The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms

by Michelle Bengtson

Hope for When the Pain Won't Quit

Everyone experiences pain at times. It can manifest physically, emotionally, relationally, or spiritually. It can follow tragic accidents, great loss, sudden betrayal, or unexpected and unwanted change. Often it is temporary. But what do you do when it isn't? When the pain just won't go away, when healing does not come, when the grief and hurt settle in?

Drawing on her own experience of chronic pain and her years as a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist, Dr. Michelle Bengtson provides a countercultural perspective on pain. Offering hope without any false promises or empty platitudes, Dr. Bengtson unwraps the complex emotional aspects of dealing with pain. She gives you permission to question God, helps you identify the lies you've believed about your pain, and reorients your perception based on the truth of God's Word. Each chapter ends with a recommended playlist, reflection questions, and a prayer.

Your pain may not change, but your experience of it can.

Genres: Christian Living, Self Help, God, Faith, Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

Published August 1, 2023

Reviews

[Cherie Denna · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is every Christian will benefit from adding The Hem of His Garment to their ‘frequent reading’. Dr. B wrote a book every person can relate to in some way. I’ll be ordering a few to keep on hand.

[Becky Saddler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enjoying reading this new book by Dr. Michelle Bengtson. She guides, patterns and encourages us as she herself is going through pain. This book is for anyone going through pain of any kind. You can be helped by hearing her struggles and her sharing of her faith in Jesus Christ.

I just finished reading this wonderfully helpful book! It is a must have on the shelf of any pastor, counselor or administrator. Pain is so prevalent in today's society and Dr. Michelle tackles the tough issues. Get yours pre-ordered today!

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hem of His Garment by Dr. Michelle Bengtson was an inspiration. Through several months of sickness this year, the words of this author helped remind me that times of adversity and sorrow can bring us closer to our Savior. He doesn’t bring bad things to us, but God knows that we can grow stronger, be more encouraged in Him through suffering, as He walks beside us. And the joy that waits for us in Him in the end is so worth those weary moments in life. If you are going through physical, mental, emotional, relational or spiritual pain, this book will be such an encouragement as Dr. Michelle incorporates scripture throughout to point the reader to God for everything. Because He is our everything!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Diana Rockwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book to anyone who has suffered from pain whether it is emotional, or physical. The author teaches coping mechanisms. She provides practical things to do while in your journey with pain. She encourages through the stories of many in the Bible interweaving her story. She addresses the cliches about pain. She gives us ways to cope with pain. It is the first book that I have read that has offered hope to someone who has not been healed. She asks the hard questions, ones that as a fellow pain suffer you think but you don't ask, like why hasn't God healed me? Why isn't God answering my prayers? I am in awe of this book. It will not disappoint you. Blessings Diana

[Lori Jorgensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have Rheumatoid arthritis and live with physical, mental and emotional pain from this. No to mention that life happens and that causes pain. Living with people who you love but still that causes pain. Heck even my relationship with Christ causes pain. This book - oh my goodness I can’t say enough about it there just isn’t words to describe how it spoke to me and my soul right where I needed it most!!!

[Pamela Filomeno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever had the feeling that the person who wrote the book you are reading hasn't actually BEEN through or experienced what you are experiencing? Well, this book is different! When reading The Hem Of His Garment, it is evident Dr. Michelle Bengtson actually HAS walked the hard steps of pain. She engages the reader by taking their hand and being that person who says "I've been there. I understand the struggles. And you can get to the other side as I have." She becomes the encouraging friend who meets you where you are and shows you life can be different when you reach out for the only One (Christ) who can truly make a life-changing difference! Thank you, Dr. B, for another well written book that I can relate to and glean encouragement from!

[Heidi Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enjoying reading this book slowly and ever so surprised that Michelle shares examples of her own pain! This isn’t from someone who has “arrived” and that has really been refreshing to read!

[Michelle Welch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Michelle once again brings wisdom and grace to the hurting. This book was born out of pain, both physical and relational. She takes the reader on a raw and real journey, pulling no punches along the way. Her explanations, scriptural references and takeaways are a much needed balm for those walking through the valley. There is no one without pain. So truly this book is for everyone.

