- where she can clearly see that her name is inscribed on the palm of His mighty hand, and she is rescued, redeemed and held. This can be our story, too. We may, or may not, intentionally cover up the dark spaces that we just can’t seem to face or examine any deeper; but trusting in our good Shepherd, who wants to invade every nook and cranny of our heart and mind, actually transports us to His presence so the miraculous work of holding on and letting go can begin. This book is a journey of companionship and grace for all who, despite feeling broken, are desperately trying to hold on- even if only by a thread. There is peace knowing that, no matter what, we are held.
September 21, 2021
Sheila Walsh is an inspiring Christian author who shares her personal life, struggles and successes and triumphs with us. I was given the privilege to review an early release copy of this book: Holding on When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart.
If we are honest, we have all been there at some point in our lives. Feeling shame, feeling alone, feeling “less than” or “not good enough”. Sheila wrote this in 2020 in the midst of the fear, anxiety, aloneness and uncertainty of coping with living in a pandemic. Mixing personal stories with Scripture and honesty
Sheila gives 5 chapters of “Holding On” - “…When Life Feels Out of Control”
-“…When You Feel Alone”
-“…When God is Silent”
-“…When You’re Afraid”
-“…When You’ve Messed Up”
Then she helps guide us to what it means to Be Held.
-“Held by the Promises of God”
-“Held by the God Who Rescues”
-“Held by the God of Miracles”
-“Held by the One Who Changed Everything”
And finally to “Let Go! You Are Being Held”
At the end of each chapter is an overview of truths.
“The greater truth is this: nothing was or ever has been out of God’s control. God has always been in control.”
“Sometimes the greatest ongoing battle we face isn’t dealing with what has been done to us but dealing with how that action has marred our own image of who we are in Christ. Unfortunately, many of us live with those distorted images every day of our lives.”
This book is for anyone who feels alone, feels like they’ve lost their grip and reminds us of our God, the One who always Holds us close, even when we doubt His Presence.
If we are honest, we have all been there at some point in our lives. Feeling shame, feeling alone, feeling “less than” or “not good enough”. Sheila wrote this in 2020 in the midst of the fear, anxiety, aloneness and uncertainty of coping with living in a pandemic. Mixing personal stories with Scripture and honesty
Sheila gives 5 chapters of “Holding On” - “…When Life Feels Out of Control”
-“…When You Feel Alone”
-“…When God is Silent”
-“…When You’re Afraid”
-“…When You’ve Messed Up”
Then she helps guide us to what it means to Be Held.
-“Held by the Promises of God”
-“Held by the God Who Rescues”
-“Held by the God of Miracles”
-“Held by the One Who Changed Everything”
And finally to “Let Go! You Are Being Held”
At the end of each chapter is an overview of truths.
“The greater truth is this: nothing was or ever has been out of God’s control. God has always been in control.”
“Sometimes the greatest ongoing battle we face isn’t dealing with what has been done to us but dealing with how that action has marred our own image of who we are in Christ. Unfortunately, many of us live with those distorted images every day of our lives.”
This book is for anyone who feels alone, feels like they’ve lost their grip and reminds us of our God, the One who always Holds us close, even when we doubt His Presence.
September 20, 2021
When you think about your story, are you living the life you imagined? Sometimes when we are overwhelmed, we are tempted to retreat into ourselves. We don't want to be judged or shamed. We can't relate to others when we are barely holding on ourselves. We feel our lives are out of control. But ironically, they were never under our control - God has always been in control. He is holding all the pieces of your life in His hands. No matter how alone you feel, God is always there- holding you. He sees your brokenness, He knows you, He understands you, He's holding all the pieces of your story and He will never, ever abandon you. You are held in the arms of the One who is everything. He will write the final chapter.
No matter what is going on in your life right now, in difficult places or hopeless situations remember:
You are not alone.
You are not abandoned.
You are seen.
You are loved.
You are believed.
You are forgiven.
You are free.
Hold on to Jesus with everything that's in you and on the days when you feel yourself slipping, remember that you are being held!
This book " Holding on When You Want to Let Go" by Shelia Walsh will speak to your heart - it definitely spoke to mine. I appreciate Shelia's openness and vulnerability. This book provides hope for the daily struggles of life, when we don't have words to express how we feel. It reminds us to never be ashamed or afraid to bring our struggles and questions to God, but to rest in the promise of His love and grace.
No matter what is going on in your life right now, in difficult places or hopeless situations remember:
You are not alone.
You are not abandoned.
You are seen.
You are loved.
You are believed.
You are forgiven.
You are free.
Hold on to Jesus with everything that's in you and on the days when you feel yourself slipping, remember that you are being held!
