If You Only Knew ...

by Chad Varga, Lisa Yoder (Collaborator), Dave Roever (Foreword)

Non-fiction

139 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Eric]

I recently heard Chad speak at our church to the youth group and our main congregation. He was a very successful basketball player who gave it all up to share his message of hope. I met some of his family, including his mother, and have known some of his extended family. Let me say that this guy is the real deal. He doesn't beat around the bush when it comes to addressing the hopelessness that's plaguing our culture. And he meets it head-on with a message that moved me and many others to tears! Varga tells his story of how he and his sister were raised by an abusive mother who was hooked on drugs (he says, "to you, it's a story, to me, it really happened."). The things he saw as a child were appalling, yet he's found since reaching adulthood that his life as an abused child wasn't the extraordinary, but more of the norm. The reoccurring theme throughout the book is, "Jesus, give me peace! Jesus, give me peace!" And I won't spoil it, but you have to read to the end!

This book is an easy read for younger adults with a powerful message that our hope, our peace, can only be found in Jesus Christ.

Blessings!

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the 7th graders where I volunteer gave me this, her favorite book, and wanted me to read it. I was a little reluctant, at first, because I'm not really "into" basketball, but I thought if it meant enough to her for her to give it to me, that I would read it. It was actually a very good story. Horrific childhood circumstances and the redemption of Jesus through forgiveness and grace.

My favorite quote: "Chad, do you want the credit or the reward? You see, getting the credit means earthly praise and recognition for what you do in life, in ministry. Getting the reward, though! That's God's praise and it doesn't even compare to the other. Never worry about who gets the credit; always seek the reward." - Dave Roever

I do wonder why this book is the 7th grader's favorite. Can she identify with the childhood trauma or does she like the story of redemption? I plan to ask next time I see her.

[Lance M. Sacknoff · Rating 1 out of 5]

Varga went through a lot, sure, but the entire book spins around how he knows Jesus is in his life. I might feel more inspired if he spent more time talking about how his drive to play well gave him freedom or how his optimism in the face of tragedy motivated him to power through what must've been a very traumatic upbringing. Instead, Varga opts to talk about Jesus/God as if he/she was a super hero. It's formulaic (Bad thing happens + something/someone saves him from it = Jesus had a hand in it) and that continues throughout the entire book.

[Kelly Ann · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was given to me by a former student. He said it really helped him a lot and he was inspired by it. Not the most inspirational book I've ever read...

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

really great book it is amazing what some people can counce back from

[Robert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got the opportunity to hear Chad present his message of hope and forgiveness. What a great guy and what an inspiration!

[Paul Sessions · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put it down. Best book I've read in a long time!