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Fractured Faith: Finding Your Way Back to God in an Age of Deconstruction
After your faith has fractured, let what takes its place be the real thing . . . at last.
Somewhere along the way, the Christianity you knew began to crumble. You began to suspect your faith was misplaced. Disillusionment set in. Churches hurt you. Their people failed you. Christian institutions were exposed as fake. And in it all, God was silent. Is He gone? Or is God really there, waiting for you to find Him instead of the counterfeits?
If you’re walking this difficult spiritual path, Lina AbuJamra understands you. After experiencing the near deconstruction of her own faith, Lina had to rebuild something more solid when the faith she once knew let her down. With her diagnostic style that comes from her training as an ER doc, Lina helps you grapple with questions
Where is God in my pain?Is this how Christians are supposed to act?Why did my story end up this way?Is this the normal Christian life?Why is it so hard for Christians to love?Let Fractured Faith help you find your way back to God. You just might discover that the real God has been waiting for you all along.
Somewhere along the way, the Christianity you knew began to crumble. You began to suspect your faith was misplaced. Disillusionment set in. Churches hurt you. Their people failed you. Christian institutions were exposed as fake. And in it all, God was silent. Is He gone? Or is God really there, waiting for you to find Him instead of the counterfeits?
If you’re walking this difficult spiritual path, Lina AbuJamra understands you. After experiencing the near deconstruction of her own faith, Lina had to rebuild something more solid when the faith she once knew let her down. With her diagnostic style that comes from her training as an ER doc, Lina helps you grapple with questions
Where is God in my pain?Is this how Christians are supposed to act?Why did my story end up this way?Is this the normal Christian life?Why is it so hard for Christians to love?Let Fractured Faith help you find your way back to God. You just might discover that the real God has been waiting for you all along.
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 7, 2021
122 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
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October 18, 2021
I heard the author on a podcast with Julie Roys recently and was impressed with what she has to say about church abuse and hurt. She “got” it and in the process has “kept”’ her faith and is still part of the church. I ordered her book in anticipation of a very good read about reigniting one’s faith in the midst of abuse and disappointment by the church. Unfortunately, her book to did not live up to my expectation.
As one who has experienced great abuse from the conservative church and fought my way back from the pit, both I and my family have worked hard through therapy, reading, and wrestling with God to “keep” our faith and attend church. I say that not to garner pity, or to be accused of the “victim” mentality, or ask for a pat on the back, I state that to say I understand and have experienced what she is writing about. I have talked to hundreds of others who have experienced the same sort of treatment by the church and have either walked away from the faith, are in process of wrestling with God, or have fallen in love with the true God of the Bible. So from my frame of reference, I read this book from the perspective of those who have been wounded by the church and are searching. I came away disappointed, thus the low book rating.
The title of the book is “Fractured Faith: Finding Your Way Back to God in an Age of Deconstruction.” However, once I finished the book, I felt she never really led the reader to find God. I found some of the same platitudes that the church employs—read your Bible, pray, forgive. That stepping away from church for a season was a bad thing. That is all well and good; however, for those struggling with faith from an abusive church experience, they first have to be able to separate the God of the Bible from “Christian religion/church.” That is a deconstruction process. The unhealthy church has formed a view of God in our heads that is not Biblical and has used a man-made form of God to abuse and weaponize Christians into submission. This, I feel, must first be addressed. Reading the Bible is not possible yet because all one hears is the thunderous lies/misconceptions of God from the former church/leader.
Several times she mentions the reader’s sin/failure as part of the problem (chapters 2 & 3). In my opinion this is not helpful, but rather damaging. Abuse is never my fault! Spend some time reminding the reader of who we are in Jesus-loved, accepted, valued, beautiful. Use Scripture to back it up. This is what has been destroyed in an abusive church-our sense of self. We need to hear of God’s grace over, and over, and over again.
“Why Can’t I Feel More of God in my Life?” (Chapter 7) I feel really misses the mark. In the third paragraph she talks about how we all want to be in a room with someone we love and trust. So true. But those of us who have been in abusive churches have had our trust in God shattered or deformed. It takes time to trust God again, and that comes back to being able to separate the God of the Bible and church/religion. There’s a lot of talk about the Christian life in these chapters, but how about talking about following Jesus? Show me who He is in the Bible. I don’t mean to split hairs here, but at this point, most of the readers I have in mind will put the book down.
The good in the book:
“A Christianity born out of duty and tradition will never sustain you through life’s trials, while a Christianity rooted in a love relationship with Jesus will carry you through anything (p. 109)”. YES-now focus on that love relationship! That is what I thought the book would be about.
I found her chapter on rhythms in the Christian life very good and helpful. Her story about Sarah and learning to love was powerful. Oh, how I wish the church would learn this!
Wrestling with God is a powerful concept. Wrestling with who God is versus who we want Him to be versus who we were told He was.
Overall, I would point the readers to books by Diane Langberg or Jeff VanVonderen. I had to keep reminding myself that this was her story. It is valuable and helpful, just not what I thought the book would be.
As one who has experienced great abuse from the conservative church and fought my way back from the pit, both I and my family have worked hard through therapy, reading, and wrestling with God to “keep” our faith and attend church. I say that not to garner pity, or to be accused of the “victim” mentality, or ask for a pat on the back, I state that to say I understand and have experienced what she is writing about. I have talked to hundreds of others who have experienced the same sort of treatment by the church and have either walked away from the faith, are in process of wrestling with God, or have fallen in love with the true God of the Bible. So from my frame of reference, I read this book from the perspective of those who have been wounded by the church and are searching. I came away disappointed, thus the low book rating.
The title of the book is “Fractured Faith: Finding Your Way Back to God in an Age of Deconstruction.” However, once I finished the book, I felt she never really led the reader to find God. I found some of the same platitudes that the church employs—read your Bible, pray, forgive. That stepping away from church for a season was a bad thing. That is all well and good; however, for those struggling with faith from an abusive church experience, they first have to be able to separate the God of the Bible from “Christian religion/church.” That is a deconstruction process. The unhealthy church has formed a view of God in our heads that is not Biblical and has used a man-made form of God to abuse and weaponize Christians into submission. This, I feel, must first be addressed. Reading the Bible is not possible yet because all one hears is the thunderous lies/misconceptions of God from the former church/leader.
