Beauty Beyond the Thorns: Discovering Gifts in Suffering

by Darci J. Steiner

If you are experiencing a season of suffering, you will find hope, humor, and healing throughout the pages of Beauty Beyond the Thorns: Discovering Gifts in Suffering. Modern-day stories of suffering are paralleled with biblical accounts of healing that will both enrich your understanding of the Bible and provide hope for your personal journey.

We all need healing, whether experiencing physical or emotional pain from the thorns of divorce, job loss, grief, addiction, disability, or financial troubles. When we follow Jesus, God offers us gifts such as joy, hope, compassion, and mercy to help us not only endure our suffering but flourish in it.

In Beauty Beyond the Thorns: Discovering Gifts in Suffering. and its companion study guide, Darci inspires and equips both men and women to endure trials with meaningful insights she has gained during her physical and emotional suffering. Look inside for inspiration and to learn how to discover empowering insights to assist you along your healing journey.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction

222 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 23, 2021

About the author

Darci J. Steiner is the author of the 10x award-winning biblically based book, Beauty Beyond the Thorns: Discovering Gifts in Suffering, and its study guide. She is pursuing a master's degree in Biblical Exposition from Liberty University's Rawlings School of Divinity.

Darci began writing to process her pain after a serious foot injury. She writes and speaks to help others grow closer to the Lord through biblical knowledge and life experiences. Darci is currently querying a book on the backstories of the Psalms. She is also a keynote speaker and nutritionist.

Darci lives in Colorado with her husband, Mark, and treasures time with their two daughters, three grandchildren, and the beauty of all four seasons. Follow Darci on Goodreads to receive her blog posts or visit https://darcijsteiner.com to subscribe to The Upside Newsletter filled with spiritual and nutritional content.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful mix of storytelling and biblical truth

Darci has endured many hardships. Yet she did not allow them to sink her faith. I love the balance of personal stories and Bible application in each chapter. They are so engaging that they will keep you reading. Highly recommended for encouragement in your spiritual life.

[James Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Encouraging and Inspirational
Beauty Beyond the Thorns: Discovering Gifts in Suffering by Darci J. Steiner is encouraging and well-written. As you read her story, you will appreciate how the author presents God's goodness and love in suffering through her personal experiences. The book was written to “provide aha moments for you through stories of forgiveness and healing, pain and joy, struggle and victory, love and redemption, and hopelessness and hope.” It accomplishes that a so much more.

The author injured herself in a fall. The injury developed into a nerve pain disorder. Eventually she was confined to a wheelchair. This book is the result of the incredible life lessons she has learned. Darci shares her struggles with chronic pain and suffering while writing with honesty and wisdom. Her story will inspire, open your eyes to the love of God, and encourage you to walk closer with the Lord.

A standout chapter in the book is Chapter 10 which is titled “The Gift of Transformation – A Caregiver’s Perspective.” This chapter, written by the author’s husband, uses the parable of the Good Samaritan as an illustration. He writes, “There is a never-ending battle between the selfish flesh and the image of Christ within me.” His genuineness is real and refreshing. Another standout is the story of Darci’s friend Pam Daale. Through her suffering, Pam taught, “Peace doesn’t come from the absence of pain – peace comes from spending time with God.”

This book will leave you inspired. You will value Darci as a remarkable woman of God. The book will help you gain strength in whatever battles you are going through. It will help you to overcome overwhelming obstacles.

I strongly recommend this book to everyone. While the book is written from a Christian perspective, even non-Christians would benefit from this book’s practical wisdom. It would be especially helpful to those who are suffering.

[Patti Emminger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uplifting, motivational, & inspirational!

This author "nailed" it! She clearly lays out the supernatural gifts one receives through suffering. When life throws us a particularly painful curveball, we ALL ask "why?". Here's the answer! Thank you, Darci Steiner. (And thank you, God!)

[John Connolly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touching and vulnerable

I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway

The more I read this book the more I reflected on what Darci shared in such an incredibly vulnerable and tender manner. There are many places where her theological approach and mine differ greatly, and I had to rein myself in to remember this is her faith and her memoir that she lovingly is sharing with us.

At the end of the day I'm thankful for this gift of herself she has shared with us and it definitely helped remind me that I really can be thankful for my suffering in the way God will use it to bless me.

[Doris Siu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a motivational read and I was amazed at the author's openness on the painful moments in her life. It was refreshing to read how God has helped her through the suffering and this book was a friendly reminder that there is always hope in our lives. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone feeling lost or struggling through painful life events.