This book " Holding on When You Want to Let Go" by Shelia Walsh will speak to your heart - it definitely spoke to mine. I appreciate Shelia's openness and vulnerability. This book provides hope for the daily struggles of life, when we don't have words to express how we feel. It reminds us to never be ashamed or afraid to bring our struggles and questions to God, but to rest in the promise of His love and grace.
November 2, 2021
Sheila Walsh is an amazing speaker and author who teaches about God's love for us, even when we experience the hardships of life.
Every chapter of this book is filled with Sheila's personal experiences and insights on holding onto God's promises when life seems out of control or more than we can handle. But chapter 8 - Held by the God of Miracles - definitely resonated the most with me. We tend to think of miracles as only the monumental events that God is capable of performing - healing the sick and disabled, raising the dead or feeding thousands with a few fish and bread.
As Sheila states, Jesus told his disciples, "I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father" (John 14:12). How can we do greater works than Jesus? I can't change water to wine or raise the dead, can you?
As I read Sheila's discussion of this verse, I was reminded that actions that we do every day may seem small to us but they are huge to others. Smiling at someone, saying an encouraging word to a friend or coworker, helping the sick or elderly, filling food bags for hungry children or boxes at a local food pantry may not seem like greater works than Jesus did while on Earth, but to the people who need them, they can be life changing miracles that demonstrate God's love.
As I read the book, I found myself reading a chapter (or pieces of a chapter) and digesting what I read before moving on. I definitely recommend Holding On When You Want to Let Go by Sheila Walsh. You will not be disappointed.
Every chapter of this book is filled with Sheila's personal experiences and insights on holding onto God's promises when life seems out of control or more than we can handle. But chapter 8 - Held by the God of Miracles - definitely resonated the most with me. We tend to think of miracles as only the monumental events that God is capable of performing - healing the sick and disabled, raising the dead or feeding thousands with a few fish and bread.
As Sheila states, Jesus told his disciples, "I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father" (John 14:12). How can we do greater works than Jesus? I can't change water to wine or raise the dead, can you?
As I read Sheila's discussion of this verse, I was reminded that actions that we do every day may seem small to us but they are huge to others. Smiling at someone, saying an encouraging word to a friend or coworker, helping the sick or elderly, filling food bags for hungry children or boxes at a local food pantry may not seem like greater works than Jesus did while on Earth, but to the people who need them, they can be life changing miracles that demonstrate God's love.
As I read the book, I found myself reading a chapter (or pieces of a chapter) and digesting what I read before moving on. I definitely recommend Holding On When You Want to Let Go by Sheila Walsh. You will not be disappointed.
September 20, 2021
"We need the companionship of brokenness, of people who love God but don't have all the answers."
Sheila Walsh has outdone herself again with "Holding on When You Want to Let Go." From cover to cover, Walsh uses an impactful combination of scripture and personal experiences and delivers them in a way in which she could be having tea in the living room with a small group.
As an adult that continues to deal with the depression and anxiety that stems from childhood trauma, I have found such encouragement and community in Walsh's writing. "Holding on When You Want to Let Go" has redefined what repentance and forgiveness look like to me and has helped me to better understand what fully trusting God means. When we fully give God control, we are trusting he can see something we can't, such as how much we have grown in a certain area of our faith or how close we are to weathering a storm, even when it feels like we can’t take any more.
If 2020 and 2021 needed a debriefing book---this is it. Walsh's rawness and vulnerability invite anyone who has ever struggled and all the weary-hearted to be a part of a community of brokenness, where she then humbly leads us to the cross and to the One who does more than fix us...He redeems us.
Sheila Walsh has outdone herself again with "Holding on When You Want to Let Go." From cover to cover, Walsh uses an impactful combination of scripture and personal experiences and delivers them in a way in which she could be having tea in the living room with a small group.
As an adult that continues to deal with the depression and anxiety that stems from childhood trauma, I have found such encouragement and community in Walsh's writing. "Holding on When You Want to Let Go" has redefined what repentance and forgiveness look like to me and has helped me to better understand what fully trusting God means. When we fully give God control, we are trusting he can see something we can't, such as how much we have grown in a certain area of our faith or how close we are to weathering a storm, even when it feels like we can’t take any more.
If 2020 and 2021 needed a debriefing book---this is it. Walsh's rawness and vulnerability invite anyone who has ever struggled and all the weary-hearted to be a part of a community of brokenness, where she then humbly leads us to the cross and to the One who does more than fix us...He redeems us.
September 24, 2021
“For a time such as this.” And just like these words were spoken to Esther thousands of years ago, the same thing could be said about Sheila Walsh’s new book Holding On When You Want To Let Go. Through her vulnerability of telling her own struggles with depression and learning how to find God working in her life over the last year and a half, Sheila has given us all a guidebook on how to navigate the dark valleys in our own lives. The book is full of hope for anyone wondering if God really cares or even if He is even there. In these pages you will find personal stories, Scripture to lighten your way, encouragement, and comfort and hopefully you will discover that God is always present, always working and always loving us.