Several times she mentions the reader’s sin/failure as part of the problem (chapters 2 & 3). In my opinion this is not helpful, but rather damaging. Abuse is never my fault! Spend some time reminding the reader of who we are in Jesus-loved, accepted, valued, beautiful. Use Scripture to back it up. This is what has been destroyed in an abusive church-our sense of self. We need to hear of God’s grace over, and over, and over again.
“Why Can’t I Feel More of God in my Life?” (Chapter 7) I feel really misses the mark. In the third paragraph she talks about how we all want to be in a room with someone we love and trust. So true. But those of us who have been in abusive churches have had our trust in God shattered or deformed. It takes time to trust God again, and that comes back to being able to separate the God of the Bible and church/religion. There’s a lot of talk about the Christian life in these chapters, but how about talking about following Jesus? Show me who He is in the Bible. I don’t mean to split hairs here, but at this point, most of the readers I have in mind will put the book down.
The good in the book:
“A Christianity born out of duty and tradition will never sustain you through life’s trials, while a Christianity rooted in a love relationship with Jesus will carry you through anything (p. 109)”. YES-now focus on that love relationship! That is what I thought the book would be about.
I found her chapter on rhythms in the Christian life very good and helpful. Her story about Sarah and learning to love was powerful. Oh, how I wish the church would learn this!
Wrestling with God is a powerful concept. Wrestling with who God is versus who we want Him to be versus who we were told He was.
Overall, I would point the readers to books by Diane Langberg or Jeff VanVonderen. I had to keep reminding myself that this was her story. It is valuable and helpful, just not what I thought the book would be.
August 17, 2021
"Fractured Faith is a book about finding your way back to God… only to find out that He’s been waiting for you all along"
When you head to her site you will read this quote along with a fabulous overview of her book. I have so many quotes taken from her book. The challenge has been to choose which ones to include! You will understand why after you read her story in Fractured Faith.
I first was introduced to Lina Abujamra through our women's ministry at Hope Bible Church Oakville. Lina was the keynote speaker for Radiant 2019. Her passion for Christ was evident in every step she took across the stage! Bible in hand and determined to share what God laid on her heart, she taught us with passion, grace and wisdom. Since then I have been blessed by her ministry Living With Power and the wonderful options she has available on her site. The Hope Podcast, morning minutes and devotionals sent to my inbox have been insightful and my favourites! Her latest book is almost out and I am grateful to be on the launch team for Fractured Faith and share a review of her book.
I need to begin with a brief story. Many years ago I had a neighbour full of excitement for life and very talented. We spoke about spiritual things from time to time but the one thing I recall the most was a conversation about 'church' and how she was never going back there. I wish I could remember more details, but the discussion never continued. What I heard that day was obvious hurt, pain and anger that lingered. I still think about that time and I wish I could go back to that moment with a book like this to share how, although, we are hurt by others in the church, our model is Jesus not people. It's easy to allow others to be the model to follow, the danger is that we may neglect what the Bible is teaching and rest in others first, not Christ. Christ is our anchor! As you read through Lina's book you will see so clearly that she recognized pain from others in the church and the hold it had, but ultimately that Christ is her firm foundation. She passionately and vulnerably shares her story in Fractured Faith with the hope to allow others into her story to demonstrate God's sovereignty in our lives.
"I gave the people who hurt me so much power over my life. Yet they weren’t the ones who had called me to ministry. God was. And they weren’t the ones in control of my future. God was. I just couldn’t see it clearly for a while. When our vision is disrupted by our pain, it is God’s grace that restores our vision for who He is and what He longs to accomplish in us."
- Lina p.81
Lina's story may be familiar to you in many ways, hurt from others in the church. If not, this opens up a way to walk with those that have lost faith in church through friendship, love and pointing them to Christ. Lina found hope in the gift of new friends and that began a new chapter in her life.
"Your present suffering is God’s invitation to you for more of His presence in your life. It will take courage and guts to tell your story. It might even create some significant changes in your future, but it will be worth it. You will find out that you are not alone in your pain, and that when you finally let it all out, God will still be right there, waiting for you. You will realize that God isn’t disturbed by your pain. He welcomes it; He welcomes you. He’s a Savior who is familiar with our pain. But He’s also a Savior who knows that glory is born out of suffering. If you feel like you’ve lost your grip on God, it’s okay to let go. Because when you finally let go, you’ll find that He still has His grip on you."
- Lina p.36
I love how she shares so openly about her hurt, journey toward forgiveness and her trust in a loving God,
"We forget that last bit. Forgiveness doesn’t just mean that a wounded person simply lets go of the offense. It means that we turn the offense over to God and allow Him to judge justly. In other words, healing when you’ve been wounded by other Christians has more to do with trusting God than you might have thought."
- Lina p.85
When you read a book about someone's pain and their journey to wholeness in Christ, it changes you. We all have pain in different ways in our own lives. I am grateful that Lina willingly shared her story so others will know just how loved we are by God.
"God always sees the best version of who we are. He sees past our shame to all the places He still wants to take us. He sees our end from the beginning and our current spot from the end. God knows that it’s only when we come to the end of ourselves that we will finally see His face. Grace calls us by our real names, sees our God-given identities, and opens our eyes to see God’s presence and goodness in our despair."
- Lina p.114
If we stay in the boat of unforgiveness we will never reach the shores of hope, release and refreshment that God offers! Lina was able to transform her painful experiences and allow God to use it for his glory through the ministry he called her to,
"God’s gift on my life to teach His word was awakened in the aftermath of my pain. I hadn’t asked for it, but I’ve learned that God has a way of surprising us in our most painful places." - Lina p.80
I highly recommend this book! I read it over a few days and knew quickly that this will be a book I order multiple copies of to share with others. Pain in inevitable, hurt will come BUT God is not unaware and he provides what we need when we need it through others. God is good!
Ok, one more quote from Lina!
"God is committed to reminding us of His goodness when we’re hurting. He’s committed to proving to us over and over again just how much we mean to Him. He’s resolved to show us that every human life has value, including mine. It is God’s sovereign goodness that calls us out of our painful places. It is His justice that steps in and vindicates us even after we’ve mentally assumed our story is over. And it is the power of God that allows us to step back into our own life and calling even after we’ve counted ourselves out."