[Bunny Yekzaman · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book. "The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms," I have been so moved by the raw truth that Dr. Michelle Bengtson shares about her journey of pain. I feel as if I am sitting with her having an honest conversation about how to deal with my pain in life and how to keep focused on the Lord through it.
This is such a practical and inspiring book that lifts your spirit and draws you right to the source of healing and strength in times of deep pain. No matter what's the cause of that pain, you are sure to find the encouragement you need to press on. You will learn how to sit in the arms of Jesus to let Him carry you through it. I think this is her best book yet because she wrote it not on the other side of her pain but in the midst of it. God bless you Dr. Michelle.

[Naomi's Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often feel emotional with books but it is rare for me to cry. This book brought me to tears multiple times because I was fed spiritually and emotionally as I walked through my pain journey in each chapter. Every verse was a balm that the reached my heart. The author was so vulnerable that you can feel her pain and struggle. It was impactful and raw and biblical in every sense. The balance between the Bible and personal stories was perfect as it was approachable with a strong, visible foundation. I knew within the first 10 pages that this is one of my favourites this year.

I received an arc via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish this book had been available two years ago when my arm pain was so severe, I didn't know how I was going to make it through the day at my job where I spend most of the day typing which made the pain so much worse. Michelle Bengtson, who is no stranger to severe pain in all of its forms, is transparent and real in this book as she shares her experiences, her struggles and how she has dealt with her pain as a Christian who trusts in and believes God.

She not only deals with physical pain, but those caused by relational issues, spiritual issues, mental health issues, etc. She has been hurt emotionally, but still trusts that God will always be present. The encouragement she gives while needing encouragement herself is inspiring. I can think of many people who could benefit from her experience and wisdom.

This book is sent from God through a person who cares so much about others that she wrote this book while in the middle of pain and trials. I would recommend this book as well as her books on depression and anxiety.

[Fern A · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully written book of encouragement. Dr. Michelle Bengston is well placed to write this book on pain due to both her work as a neuropsychologist and through her own personal experiences. The book is written in such a way that you can both read it from cover to cover (as I did) or pick out a section that is most suitable for you at a specific moment. With her intended audience in mind, Bengston has structured her book accessibly so that each short chapter ends with a summary, helpful actions to take and also some some song recommendations. I took a lot away reading this and it definitely made me look at my own experiences a new. A book I shall be returning too.

[Isabelle reads a book a day because she has no friends · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a good thing I listened to this on audio, because I wouldn’t have been able to see the pages through my tears.
Just like ‘Breaking Anxiety’s Grip,’ this was exactly the comfort I needed. I feel very heartened that this touches on physical chronic pain and not just emotions.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengston is a Christian Health book. The author is a neuropsychologist, who has experienced excruciating physical pain as well as emotional, too. She is completely open about her experience, and many times I had tears as I read.

The author has an easy to understand style of writing. At times it was like listening to a friend talk. Chapters are short so readers won’t be overwhelmed. At the conclusion of each chapter there are a summary, scriptures, helpful advice for living with chronic pain, and song recommendations. She is totally transparent and comes from a standpoint of having been there herself.

I appreciated that it is suggested that along with medical treatments and medication, prayer is an important asset in dealing with pain. The cover and title suggest it is a Christian book, and the author delivered. I agree with her and find it helpful to me, too.

This will be a book that will be kept for future reference. It would be something to share with those that are grieving a loved one, have chronic pain, or a disease. I gleaned so much by reading it. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest thoughts.

[Debbie Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Sometimes pain and suffering are just that. They don't always make you stronger. They don't always build your character. Sometimes they just hurt. And there's space for that without trying to wrap it up in a pretty bow. Can we just acknowledge pain and heartache without trying to pretty them up to make ourselves and those around us feel better?" (p. 58). In this book, Dr. Michelle Bengston provides her readers with a balance of raw honesty, grit, and incredible hope found in the promises of God's Word. Having lived through multiple types of pain herself, Michelle's words of encouragement make her book accessible to anyone who has experienced pain, whether physical, financial, mental, emotional or more.