[Rosilee Barreto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Christian view on suffering

I wasn't sure what I would find when I picked up this book, but I had been a caretaker previously and was curious. I was humbled by the author's story and also appreciated the chapter her husband wrote about caretaking. It was a little ironic (or meant to be) because at one point I had a very bad day with my kids and had lost my patience and was yelling. I opened my phone and this book was still open and the next words I read were "Be a Peacemaker." Talk about the right advice coming at the right time! For anyone enduring chronic suffering or caring for someone who is, I highly recommend you read this book!

[Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darci Steiner knows pain, hers the result of a fall and a resulting nerve pain disorder and being re-injured years later. She has walked in faith through the injuries, medications, therapies, and life highs and lows. The author’s lifelong faith, determination, and thirst for knowledge of her physical condition have led her to a ministry to help others suffering from pain and disability. In her book, she weaves real-life situations with biblical passages and concludes that although we may be broken, by His wounds, Christ has already healed us.

Beauty Beyond The Thorns is divided into 30 Chapters which allow the reader to use the book in a daily devotional style, allowing the messages to be absorbed slowly with time for reflection and study. There is a companion study guide available that would enhance using this book in a small group setting.

This book provides wonderful encouragement and inspiration.

[Becky Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartfelt and moving account of one woman's suffering and how she finds the beauty and hope in her trials through God. Steiner's courage and vulnerability will both humble and inspire you. Strangers gave me funny looks as I walked through my local park listening to her story with tears splashing down my cheeks one minute and an expression of peace on my face the next. I loved this book so much, I had to buy a copy to give to my sons when they get older to help them face the inevitable challenges life will throw their way. Highly recommended!

[Glenys Lontok · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful and enlightening work. This is exactly what I needed to read, especially recently when I am going through a trial that God has put me through. I admit that throughout my struggle that ensued in the past year, I stopped praying for a time.

Darci's personal life and her inclusion of Bible parables opened my eyes to what I have and what I can gain through struggles that I or others go through. Today, after finishing the book, I prayed for the first time in 8 months. Thank you Darci, for you are a gift from God.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

See the upside of suffering through Bible verses and stories. The author tells her stories of trials and tribulations after she was physically disabled a second time. She sees the positive side of it, and parallels her experience with Bible verses and stories throughout the book. I enjoyed reading it. I think it would be perfect for someone else going through physical ailments if they need a lift. It would also be perfect for a Bible study group to read and discuss together.

[Kassidi Sikes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has such a clear and relatable message that you can’t hardly put it down. The author has such an excellent and engaging presence and clearly knows her stuff. I can’t recommend it enough!

[Susan Gabriel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational stories by a beautiful soul

I love this book's wonderful messages that were Spirit-inspired. Darci has had an unimaginable life, but lived it victoriously through Jesus.
Well worth a five-star rating and worthy of recommending to friends.

[Staci Diffendaffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was engaging and helpful. Steiner's voice is transparent, compassionate, and likeable. Having come through being disabled and bed-ridden myself, I wasn't sure I'd learn something I didn't already know. I was wrong. There were some big ah-ha moments for me.

Steiner includes Biblical references and stories which are really important to me. She also added a section from her husband/caregiver that provided a different perspective.

I'd recommend this book for anyone who is in pain and feels stuck emotionally and spiritually. This book is full of comfort, encouragement, and hope.

[Ray Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant!

Darci is an exceptional author. She is able to make you feel sympathy, panic, excited? Joy, pain, anguish, and happiness in this book. It takes a truly special author to make the reader feel all of these emotions in a story and she succeeds.

[Jim Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gifts in suffering

This book offers a great perspective in the midst of suffering that when one chooses to embrace suffering and place hope in the unseen , beauty blossoms from the thorns.

[Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Beauty Beyond the Thorns" is a book that deals with the stories of suffering and how we can grow ourselves through these sufferings with the help of bible truths.Problems are the part of life,suffering is something we all encounter whether it is emotional or physical but God also gives us the courage to cope up with these pain and suffering.

The Bible is filled with mystery and paradoxical concept.Main aim of this book is to change your thoughts regarding suffering,you will start experiencing pain and suffering in a different and positive manner.According to the author "Suffering provides opportunities for you to understand the suffering of Jesus and draw closer to him".What a wonderful book penned by the author,it inspired and motivated me alot.

There is a purpose of every suffering you face in the life,suffering and pain always bring rewards and gifts.In chapter 1 author has shared her journey which is filled with so much pain,i really became very emotional after reading her story.Healing is not an easy task,not everyone is able to come out from this but author tried really hard to change the perspectiveof people towards life by sharing her personal experiences.