- Lina p.79-80
When you head to her site you will read this quote along with a fabulous overview of her book. I have so many quotes taken from her book. The challenge has been to choose which ones to include! You will understand why after you read her story in Fractured Faith.
I first was introduced to Lina Abujamra through our women's ministry at Hope Bible Church Oakville. Lina was the keynote speaker for Radiant 2019. Her passion for Christ was evident in every step she took across the stage! Bible in hand and determined to share what God laid on her heart, she taught us with passion, grace and wisdom. Since then I have been blessed by her ministry Living With Power and the wonderful options she has available on her site. The Hope Podcast, morning minutes and devotionals sent to my inbox have been insightful and my favourites! Her latest book is almost out and I am grateful to be on the launch team for Fractured Faith and share a review of her book.
I need to begin with a brief story. Many years ago I had a neighbour full of excitement for life and very talented. We spoke about spiritual things from time to time but the one thing I recall the most was a conversation about 'church' and how she was never going back there. I wish I could remember more details, but the discussion never continued. What I heard that day was obvious hurt, pain and anger that lingered. I still think about that time and I wish I could go back to that moment with a book like this to share how, although, we are hurt by others in the church, our model is Jesus not people. It's easy to allow others to be the model to follow, the danger is that we may neglect what the Bible is teaching and rest in others first, not Christ. Christ is our anchor! As you read through Lina's book you will see so clearly that she recognized pain from others in the church and the hold it had, but ultimately that Christ is her firm foundation. She passionately and vulnerably shares her story in Fractured Faith with the hope to allow others into her story to demonstrate God's sovereignty in our lives.
"I gave the people who hurt me so much power over my life. Yet they weren’t the ones who had called me to ministry. God was. And they weren’t the ones in control of my future. God was. I just couldn’t see it clearly for a while. When our vision is disrupted by our pain, it is God’s grace that restores our vision for who He is and what He longs to accomplish in us."
- Lina p.81
Lina's story may be familiar to you in many ways, hurt from others in the church. If not, this opens up a way to walk with those that have lost faith in church through friendship, love and pointing them to Christ. Lina found hope in the gift of new friends and that began a new chapter in her life.
"Your present suffering is God’s invitation to you for more of His presence in your life. It will take courage and guts to tell your story. It might even create some significant changes in your future, but it will be worth it. You will find out that you are not alone in your pain, and that when you finally let it all out, God will still be right there, waiting for you. You will realize that God isn’t disturbed by your pain. He welcomes it; He welcomes you. He’s a Savior who is familiar with our pain. But He’s also a Savior who knows that glory is born out of suffering. If you feel like you’ve lost your grip on God, it’s okay to let go. Because when you finally let go, you’ll find that He still has His grip on you."
- Lina p.36
I love how she shares so openly about her hurt, journey toward forgiveness and her trust in a loving God,
"We forget that last bit. Forgiveness doesn’t just mean that a wounded person simply lets go of the offense. It means that we turn the offense over to God and allow Him to judge justly. In other words, healing when you’ve been wounded by other Christians has more to do with trusting God than you might have thought."
- Lina p.85
When you read a book about someone's pain and their journey to wholeness in Christ, it changes you. We all have pain in different ways in our own lives. I am grateful that Lina willingly shared her story so others will know just how loved we are by God.
"God always sees the best version of who we are. He sees past our shame to all the places He still wants to take us. He sees our end from the beginning and our current spot from the end. God knows that it’s only when we come to the end of ourselves that we will finally see His face. Grace calls us by our real names, sees our God-given identities, and opens our eyes to see God’s presence and goodness in our despair."
- Lina p.114
If we stay in the boat of unforgiveness we will never reach the shores of hope, release and refreshment that God offers! Lina was able to transform her painful experiences and allow God to use it for his glory through the ministry he called her to,
"God’s gift on my life to teach His word was awakened in the aftermath of my pain. I hadn’t asked for it, but I’ve learned that God has a way of surprising us in our most painful places." - Lina p.80
I highly recommend this book! I read it over a few days and knew quickly that this will be a book I order multiple copies of to share with others. Pain in inevitable, hurt will come BUT God is not unaware and he provides what we need when we need it through others. God is good!
Ok, one more quote from Lina!
"God is committed to reminding us of His goodness when we’re hurting. He’s committed to proving to us over and over again just how much we mean to Him. He’s resolved to show us that every human life has value, including mine. It is God’s sovereign goodness that calls us out of our painful places. It is His justice that steps in and vindicates us even after we’ve mentally assumed our story is over. And it is the power of God that allows us to step back into our own life and calling even after we’ve counted ourselves out."
- Lina p.79-80
June 27, 2022
I think this is rightly titled “Fractured Faith” because it certainly seems like the faith of this author only took a minor hit. I don’t mean to discount the journey she’s been on; I believe she is genuine and people who have had similar stumbles on the path of their faith will benefit from her words. But I guess I was looking for something even more honest, more raw. If faith is a road you walk on, then this author tripped on some debris, fractured her foot, took a time out for a while, and got back up and on her way. Then she assured every Christian who worries about the slippery slope of deconstruction that she was fine and that it’s okay to have a little stumble. It felt like it was written to assuage the fears of other believers scared of the word “deconstruction” than it was for the people who want to have an honest conversation about the nitty gritty aspects of their faith. And that’s fine. Many people do go through those trip ups and will need guidance on gaining stability again.
I guess the book I thought I was about to read was for people who notice that the road of their faith is built on a major sink hole of cultural toxic performance and they didn’t necessarily crash and burn but they’ve come to see that the road itself is doomed to ruin if they don’t deconstruct, find what is deeply wrong and not of God and build it back up again. And I’m not talking what is wrong with Jesus Himself or the Christianity He taught, or individual Christians who are human like the rest of us, but the way we (especially in white American evangelicalism) think and have interpreted Him and presented faith to the world. Not just a little hypocrisy here or lack of love there, but deep roots of pride, power, love of money, “us vs them” mentality. There doesn’t seem to be much of that in this book… just a lot of the trite sayings and common beliefs and Christian platitudes that I’ve heard before.