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, The Hem Of His Garment. The place we
reach for when the pain is intense is what the book Michelle wrote is all about. The book that she wrote while experiencing
pain herself.
After reading this book I know that more of us will understand what pain is, because pain is not always physical. Many of us have scars from the past and our wounds heal but our scars last forever. You may be reading my review along with others and are thinking should I buy and read this book. The answer is yes. Yes, because you are someone that has experience pain in the past, you are going through a season of pain currently, you will experience pain one day or you are walking beside someone who is walking in pain today.

[Kristine Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

An encouraging must-read for pain sufferers. Dr. Bengtson provides hope, inspiration, and wisdom from her own journey in this nonfiction faith-based book. I read a chapter each day, highlighting quotes to remember and putting into practice the tips at the end of each. I appreciated the prayers for the reader at the end of each chapter, as well. I highly recommend for anyone experiencing pain and searching for hope.

[Tonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d give The Hem of His Garment ten stars if I could. Dr. Michelle Bengtson expertly walks us through how to face and cope with persistent pain in any form it may come. She points out the value in acknowledging our pain while showing us how the Bible says we aren’t meant to camp out in it. We are meant to walk through it. Even though it is difficult, we serve a steadfast God and Dr. Bengtson draws from Scripture by studying various stories filled with pain and lays out a battle plan readers can go back to repeatedly.

[DL (Donna) Rudd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michelle does it again! As I read from her experiences, knowledge, and trust in her faith in God, she shares hope and a relatable to the reader with her words.

Such a good reference book.
I will be sharing it with my coaching clients.

[Vicki Sellers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suffering through pain is never easy! And often we feel we are going through it alone! But in Michelle’s newest book she shares her experiences and her testimony of how we can navigate the hard seasons of life. Not alone, and finding good even in the midst of bad! Beautiful message and one I highly recommend!

[Janis McAdoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a treasure trove of hope for people experiencing all kinds of pain. I really loved towards the beginning of the book when she says, "I've learned we are meant to go through the storms of life - not camp out there." She highlights one word - through - that's repeated several times in the scripture Isaiah 43:2-3. God's way is THROUGH. We will experience painful situations, but we won't have to go through them alone. God will be with us, directing our steps. That's a hope-filled perspective!

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

First sentence: About a year prior to the release of my first book, I was deathly ill,, on medically prescribed bed rest, and being kept alive with IV hydration and nutrition.

The Hem of His Garment is part-testimony, part advice for fellow sufferers. Each chapter has a good amount of storytelling, some devotional style sermon-ettes, a few practical prescriptions to further the chapter's themes, and songs for a suggested playlist.

The intended audience is a) those currently in the midst of pain and suffering b) those that have been in the midst of pain and suffering c) those walking alongside those experiencing pain and suffering (caregivers, etc.) d) pastors who want to better minister to their congregations--some of which may be in the midst of pain and suffering.

There are thirteen chapters in total.

Disclaimer: I read this one is bits. I'd read two or three chapters in one sitting, but, then not pick it up again for a week or two. So I read it in about five or six sittings...but over a period of six or seven weeks. I wouldn't be surprised if I started it in July to be honest. My recall for earlier chapters is on the weak side. I did read the last four chapters in the past two or three days. So my strongest recollection is for the last section of the book.

This is not the first book I've read on pain nor will it be the last. Is it unique? Yes and no. Unique in that it contains very personal stories of the author's own experiences with pain and suffering. Obviously her testimony is her testimony. Is the subject matter unique? Not really. Nor is her approach to the subject matter. There is nothing new, novel, unique about what she has to say about pain and suffering. Is that necessarily bad? No. I'd be more worried if she'd claimed otherwise. But is it worth reading? I'm conflicted. Honestly, and this is just my personal opinion, this could have been condensed to a couple of blog posts. Yes, I know few are still blogging. Yes, I know that dedicated blog readers are few and far between. But the advice could be greatly condensed--perhaps even to a pamphlet--because there isn't really anything new to add to the subject.

Personally--and I'm aware this sounds horrible--I could have used more Scripture, more theology, and less testimony.