Title is very relevant to the content,I liked the way how she applied the concepts of Bible to make us understand deeply,langauge used by her is beginner friendly.Book will keep you hold to your seat till the very end,there are total 30 chapter,each chapter is engrossing and interesting.Pain and suffering are temporary,they are not permanent.Cover page is simple yet attractive.I highly appreciate the author @darcijsteiner.writer for writing on this topic.

I will highly recommend this book to everyone out there specially to those who may need hope and inspiration during their trials,they will surely find hope,peace and humor.Grab a copy of this book now on amazon.

Thankyou.

[Carol Wyllie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting and well written

What a story of overcoming and of God’s grace, mercy and timing. You will not want to put it down. Very enlightening and encouraging. It can also put our own pain into perspective. Well done!

[Mike Harnish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading a number of books regarding better understanding of God's love. This book has been the one of the best, if not THE best, on the subject that I have read to date. While I am aware of some of the ideas that Mrs. Steiner mentions in this book, she has a way of explaining these things that bring them out in such a simple statement that while I knew them, I didn't understand them until now. Thank you, Mrs. Steiner. While I received this as an ebook giveaway, I am going to buy a copy to place in my bookshelf with all the other religious works.

[Leigh Romano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever needed encouragement, because your life is not going exactly as you had hoped? If yes, then this book is for you! It was so reassuring to read Darci's account of how God has walked with her while she has struggled to walk. She reminds us that no matter what comes our way, God is with us, and that He can bring beauty from ashes -- beauty from our struggles. May you be blessed by her hopeful words that there truly is beauty beyond the thorns.

[Angela]

A beautiful memoir - beautifully written and beautifully intertwined with bible verses that teach and inspire. A good read for those seeking meaning in life and a must read for those seeking meaning in suffering, loss, and grief. I especially love how the author made connections between her personal story and the stories of the bible. Wow!

[Basil Sparks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Heartfelt Reflection

Darci Steiner's book, "Beauty Beyond The Thorns – Discovering Gifts in Suffering," is a heartfelt and deeply meaningful mix of Darci’s own experience and how Jesus Christ’s miraculous work affected and ‘infected’ people across the New Testament. While the book is Darci’s words to us and the Bible’s wisdom for us, the book also includes her husband’s perspective on what it was like to see his wife suffering and what God had to change in his own life so he could be the husband she needed. She also gives Youth for Christ’s Donney Talley the opportunity to tell his story of suffering in one of the chapters, and how it took Melissa, a three-year-old girl, to help him stand and face his adversity.

I love Darci’s raw honesty about how difficult it was to live with and process the pain she experienced every day. One image has printed itself onto my mind: Darci wishing to be a mom to her two girls in the way she had dreamed of but realizing she never could – whether that was something simple like combing and plaiting their hair or joining in on family conversations around the dinner table. I was deeply challenged by Darci’s faith and reminded how important it is to truly see people – the person, not only the wheelchair or disability.

Darci takes us on a journey toward God in and through the trials we face. At times, I became quite emotional as I reflected on all Darci had to go through, almost always followed by the nagging thought, "How much can one person really take?" Yet Darci’s life is a testament that God does not break the bruised reed or snuff out the smoldering wick (Isaiah 42:3). Darci brings us face to face with a question that has plagued humanity for centuries – Why does God allow so much suffering in some people’s lives and families? But before we can turn on God or ruminate on the question too long, Darci calls us to faith, trust, and the inclination to look and see what God accomplishes in and through suffering. He did when Jesus walked along the ancient roads of Palestine, healing the broken and touching those considered untouchable, and He continues doing this today.

I do not know Darci or her husband, Mark, yet each has taught me. Darci through her story and perseverance, and Mark through his selfless love. The book was also an apt reminder of how we need one another and how compassion breaks through into forgiveness, giving love where bitterness once reigned. Thank you, Darci, for "Beyond The Thorns." I have been challenged, comforted, and strengthened through your life and words.

[Brenda E. Mcdaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light in the Darkness!

This was a very heartfelt and well written book. It was written from a life of physical, mental, emotional suffering and pain. But, through the author's agony, she was made stronger and her faith became deeper. I, myself am disabled and suffer chronic pain, although not as severe as the author's. And I too found strength, hope, faith, love through life's adversities and the Lord's healing Power! An unforgettable journey for the author, me and other's, who find the Light in the darkness! A powerful book!

[Verna Camfferman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this Book along with the study guide in a group setting.
I received so much insight and healing!
I recommend it highly!
Beautifully written!
Refreshingly, the author shares so many examples of her own suffering, rather than wearing the mask that is so popular today of, I'm fine!
Thank you Darcy!
You are an overcomer and model it well!