Her chapter on what people find unjust within Christianity was really lacking too. She mentioned what others have expressed problems with and then goes ahead and defends how God is “unfair” (but not unjust) in the story of Jonah or the parable of the laborers’ wages. But really… nobody has an issue with God showing too much mercy. Nobody is arguing over the undeserved love displayed when Jesus died on the cross. We aren’t losing our faith because of too much of God’s goodness. What about the deeper things that actually do seem unjust like Hell (if the faith we have is a gift, do we really have free will and if not, why is there punishment for what we cannot choose?) or the wrath of God (why is He so angry with us if we are His creation and He knew what we would become?) ?
There were a few other things that were kind of annoying and a few things that were kind of helpful, but in the end I was mostly bored and ready to be done with a book that I personally did not find insightful. The author seems like a lovely person, but it just was not the book for me.
I guess the book I thought I was about to read was for people who notice that the road of their faith is built on a major sink hole of cultural toxic performance and they didn’t necessarily crash and burn but they’ve come to see that the road itself is doomed to ruin if they don’t deconstruct, find what is deeply wrong and not of God and build it back up again. And I’m not talking what is wrong with Jesus Himself or the Christianity He taught, or individual Christians who are human like the rest of us, but the way we (especially in white American evangelicalism) think and have interpreted Him and presented faith to the world. Not just a little hypocrisy here or lack of love there, but deep roots of pride, power, love of money, “us vs them” mentality. There doesn’t seem to be much of that in this book… just a lot of the trite sayings and common beliefs and Christian platitudes that I’ve heard before.
Her chapter on what people find unjust within Christianity was really lacking too. She mentioned what others have expressed problems with and then goes ahead and defends how God is “unfair” (but not unjust) in the story of Jonah or the parable of the laborers’ wages. But really… nobody has an issue with God showing too much mercy. Nobody is arguing over the undeserved love displayed when Jesus died on the cross. We aren’t losing our faith because of too much of God’s goodness. What about the deeper things that actually do seem unjust like Hell (if the faith we have is a gift, do we really have free will and if not, why is there punishment for what we cannot choose?) or the wrath of God (why is He so angry with us if we are His creation and He knew what we would become?) ?
There were a few other things that were kind of annoying and a few things that were kind of helpful, but in the end I was mostly bored and ready to be done with a book that I personally did not find insightful. The author seems like a lovely person, but it just was not the book for me.
Read
August 17, 2021This book was personal, painful but powerful. The author shares her heart and hurts, yet doesn't leave us there. She answers some tough questions and encourages us to look deep inside and answer those same questions. The book will take you from a journey of discouragement to deconstruction back to a reconstructed faith and life. It is HOPE Filled.
If you have been hurt, wounded, disillusioned by faith or people of faith - this book is a healing and redemptive read.
MUST READ
If you have been hurt, wounded, disillusioned by faith or people of faith - this book is a healing and redemptive read.
MUST READ
August 17, 2021
If you find your faith hanging in the balance because of disillusionment from life, church or God himself. This book helps you sit in your pain and not feel guilty about it and draws you back to a God is above all those things. If you need a new perspective of God and faith I’d recommend reading this book or giving it to someone who needs this message
October 31, 2024
Dr. Abujamra shares the deconstruction of her Christian faith and the rebuilding of it. Deconstruction is a movement against Christian faith by those who are disaffected. Each chapter reveals one of the reasons that Abujamra nearly left Christianity behind. The second chapter, based on young people feeling that God didn't keep His promises, stood out to me because sometimes preachers misapply scriptures, leading people to think that the Bible says certain things that it doesn't say when you read it in context.
One of those teachings that bothers me is that God has a wonderful plan for your life based on some verses in the book of Jeremiah. The particular passage, Jeremiah 29:11-14 says:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.
13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
14 And I will be found of you, saith the Lord: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the Lord; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.
The Lord told Jeremiah to tell this to the Jews so that they would not give up hope when they were taken into captivity by the Babylonians. God was going to bring them back to their homeland. That was His plan to the nation, not to individuals. When we apply that to ourselves, we tend to think we're going to have a great life. We don't expect to be taken by a terrorist group and gangraped for ten years, like Leah or for our children to be on their own while we are imprisoned in Iran's Evian Prison or to spend years in the laogai of China for preaching the Gospel. (November 3 is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.) Most of us don't expect to be crucified upside down like Peter nor beheaded like Paul. That's not what we think the preacher is saying that God is promising.
Dr. Abujamra discusses what brought her through the disappointments that she faced in her life and why she was disappointed, but she doesn't really deal with this specific issue. The issues that shook her up were all faced by many people. She offers good reasons to hang on to God during these times.
I think this book or a similar one would be good to study during Sunday school, a small group, or private study. I would like to see my children and older grandchildren read this to help them deal with those challenges to their faith that they will likely face. Most of the ones written about are ones I've faced, and I know how devastating they can be. Being forewarned as a teenager or college student might prepare a student when life pummels them.
Dr. Abujamra's writing style is warm, personal, and direct. She offers good reasons for her return to Christ. She does not condescend to her readers or downplay the pain.
One of those teachings that bothers me is that God has a wonderful plan for your life based on some verses in the book of Jeremiah. The particular passage, Jeremiah 29:11-14 says:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.
13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
14 And I will be found of you, saith the Lord: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the Lord; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.
The Lord told Jeremiah to tell this to the Jews so that they would not give up hope when they were taken into captivity by the Babylonians. God was going to bring them back to their homeland. That was His plan to the nation, not to individuals. When we apply that to ourselves, we tend to think we're going to have a great life. We don't expect to be taken by a terrorist group and gangraped for ten years, like Leah or for our children to be on their own while we are imprisoned in Iran's Evian Prison or to spend years in the laogai of China for preaching the Gospel. (November 3 is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.) Most of us don't expect to be crucified upside down like Peter nor beheaded like Paul. That's not what we think the preacher is saying that God is promising.
Dr. Abujamra discusses what brought her through the disappointments that she faced in her life and why she was disappointed, but she doesn't really deal with this specific issue. The issues that shook her up were all faced by many people. She offers good reasons to hang on to God during these times.