There were a handful of things that slightly bothered me. Nothing horribly major or glaring. For example, her advice to NOT associate or "find affinity" with negative people and/or negative situations. You are to choose your friends, apparently, based on how cheerful and joyful they are...and drop them if they start to complain or grumble when life gets rough. You are to think positive, be positive, associate only with the positive. Which just sounds unrealistic and potentially rude. I mean are you going to hand out surveys and interview for friends? Are you going to accept them on a trial basis? This seems contradictory as well, since you are supposed to find comfort in those with shared experiences and walk alongside others who are suffering. I get stressing the importance of rejoicing in God and finding gratitude, of accepting circumstances and using it as an opportunity to rely on God, to strengthen one's relationship with God. That's GREAT. I think part of extending grace (and this is something she encourages readers to do) is extending grace to all the relationships in our lives. And if you can't extend grace and forgive others who have negative moments, then aren't you picking and choosing?

Another statement that rattled me a bit--at first glance, less so on second glance--is her statement that God is a God who heals; he cannot not heal. I think this could be so easily misunderstood. I am not saying that the author is advocating this mentality. But there are definitely a group of those who do advocate the idea that if you are not healed, it is because of your lack of faith. If you are not healed of this or that, then you are either a) living in unrepentant sin and it is all your fault b) not asking with enough faith and it is all your fault c) you are not really a Christian and so God is not obligated to answer your prayer and it is all your fault. Again, I am NOT saying this is the author's position. I am NOT. Just that that one statement could trigger all kinds of feelings and reactions. It could be misunderstood by those that have been hurt before. It could be clung to and be a kind of false hope. The truth is, God can choose to heal us (in this lifetime) OR God can choose NOT to heal us (in this lifetime). God in his sovereign will and great wisdom can CHOOSE not to heal. God is not obligated to heal anyone at anytime. We are to pray that God's will be done. Sometimes that means accepting not yet, not now, or rock-solid NO.

To a lesser degree, she says that it is a lie of the devil who whispers to us that we "will always hurt." I again think this is a very generalized statement. To those that live with chronic conditions, chronic pain, chronic situations, this seems NOT a lie necessarily but just an acceptance of reality. Yes, you can pray for healing, pray for a miracle, pray for grace, take joy in God, find hope in who God is and what He has promised. You can still rejoice in the Lord always. You can still find plenty to be thankful for. You can still seek to bring glory to God, seek to serve Him. It doesn't have to be despairing or "being negative" to realize that you will most likely have physical limitations that others may never have or experience. It doesn't make you a victim, nor mean you are embracing a victim mentality, or wallowing in self-pity. (All of those are in the don't do these things chapter).

[Sue Kuenzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I heard Dr. Michelle Bengtson was writing a new book, (which will be released August 1st, 2023) called The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms, I knew it would be excellent. Michelle writes from the unique perspective of a trained neuropsychologist who has also experienced the same kinds of battles we all face. She’s experienced very tough times with her health, and Michelle is no stranger to physical or emotional pain.

That’s what I love about this book. Dr. Bengtson wrote this book with all of us in mind. She wrote it from her heart, from her own very painful experiences, and from both her professional and personal perspective. And best of all, she wrote it as a follower of Jesus who had the courage to reach out for the hem of His garment.

I loved Michelle’s words about the woman in the biblical account who boldly reached out for the hem of Christ’s garment, hoping for healing:

“Not only did Jesus physically heal the woman, but he saw her, he validated her and her worth, he offered her a future, and he gave her a testimony, none of which she would have experienced simply in the absence of pain and suffering.”

Michelle wrote this book in the furnace of affliction in her own life. As a result, her words offer hope, and the pages deliver rich and valuable truths. As a person with chronic pain she truly gets it. She understands how raw our emotions become after sleepless nights and life’s unrelenting demands. She also knows that not all pain is physical. Emotional pain, relational pain…so many kinds of pain enter our lives in this fallen world. This book is for all of us.

