Never Alone: Ruth, the Modern Military Spouse, and the God Who Goes With Us

by Jessica Manfre

Faraway lands, fear, and faith—Ruth paves the way for our story. One day when author and military spouse Jessica Manfre was reading the book of Ruth, she had an epiphany. Ruth is the story of every military spouse. In the book of Ruth, we witness a woman’s brave journey—one of loss, loneliness, and loyalty. A story of love and faith. Does that sound familiar? These are the hallmarks of the military life. While our lives are fraught with heartache and sacrifice, that isn’t the whole of our stories. Ruth is a hero that has gone before us, offering encouragement and strength. Through her, we witness the beauty of hope and share in the healing power of friendship. We discover that even when all seems lost and completely hopeless, we are Never Alone . God is always with us. And He’s leading us through our own story of redemption. He’s restoring the hardships and healing the wounds of despair. He’s transforming our pain and building our trust. Even when we’re wandering in a faraway, foreign land, He is not lost and has not lost us. Join Jessica in studying a story that was meant for you . Jessica explores topics like the fundamental need for connection, the clinical mental health implications of loneliness, preparing your heart for loss (she writes from experience), friendship, and much more. This resource is for every military spouse who desires to strengthen relationships, live in authentic community, and walk with God.

Genres: Nonfiction

144 pages, Paperback

Published March 7, 2023

Reviews

[Chelsea Pfannenstiel · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading this book I feel uplifted, encouraged and reminded that I am truly Never Alone. I absolutely love how the author walks the reader through the book of Ruth, identifying key themes and relating it to the military life. It’s such a unique and refreshing way of looking at life as a military spouse. The author is a licensed social worker and can relate to the reader through shared experiences but also brings knowledge and wisdom to help us unpack those experiences. I felt as though the author was speaking directly to me. Even though we don’t share all the same experiences, I felt as though we were chatting over a cup of coffee and she already knew my heart. There is something in this book for everyone, military affiliated or otherwise!

[Ashley Ashcraft · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a military spouse, you naturally encounter loneliness, whether due to your husband's absence or moving to a new installation. In Never Alone, Jess Manfre sees us. Through honest stories and her clinical knowledge as a licensed social worker, she helps us understand the various aspects of loneliness. But thankfully, Jess doesn't leave us with just an understanding of why we feel the way we do. Using the book of Ruth, she offers us hope that God sees us and that He can lead us to freedom from the loneliness we often experience in the military. Not only is this book helpful, but it also provides much-needed comic relief for the often stressed-out military spouse!

[Kelly Yannetta Cheeseman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book is like chatting with your bestie. Jess gives from her soul and pours into your cup as you read through the chapters. I love the style of writing and the message is so powerful! Definitely a must-read for military spouses, those who wish to better understand the military experience, or those who support the military community.

[Teri Bevill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though this book is heavily contextualized to military spouses, loneliness is something everyone has experienced. I love how Jessica used her clinical background, personal experience, and biblical knowledge to equip readers with tools and encouragement when they are facing hardship. A must read for anyone who has ever felt alone!

[Maddie McLaughlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not what I expected, but good. I appreciated how the author tied in how each chapter related to Ruth’s story because at times, it was hard to see how she would bring it back around. More of a self-help book, but I liked how she (as a therapist) brought in practical ways to apply biblical truths on how to deal with the subject of each chapter.

[Shandi F · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for any military spouse and or anyone who is married to anyone who moves a lot. It has a great way bringing Christianity, hope, and enough clinical observation/real life experiences to make me feel like the writer actually knew me and we were just having a conversation.

[Danica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is must read for any military (or civilian) spouse. The author explores the story of Ruth and how it addresses the issue of loneliness. It is a book that I could have used a decade ago.