I really enjoyed the main points and prayer at the end of each chapter. I will be referring to this book often in the months and years ahead. I will also be gifting it to special people in my life.
Some of my favorite lines of the book are:
“It really is okay not to be okay. You don’t have to be perfect. You are perfectly loved just as you are.”
“We let go of what we cannot keep to hold on to our Father who will never let us go.”
“God made my life complete when I gave Him all the pieces.”
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book for review. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255."
I really enjoyed the main points and prayer at the end of each chapter. I will be referring to this book often in the months and years ahead. I will also be gifting it to special people in my life.
Some of my favorite lines of the book are:
“It really is okay not to be okay. You don’t have to be perfect. You are perfectly loved just as you are.”
“We let go of what we cannot keep to hold on to our Father who will never let us go.”
“God made my life complete when I gave Him all the pieces.”
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book for review. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255."
May 9, 2022
I give this encouraging and hope filled book a 4.5! Sheila Walsh is a good storyteller and tells the story of how God is faithful and true in the midst of hard times.
Walsh closes each chapter with 3 Holding on to Hope Points- Truths to tell yourself! Here are some highlights.
"No matter how things appear, God is in control.
Anchor yourself to the Word of God, it holds the truth.
Even when we can't see God's plan, He is working. Even when we can't feel His presence, He is working.
Whether you get the answer you pray for or the answer you fear, God is always with you. He will never fail you or abandon you.
There is life-changing power in the name of the Lord.
When everything else around you is shifting, God's Word remains steadfast.
Miracles change our circumstances; obedience changes our hearts.
Christ is our hope no matter what happens in this world.
Jesus knows you, He understands you, He is holding all the pieces of your story, and He will never let you go.
You don't have to be fixed; you're redeemed.
The missing pieces of your story are in the safest hands of all-Jesus's."
September 23, 2021
Sheila’s newest book is her best yet, and that’s saying something!! Her wit and humor combined with her vulnerability and honesty bring a whole new dimension to typical Christian self help genres. In this book, Sheila opens up about her personal story of clinical depression during her dark time of isolation due to the covid pandemic and how God has used that time to grow her into a different person. She shares how God’s promises and healing has changed her life and the steps she took to get to a much more peaceful and fearless place. What spoke to me the most is the way she shares about her struggle with loneliness, even when she’s in a room full of people, and the hopelessness that it causes. She teaches that we need to anchor ourselves to the Word of God because it alone holds the truth in the face of shame. When the lies of loneliness plague us and and try to tell us we are alone… we need wait in God’s presence while He’s working in our lives and hold on to the fact that we are NEVER EVER alone even when it feels as if we are. Oh... and I LOVE that she discusses the names of God and explains what each means.
Trust me when I say... you NEED to read this book if you are now, or have ever struggled with loneliness, fear, shame, depression, suicide, or felt like letting go. God loves you more than you can ever comprehend no matter who or what you are, and He is holding onto you. He's got you, so TRUST HIM and don't let go!
Trust me when I say... you NEED to read this book if you are now, or have ever struggled with loneliness, fear, shame, depression, suicide, or felt like letting go. God loves you more than you can ever comprehend no matter who or what you are, and He is holding onto you. He's got you, so TRUST HIM and don't let go!
September 22, 2021
Such Hope
Since I was a teenager Sheila has ministered to my life. Reading Holding On When You Want to Let Go was yet another time her words gave hope and encouragement. This book was written with candor, hope and empathy. The divine timeliness of its release cannot be denied. So many peoples lives are in turmoil and this book provides a lifeline because Sheila has been there. I was able to read this during my own time off uncertainties. Now I can say things are better but it took months for a resolution. One of the truths that resonated so deeply with me is that God wants our whole self...the good, bad, messy and ugly. I tend to isolate myself when I'm struggling so it was something I needed to hear and absorb. If you're struggling with hopelessness and want to quit, read this book. Buy extra copies to give to your friends. Sheila was a vessel God used to write words of light and life during a time of unrest and uncertainty. This book will surely minister to everyone who reads it.
Since I was a teenager Sheila has ministered to my life. Reading Holding On When You Want to Let Go was yet another time her words gave hope and encouragement. This book was written with candor, hope and empathy. The divine timeliness of its release cannot be denied. So many peoples lives are in turmoil and this book provides a lifeline because Sheila has been there. I was able to read this during my own time off uncertainties. Now I can say things are better but it took months for a resolution. One of the truths that resonated so deeply with me is that God wants our whole self...the good, bad, messy and ugly. I tend to isolate myself when I'm struggling so it was something I needed to hear and absorb. If you're struggling with hopelessness and want to quit, read this book. Buy extra copies to give to your friends. Sheila was a vessel God used to write words of light and life during a time of unrest and uncertainty. This book will surely minister to everyone who reads it.