As a counselor (now retired), I have assisted many people with both physical and emotional pain. I have helped people whose earlier life trauma needed healing. I am delighted to have this book in my hands as a resource. I live with multiple sclerosis, and I'm accustomed to living with pain. I've had pain management help from a specialist. This comprehensive look at the whole realm of pain is the best I have seen. Dr. Michelle Bengtson has created a hope-filled book in the midst of her own suffering and the fires of affliction. One of the loneliest aspects of pain is that not everyone can understand, but in this author, we find a woman who truly does get it. And she accurately shares biblical truths that have helped her and many of us to find relief, encouragement, hope and the strength to carry on living even when the shadows of pain loom large in our lives.

This book, and the biblical story of the woman who reached out in desperation to touch the hem of His garment, came to mind often recently while sitting at the bedside of one of my parents in the hospital as she fought to survive. While suffering is never easy (nor is it actually optional in life in a fallen world), the beautiful gift in the midst of tough times is that we encounter Jesus in powerful, transformative ways.

The gift of this book, which I know I will treasure for many years to come, is just that. In the pages of this book, we encounter Jesus, and as a result, we receive the power we need to persevere. We receive healing and experience the beautiful gift He offers us. To be seen, validated, loved and treasured. No longer unclean and shunned by others…all because we boldly reached out to touch His hem, and in return, we received His tender love and the power we need to go on.

Thank you, Michelle, for writing through those tough times of physical pain, health challenges, and for creating another book that will lead people into His Presence where we are seen, heard, loved, and cared for tenderly. When we are weak, He is strong. His grace is truly sufficient. I received an advance release copy as part of the launch team, and bought the paperback from Amazon. So thankful I did.

[Tara Rounds · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hem of His Garment was a much needed life raft at this time of my struggling, starting to lose my faith, and searching for strength, God, and Hope.
     This book isn't just about those with physical pain, chronic pain but those going through any kind of pain (relationship, financial, grief, emotional, spiritual, secondary pain or a combination of these). It is for those struggling with their faith and doubting God, wondering where He is? Why isn't He helping? Does God even see me, my tears? Does God even Care? This is a book even for those who don't know God and are seeking help. God is here for you in your pain, He sees, He knows, He cares, He loves you. This book gives comfort, guidance, encouragement and hope that in our pain we are not alone, we can persevere in this journey,
and that are pain isn't wasted but God has a plan and purpose for our pain that can be good and give Glory to Him.
Each chapter includes a person story from the author; Scripture to strengthen, encourage, and give hope; reflection questions; a prayer; and a playlist of songs for praise, worship, and encouragement. The chapters contain scriptures, Biblical examples, and take away nuggets to use and apply as you walk through your pain and struggles.
I appreciate the author's honesty and vulnerability in sharing some of her trials, struggles, and feelings and not judging or minimizing struggles or feelings of others. Dr. Michelle Bengtson leads us on a path of defining pain, processing pain, changing our focus and thoughts, and growing on your journey.
All opinions in this review are my own. I recommend this book for everyone as we are all dealing with some kind of pain or we know someone struggling with pain. Pick up a copy today.

[Gay Idle · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we're walking, or sometimes just crawling from moment to moment, through pain of any kind it can really help to hear from someone who has or is currently experiencing similar trials...someone who has been faithful in reaching out and taking hold of the hem of His garment and holding on for dear life.
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is that person. Michelle comes from a place of experience, from a place of desperate hope, and unwavering trust in the One who promised to never leave us, to walk with us during those painful afflictions and trials.

She has written from the crucible of indescribable pain, pushing through so that you and I might be encouraged and given the strength and assurance that we are not alone. She encourages us to hold onto the truth that God is with us and will protect us from the enemy's schemes to destroy our faith.

She covers every possible pain scenario, whether you are experiencing physical, emotional, relational, financial, or spiritual pain, grief, or loss, and goes through the questioning and thoughts that we commonly experience when walking this road. But she doesn't just lay out the logistics, she encourages us to hold on and trust in the God who hears and heals.

This is a great resource to have on hand when you don't know what to do or say to a friend who is suffering and would make a very compassionate gift.