I think this book or a similar one would be good to study during Sunday school, a small group, or private study. I would like to see my children and older grandchildren read this to help them deal with those challenges to their faith that they will likely face. Most of the ones written about are ones I've faced, and I know how devastating they can be. Being forewarned as a teenager or college student might prepare a student when life pummels them.
Dr. Abujamra's writing style is warm, personal, and direct. She offers good reasons for her return to Christ. She does not condescend to her readers or downplay the pain.
August 17, 2021
“You are going to want both a Bible and highlighter close by as you read Dr Lina Abujamra’s honest and engaging journey of reconstructed faith. Without reservation she tackles topics many Christ-followers silently ponder, but are fearful to voice, directing the reader to a God who longs to fulfill each need with Himself. This book is not about striving for another Christian experience, but opening your heart to a God encounter. Each chapter is a lifeline thrown out to a soul drowning in doubt, despair, difficulty, disillusionment and disappointment, providing a rescue, not with more theological cliches, but with truth shared openly from a heart touched, and still tender, to God’s saving grace. I’d caution not to rush your reading. As a gifted communicator Lina shares Biblical precepts in profound ways. Writing with the perfect balance of personal story, memorable illustrations and scriptural text, the Lord Himself will invite you to come broken and rest in His presence, allowing His truth to settle over you. It’s time friend. God has found you. “Fractured Faith” will walk you home, welcoming you back as you rediscover the only One who can rebuild your life and hope in Him.”
August 17, 2021
This is the must-read book for anyone who questions the goodness of God, Christianity, and has ever grappled with suffering, church hurt, doubt and disillusionment in the Christian life – meaning EVERYONE! Lina is like a wise guide who has “been there.” She leads with a fresh authenticity and compassion, assuring readers that struggle and suffering does not have to deconstruct our faith. Rather, our pain and questionings holds= the potential to lead us to greater intimacy with our loving God who always measures up. I’m so grateful to have read this book and highly recommend to everyone!
Currently reading
August 17, 2021I am in the midst of this amazing book tha renews my faith on every page. If you are struggling in any way--or even if you are not this is the book to read and help you to look inside of yourself through Lina's story of how her faith was fractured to see --just where you are..I am in awe and am blessed to be able to be reading this book. This comes with the highest of recommendations!!
August 17, 2021
As a member of the launch team for Fractured Faith by Lina Abujamra I have read this book. It is a must-read for any person who has been hurt or discouraged by Christian leaders or Christians in general. It will help you focus on God and get you back into ministry with a better understanding of
the normal Christian life.
the normal Christian life.
September 4, 2021
One of the things that Lina does best in her book "Fractured Faith" is to help us understand that having questions is normal and to be expected as part of growing as a Christian. Lina helps us to recognize that having questions and doubts doesn't mean that we're heading down a path of deconstruction, but, that it's a normal part of the Christian life. What blessed reassurance. Lina's book is honest, and, faith-filled. We can believe and grow, past our questions!
January 3, 2023
Many mixed feelings about this one. Going to mull it over before writing a full review.
And I'm back.
There were a few things I liked about this book. She did not beat around the bush telling us ways that we need to change. I can appreciate that. For instance, "The biggest mistake we make in Christianity is to make ourselves the center of our story." 100% need reminders like this. There were a handful of points like this that I highlighted/underlined as good reminders. However, I did have some fundamental disagreements with several things she said.
She used the story of Naomi to teach that "your harvest is coming." Basically, if you stick through the bad times in life, better things in life will come. That's simply not true. All but one of the apostles were martyred. We likely all know someone who has died after an extended illness. False promises and false hope are not a part of the gospel. Sometimes we do not get a "harvest" on this side of eternity. But we are to trust God anyway. Praise Him anyway. Such as Lamentations chapter 3 when they were in the middle of utter devastation and still noted that God's mercies were "new every morning."
I also felt like the retellings of certain Bible stories were very Rachel-Hollis-esque.. Basically watering down intricate stories in order to make them more palatable but to the point of untruth. Especially in the case of Jacob and Esau. She writes, "Esau chose his appetite over his birthright, and the rest, as they say, was history.." Then later, "He was driven by his appetites. He never understood God's heart for Him. He consistently chose what felt good now and sacrificed what was good forever." When Esau sold his birthright, he was literally starving. He was fearing for his life due to his hunger and knew a birthright would do no good anyway if he was actually dead (Gen 25:26). He didn't trade his birthright for a Little Debbie cake or a meal he could've gotten at the local Taco Bell. Many of the stories and points made throughout this book very much trivialized real issues and cast the blame on the wrong party or for the wrong reasons. So take everything with a grain of salt.
And as a side note... there were so many mentions of her being an ER doctor. It says it twice on the back cover. So I really thought we were going to get some inspiring stories about her work and how dealing with hard things and helping people through the worst parts of life has helped her grow. But that actually had nothing at all to do with the book, which kind of disappointed me.
2.5 stars
And I'm back.
There were a few things I liked about this book. She did not beat around the bush telling us ways that we need to change. I can appreciate that. For instance, "The biggest mistake we make in Christianity is to make ourselves the center of our story." 100% need reminders like this. There were a handful of points like this that I highlighted/underlined as good reminders. However, I did have some fundamental disagreements with several things she said.
She used the story of Naomi to teach that "your harvest is coming." Basically, if you stick through the bad times in life, better things in life will come. That's simply not true. All but one of the apostles were martyred. We likely all know someone who has died after an extended illness. False promises and false hope are not a part of the gospel. Sometimes we do not get a "harvest" on this side of eternity. But we are to trust God anyway. Praise Him anyway. Such as Lamentations chapter 3 when they were in the middle of utter devastation and still noted that God's mercies were "new every morning."
I also felt like the retellings of certain Bible stories were very Rachel-Hollis-esque.. Basically watering down intricate stories in order to make them more palatable but to the point of untruth. Especially in the case of Jacob and Esau. She writes, "Esau chose his appetite over his birthright, and the rest, as they say, was history.." Then later, "He was driven by his appetites. He never understood God's heart for Him. He consistently chose what felt good now and sacrificed what was good forever." When Esau sold his birthright, he was literally starving. He was fearing for his life due to his hunger and knew a birthright would do no good anyway if he was actually dead (Gen 25:26). He didn't trade his birthright for a Little Debbie cake or a meal he could've gotten at the local Taco Bell. Many of the stories and points made throughout this book very much trivialized real issues and cast the blame on the wrong party or for the wrong reasons. So take everything with a grain of salt.