March 20, 2022
Outstanding book and Bible Study
First of all, this review is being written by Karen Kutruff not Patrick, and I absolutely loved this book. I read it as part of an online Bible Study. Sheila has a way of bringing wit and wisdom together to make studying the Bible fun and in this case discussing topics that are not easy to discuss. Through her own experiences she is able to help others learn to put their trust I the One who came to save us all.
I've lived listening to Shelia do interviews with Dr. David Jeremiah and others as well as watch her own Life Today. She's sincere and her teaching comes from a place of true Christianity and love.
If you're feeling like you just can't hold on and life is too overwhelming this book is for you. It's filled with truths and advice that no other secular book can help you with. And go to her website she loves to converse with you on there. You won't be disappointed.
First of all, this review is being written by Karen Kutruff not Patrick, and I absolutely loved this book. I read it as part of an online Bible Study. Sheila has a way of bringing wit and wisdom together to make studying the Bible fun and in this case discussing topics that are not easy to discuss. Through her own experiences she is able to help others learn to put their trust I the One who came to save us all.
I've lived listening to Shelia do interviews with Dr. David Jeremiah and others as well as watch her own Life Today. She's sincere and her teaching comes from a place of true Christianity and love.
If you're feeling like you just can't hold on and life is too overwhelming this book is for you. It's filled with truths and advice that no other secular book can help you with. And go to her website she loves to converse with you on there. You won't be disappointed.
September 21, 2021
I had been seeing snippets of Sheila’s book "Holding On When You Want to Let Go: Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart." on Facebook and heard her speak at a conference in July and everything I heard fit just where I was in life – I couldn’t wait to read the book when it came out! It was everything I hoped for and more! Sheila knows how to speak to the heart of the matter and make the reader feel as if she’s talking just to you. Her stories, her advice and her reliance on God above all even when we can’t see or feel Him working is encouraging and just what we ALL need to hear (and read!) right now during COVID and all the other divisive issues going on in our country and our world. This is a book that I will come to over and over again and share with my counseling clients as well.
August 18, 2022
“Remember you are being held in the arms of the One who is everything you need.”
Holding On When You Want To Let Go is an inspiring and encouraging book. Sheila Walsh is real, open and honest, and there is something really comforting about reading a book by someone who’s experienced what they are talking about, not just studied it in order to write a book.
This book is full of hope and encouragement, and so much truth taken straight from Gods word, which Sheila reminds us is a great and necessary tool to use as we keep holding on.
I love how each chapter ended with a three point summary, a great way to allow you to flip back through and remember the key points, and then a short prayer.
Recommend this book to anyone who is tired of struggling to keep going in their own strength, this book gives you the tools to continue on in Gods strength.
Holding On When You Want To Let Go is an inspiring and encouraging book. Sheila Walsh is real, open and honest, and there is something really comforting about reading a book by someone who’s experienced what they are talking about, not just studied it in order to write a book.
This book is full of hope and encouragement, and so much truth taken straight from Gods word, which Sheila reminds us is a great and necessary tool to use as we keep holding on.
I love how each chapter ended with a three point summary, a great way to allow you to flip back through and remember the key points, and then a short prayer.
Recommend this book to anyone who is tired of struggling to keep going in their own strength, this book gives you the tools to continue on in Gods strength.
December 1, 2022
I've been wanting to read Holding On When You Want to Let Go by Sheila Walsh ever since it hit the shelves. She writes from the place of having wanted to give up and being in difficult circumstances where she didn't feel like God was anywhere in sight--let alone holding her. Sheila shares her hard-earned wisdom and compassion with us in this hopeful, heartfelt book.
I love Sheila's familiar, comforting style. She knows there's no quick fix for the trials we're going through, so she offers a "God fix" instead. She's relatable because she's so open about her struggles, yet she offers the hope found in Jesus. Occasionally, we do have to let go of things: “We let go of what we cannot keep to hold on to our Father, who will never let us go” (pg. 202).
If you're ready to give up hope, go read this book first!
I love Sheila's familiar, comforting style. She knows there's no quick fix for the trials we're going through, so she offers a "God fix" instead. She's relatable because she's so open about her struggles, yet she offers the hope found in Jesus. Occasionally, we do have to let go of things: “We let go of what we cannot keep to hold on to our Father, who will never let us go” (pg. 202).
If you're ready to give up hope, go read this book first!
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