And as a side note... there were so many mentions of her being an ER doctor. It says it twice on the back cover. So I really thought we were going to get some inspiring stories about her work and how dealing with hard things and helping people through the worst parts of life has helped her grow. But that actually had nothing at all to do with the book, which kind of disappointed me.
2.5 stars
August 14, 2021
I have been very honoured and delighted to be part of Lina Abujamra’s Launch Team for her new book “Fractured Faith”. Having read her previous books and bible studies and met her in person, I knew the calibre of writing would be excellent and I was confident that the message would be relevant and theologically sound. I really had no doubt that I would like this book so I agreed to read an advanced digital copy and share my thoughts on social media and with friends and family.
What I didn’t anticipate was how timely this book would be for me in my life right now. (I should have known, but still, I was pleasantly surprised)
I am finished reading through the book once and have actually begun reading it a second time at an even slower pace, really digging in and making notes. But since I am going to take it more slowly, I really wanted to share my review of this book now because I am so excited for everyone to check it out too!
Many of you have known Lina or known of her biblical teaching, her ministry “Living With Power”, her humanitarian missions work in Lebanon with Syrian refugees or have read one of her 3 previously published books (Thrive, Stripped, Resolved). However, many do not know that while working full time as an ER doctor, Lina also served as the Director of Ladies Ministry at a really large evangelical church in Chicago. A church that went through some really massive problems, broken leadership, divided congregation and a whole lot of mess that caused a lot of hurt amongst many of the people involved, including Lina.
It is difficult events during that time in her life that that are the impetus for this incredibly personal and transparent book. Lina shares the depth of her pain and rejection after (necessarily) leaving the church, she describes the hurt and isolation she felt having been separated from her church family, friends, mentors and those she had walked with for years in ministry and life. She shares her doubt and confusion over what her decision to leave cost her personally and professionally. Her story is not to inspire pity or speak ill of anyone involved, but rather with the purpose of pointing out God’s faithfulness and sovereignty over the whole situation even while she pulled away from the Lord and struggled to keep her faith.
The details of the painful church break up, implosion of the leadership and Lina’s struggle with her daily faith are not as important for the reader as Lina’s persistent pointing to the Lord as the source of strength and healing. This book is going to be a lasting source of hope and restoration for anyone who has a been hurt by their church, by other Christians, by proud leaders and by those who were supposed to love and support them. We all know someone who is in need of encouragement in their faith or a reminder of God’s goodness.
While that specific experience sparked the writing of this book, I can honestly say that there is so much truth in the pages of Fractured Faith that will speak to anyone going through anything painful in their lives right now. Pain is universal and many people find it difficult to see the Lord through their pain. So many people have found that unfulfilled expectations, broken relationships, overwhelming trials and unbearable loss have clouded their vision and forced a wall between them and their Saviour.
This book is a trumpet call reminding the reader that while God may seem far in the midst of your pain, He is anything but disconnected. It’s a reminder that the Lord will use the painful, and often confusing things that happen in our lives, to bring us closer to Him and to “help you see a pathway to your purpose in your pain”. (p.20)
The best part about this book is the constant references to scripture and the consistent message that God is the source of healing, strength and fulfillment. Using real examples from her own life and biblical figures like Philip, Peter, Naomi, Abraham and Samuel, Lina highlights the difficult journey Christ-followers will take on the road to eternity. She reminds us that when our faith is challenged and our outlook is dim, the answers are found in drawing CLOSER to God and seeking Him, not drawing AWAY from God to stay in isolation, self pity, hiding from the Lord and His light.
I will end this review with one of my favourite quotes from Fractured Faith (although there are so many, I might need a new highlighter when the paper copy arrives!)
“ This book is about remembering. It’s about remembering that we are loved—whether we believe it or not. Remembering that we are chosen even when we fail. It’s a book about remembering that it’s God’s goodness that holds on to us when we can’t hold on anymore.
Sometimes, you have to reach your lowest in order to find out what’s true: that God loves you and that nothing will ever separate you from the love of God. That as you drag your way back home— fearful of the price you’re going to have to pay for leaving, battered and worn out and aged and sorrowful—the last face you expect to see is the tear-drenched face of your Father who never stopped waiting for you to come home.”
This book reached my heart with a depth I didn’t imagine when I started on the first page. I haven’t come from a church that has broken up and destroyed lives. I am blessed to be part of a godly church body that so far has remained focussed on the gospel and God’s glory. I have many people around me who love me and pray for me and my family. However, there have been times when I have been hurt by some of God’s people. I have been disappointed by those who I thought would never reject or dismiss me. I have been plagued by difficulties; health, finances, relationships, problems of my own making etc. that have often caused me to pull inward in “self-preservation” and pull away from the Lord because I sinfully doubted His goodness and feared that things would never get better. I know hopelessness, defeat and personal pain and I know what it means to doubt whether God hears or cares.
Fractured Faith is a loving message from the Lord, through Lina Abujamra, to me at this time in my life for His glory and my growth. I’m absolutely sure there is something in this book for you too…
What I didn’t anticipate was how timely this book would be for me in my life right now. (I should have known, but still, I was pleasantly surprised)
I am finished reading through the book once and have actually begun reading it a second time at an even slower pace, really digging in and making notes. But since I am going to take it more slowly, I really wanted to share my review of this book now because I am so excited for everyone to check it out too!
Many of you have known Lina or known of her biblical teaching, her ministry “Living With Power”, her humanitarian missions work in Lebanon with Syrian refugees or have read one of her 3 previously published books (Thrive, Stripped, Resolved). However, many do not know that while working full time as an ER doctor, Lina also served as the Director of Ladies Ministry at a really large evangelical church in Chicago. A church that went through some really massive problems, broken leadership, divided congregation and a whole lot of mess that caused a lot of hurt amongst many of the people involved, including Lina.
It is difficult events during that time in her life that that are the impetus for this incredibly personal and transparent book. Lina shares the depth of her pain and rejection after (necessarily) leaving the church, she describes the hurt and isolation she felt having been separated from her church family, friends, mentors and those she had walked with for years in ministry and life. She shares her doubt and confusion over what her decision to leave cost her personally and professionally. Her story is not to inspire pity or speak ill of anyone involved, but rather with the purpose of pointing out God’s faithfulness and sovereignty over the whole situation even while she pulled away from the Lord and struggled to keep her faith.
The details of the painful church break up, implosion of the leadership and Lina’s struggle with her daily faith are not as important for the reader as Lina’s persistent pointing to the Lord as the source of strength and healing. This book is going to be a lasting source of hope and restoration for anyone who has a been hurt by their church, by other Christians, by proud leaders and by those who were supposed to love and support them. We all know someone who is in need of encouragement in their faith or a reminder of God’s goodness.
While that specific experience sparked the writing of this book, I can honestly say that there is so much truth in the pages of Fractured Faith that will speak to anyone going through anything painful in their lives right now. Pain is universal and many people find it difficult to see the Lord through their pain. So many people have found that unfulfilled expectations, broken relationships, overwhelming trials and unbearable loss have clouded their vision and forced a wall between them and their Saviour.
This book is a trumpet call reminding the reader that while God may seem far in the midst of your pain, He is anything but disconnected. It’s a reminder that the Lord will use the painful, and often confusing things that happen in our lives, to bring us closer to Him and to “help you see a pathway to your purpose in your pain”. (p.20)
The best part about this book is the constant references to scripture and the consistent message that God is the source of healing, strength and fulfillment. Using real examples from her own life and biblical figures like Philip, Peter, Naomi, Abraham and Samuel, Lina highlights the difficult journey Christ-followers will take on the road to eternity. She reminds us that when our faith is challenged and our outlook is dim, the answers are found in drawing CLOSER to God and seeking Him, not drawing AWAY from God to stay in isolation, self pity, hiding from the Lord and His light.
I will end this review with one of my favourite quotes from Fractured Faith (although there are so many, I might need a new highlighter when the paper copy arrives!)
“ This book is about remembering. It’s about remembering that we are loved—whether we believe it or not. Remembering that we are chosen even when we fail. It’s a book about remembering that it’s God’s goodness that holds on to us when we can’t hold on anymore.
Sometimes, you have to reach your lowest in order to find out what’s true: that God loves you and that nothing will ever separate you from the love of God. That as you drag your way back home— fearful of the price you’re going to have to pay for leaving, battered and worn out and aged and sorrowful—the last face you expect to see is the tear-drenched face of your Father who never stopped waiting for you to come home.”
This book reached my heart with a depth I didn’t imagine when I started on the first page. I haven’t come from a church that has broken up and destroyed lives. I am blessed to be part of a godly church body that so far has remained focussed on the gospel and God’s glory. I have many people around me who love me and pray for me and my family. However, there have been times when I have been hurt by some of God’s people. I have been disappointed by those who I thought would never reject or dismiss me. I have been plagued by difficulties; health, finances, relationships, problems of my own making etc. that have often caused me to pull inward in “self-preservation” and pull away from the Lord because I sinfully doubted His goodness and feared that things would never get better. I know hopelessness, defeat and personal pain and I know what it means to doubt whether God hears or cares.
Fractured Faith is a loving message from the Lord, through Lina Abujamra, to me at this time in my life for His glory and my growth. I’m absolutely sure there is something in this book for you too…
August 21, 2021
f you guys aren't familiar with Lina Abujamra I highly recommend you check out her ministry! Her podcast, Living With Power, often tackles complex issues that are addressed with simple, biblical truths. If you get bored easily, Lina is perfect for you because she talks FAST so you have to pay attention to keep up! 😅
Her new book, Fractured Faith, is phenomenal! I was blessed enough to receive an advanced copy. If you have ever gone though trying or questioning times in your faith -- perhaps you are there now -- this book is for you.
"God doesn't ask us to deny the pain that's been inflicted on us. God doesn't ask us to minimize the pain we feel. God doesn't ask us to bury our pain or ignore it. God doesn't even ask us to understand our pain. God simply asks us to turn over our pain to a loving Father who is more than able to do the right thing on our behalf, even when we least expect Him to and always when we don't expect Him to anymore."
This is a phenomenal book and it reads easily. I highly recommend it.
Her new book, Fractured Faith, is phenomenal! I was blessed enough to receive an advanced copy. If you have ever gone though trying or questioning times in your faith -- perhaps you are there now -- this book is for you.
"God doesn't ask us to deny the pain that's been inflicted on us. God doesn't ask us to minimize the pain we feel. God doesn't ask us to bury our pain or ignore it. God doesn't even ask us to understand our pain. God simply asks us to turn over our pain to a loving Father who is more than able to do the right thing on our behalf, even when we least expect Him to and always when we don't expect Him to anymore."
This is a phenomenal book and it reads easily. I highly recommend it.
August 22, 2021
Christian or not – everyone has struggled with their faith or notion of “faith”. Is there a God, does he see me and does he even care? This book considers the factors that may lead to the deconstruction of one’s faith and assure the reader they are not in unchartered territory with their doubts and questions. Through unashamed transparency, Lina shares her experiences along with those of biblical characters who also struggled and offers assurances for the basis of a reconstruction of trust for a faith that’s firm. As churches and people all over the world are hitting a "reset button" in returning to meeting in-person after a pandemic, this book is timely and well worth reading.
June 12, 2023
I picked up this book as a deconstructing Christian, drawn to the title and subtitle. I knew within the first couple chapters that this book wasn’t written for me. The author tries to address “church hurt”, drawing from very vague references to her own church hurt experience, but the vagueness causes the message to seem aloof. The Bible stories she summarizes and applies to each chapter seem trite.
That being said, the last two chapters of the book were refreshing and more helpful than the rest.
Bottom line is that if you’re deconstructing, this book is not for you. If you’re a Christian who has had some disappointments surrounding church, maybe this book is for you. If you like vague, impersonal lessons about how to keep your faith, bolstered by summations of the stories of Job, Peter, and Abraham, this book is definitely for you.
That being said, the last two chapters of the book were refreshing and more helpful than the rest.
Bottom line is that if you’re deconstructing, this book is not for you. If you’re a Christian who has had some disappointments surrounding church, maybe this book is for you. If you like vague, impersonal lessons about how to keep your faith, bolstered by summations of the stories of Job, Peter, and Abraham, this book is definitely for you.
June 16, 2022
I suppose I would rate it 4.5 if I could. If you have been through a hard time, you will hear every thought you've ever had in this book. I can't say the solution was any surprising news to me, although the reality of how that transpires still alludes me. We can't spend our entire life questioning God so we just have to accept what's happened and pray our life fulfills whatever He wants.
August 17, 2021
Love this book…Lina is honest and real, and walks us thru her “walk” of faith. We all struggle with faith at times, which I’m learning is just part of the “normal” Christian life as Lina puts it. This book is filled with great life applications as well as biblical teachings that we can all use to help us understand and grow in our faith, and mature into the child of God He wants us to be. It’s so good and so easy to read that I’ve read a couple of chapters twice, because I needed to “hear” it again!
I highly recommend Fractured Faith!
I highly recommend Fractured Faith!
August 17, 2021
Dr. Lina Abujamra poignantly explores the palpable deconstruction of faith through her personal testimony and with God's word reminds us that He has never left! Privileged to have read an advance copy to its public availability, this book is powerfully impactful and has me reading it now for a third time! Fractured Faith is a phenomenal read both practically and spiritually and highly recommended.
August 17, 2021
Lina provides an honest and wise assessment of what leads to deconstruction of faith, and the absolute truths that outweigh the lies so many believe. A fantastic and timely resource to support to those who may be confused/hurt/disillusioned with the church or God himself, and leading them back to who Christ truly is and the beauty of seeing Him as he is, and then re-engaging as we see the design He has for His Church. So helpful!
Read
August 17, 2021If you have been hurt by other believers, and most of us have at one time or another, and struggling with your pain and your perception of God has been distorted, then I very highly recommend this book. The book contains Lina's story and struggles with ways to learn how to cope, learning about the true character of God with a little humor mixed in. Please, get the book. It will chang uour life.
August 17, 2021
I’m currently reading this book and close to the end. It’s a very encouraging treatment of this subject that we seem to be hearing a lot about lately. The book is part Lina’s story paired with lots of scriptural truth. It’s all about hope in our good, good Father. If you are struggling with what to believe or know someone who is, Lina's compassionate handling of truth will nourish your soul.
August 19, 2021
I started to read Fractured Faith and before I knew it, I had read the first two chapters. Lina’s conviction on how God is always there comes alive through her words. Lina’s honest and sincere story hooks you from the start. If you’ve been hurt by anyone (who hasn’t?) this is a must read.
September 1, 2021
Lina writes so powerfully and so personally. She doesn’t shy away from the nuance of what it means to try to navigate life as a Christian in a broken world of broken systems and broken people. Her story is filled with heartache, disillusionment, and deep disappointment. But it ultimately leads us to hope and to a resolve to stay the course because God has never left us or forsaken us even in our lowest moments, worst sins, and greatest doubts. I’m confident this book will bless so many and allow that lonely doubter who thinks they’re lost for good to slowly find their way back home.
January 31, 2025
It was okay. She has good insights. However, based on the title, I expected more depth and detailed analysis of contemporary trends of theological, philosophical and even experiential deconstruction of faith and abandoning Christ. She focused on the experience aspect.
August 17, 2021
This book is a must read. If you have experienced hurt, questioned where God is during difficult times in your life and want answers, you must read this book.
Lina's writing style is so easy to follow yet profound. She shares her struggles and her experience and points you to God to find healing.
Definitely a life changer. Thanks for writing this book!
Lina's writing style is so easy to follow yet profound. She shares her struggles and her experience and points you to God to find healing.
Definitely a life changer. Thanks for writing this book!
August 19, 2021
This book is a must have for your Bible study collection. Thoughtfully written and challenging. Lina always points you to biblical truth.
August 17, 2021
From the very beginning, it was like it was wrote just for me. A must read for everyone who has struggles of any sort. It will be released September 7th, so go ahead and pre-order your copy today, you will not be disappointed! Love the book, Lina!!!
December 1, 2021
I was unsure of how to rate this book. It was different from what I expected. She has sort of an awkward, abrupt voice, although I wondered if that was her attempt to appeal to a younger generation, those who are more likely to tAlk about their faith in God being “deconstructed.” The book felt a bit disjointed to me.
Some of her points were painfully obvious and predictable. And yet there were other lines or paragraphs where she absolutely hit the nail on the head with her insight. I have a couple of very personal takeaways from her book, which opened my eyes to identify my sin more specifically in my marriage. Those gems were well worth the read.
I also really appreciated her obvious transparency and love for God and his Word. And I totally agree that, whatever your disappointment or heartbreak with the church or expectations that God has not met, the ONLY place you will find resolution is in God’s Word, as he speaks to you.
I read this for the sake of an acquaintance who’s had trauma and hurt in her conservative Christian upbringing. I’m still considering recommending it to her.
Some of her points were painfully obvious and predictable. And yet there were other lines or paragraphs where she absolutely hit the nail on the head with her insight. I have a couple of very personal takeaways from her book, which opened my eyes to identify my sin more specifically in my marriage. Those gems were well worth the read.
I also really appreciated her obvious transparency and love for God and his Word. And I totally agree that, whatever your disappointment or heartbreak with the church or expectations that God has not met, the ONLY place you will find resolution is in God’s Word, as he speaks to you.
I read this for the sake of an acquaintance who’s had trauma and hurt in her conservative Christian upbringing. I’m still considering recommending it to her.
September 7, 2021
Lina Abujamra hits her stride as a writer/teacher in Fractured Faith. She's got a strong grasp on how Scripture can—and should—encourage, direct, and heal us when we've been through, or are in the midst of painful circumstances. Abujamra wisely does not try to answer existential questions such as Where is God when hard things happen? Or, Why didn't God prevent hard things from happening in the first place? Instead, she acknowledges the pain and prompts us to press into our faith, even when the ground is shaking under our feet. (I do wish that she had talked more about what happened to her in her church context. Not because I like gossip, but because it would have helped me to better understand her journey.)
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