[Peg Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Michelle Bengtson has written several spectacular books, but in my opinion “The Hem of His Garment” may be the best yet. The transparency and vulnerability in each of her previous books made her words come alive and gave them credibility. Each book has been an invaluable, wisdom-filled, resource for those who are hurting.

Now Dr. Bengtson’s newest release, “The Hem of His Garment” steps further into the world of pain and suffering, offering personal insight and renewed hope. It is raw and real, transparent and vulnerable, showing in vivid color her pain, her struggles, and her grit. But mostly it shows her bold faith and determination to win the battle while waiting on God’s perfect timing and provision. I highly recommend this book. It is a beautiful collaboration between Dr. Bengtson and the Holy Spirit. You may find yourself holding back the tears as you journey with her through her pain and see yours in the midst of it.

I hope many will read this book and join Dr. Bengtson as she walks hand-in-hand with the Holy Spirit, seeking answers. Journey with her because sometimes there’s “healing” in numbers--you’re not alone--and sometimes there’s victory in knowledge—knowing the character of God. This is where “The Hem of His Garment” excels.

[Kasia Hubbard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will not change your level of pain, but what it WILL do is change your focus, and that changes everything. Dr. Michelle Bengtson takes you on a journey through her own experiences of pain and hurt and her lowest of lows, and shows you just how she held on and made it through the valley. I love, love, love her reminder that while everyone wants the mountain top views, 'mountaintops don't grow fruit, it grows in the valleys." This book is set up in a way that helps you refocus your sight through the pain and helps you on your journey to the other side. I love the authors reflections, her breakdowns and more thorough explanations, The Hem of His garment sections that cover scripture, her "Rx" prescription section that has three different things for you to consider/journal/scriptures to write down on index cards, her personal prayer over you (this is very touching), and her recommended playlist that helps you remember to remember each chapter. Very well done and thoughtful approach from a variety of angles. I highly recommend this for those especially in the valley.
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion*

[Pam Ecrement · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pain is a subject and experience we would all like to avoid, but living life in this world means we will all experience some form and variation of pain more than once. The Hem of His Garment offers an insightful resource and help looking at all types of pain (physical, emotional, relational, financial, spiritual, grief, and secondary pain), and how they tend to overlap and impact each other. Then the author, Dr. Michelle Bengston, gives not only excellent ways to journey through the pain using her own journey through the pain of cancer, miscarriage, depression, relational betrayal, financial pain and more. Most anyone who reads this who has been dealing with some kind of pain or has a loved one who is will quickly say, "She gets it! She nailed it!" She doesn't offer trite ways of coping and vulnerably "tells it like it is" and has been for her while sharing a faith perspective combined with her knowledge as a neuropsychologist. This book is a treasure trove of insight and help without the sometimes simplistic or religious pat answers too often pain sufferers experience. I highly recommend this book.

[Anne Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you experience pain, you need to read this book!

Pain. None of us like it, but all of us will experience it. Dr. Michelle Bengtson, the author of The Hem of His Garment is a Neuropsychologist. She has years of professionally helping others who have experienced painful journeys. And that in itself would give her the credentials to talk about pain. But in addition to that, she shares insights from living with pain personally. Her battle is cancer which is relentless, but her desire to help others is even greater. With her knowledge of God’s Word, she shares the story of the women who sugared for years of pain before following Jesus so she could just touch the hem of his garment.

Page after page is filled with practical ideas as well as insight that we all need, showing us practical ways of dealing with our pain. So whether your pain is physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual, this book will be a huge resource for you. And while it won’t change what you are facing, you’ll find that how you look at your pain will change.

Thank you, Dr. Michelle from the bottom of my wounded heart. May God lead many to read this and be encouraged.

[Charla · Rating 5 out of 5]

One - if not the - most biblically sound books I've read regarding the topic of pain (mental, financial, physical, relational, emotional, or spiritual) in a Christian's life. I appreciate Michelle's transparency. She shares from her personal journey through pain, and she wrote this book from the midst of pain. Not only does she speak on the reality of pain, she prescribes hope through truth, prayer, and ways to put truth into practice. Her writing is as relatable as her story, and I am grateful her book was in my hands and now her words are in my heart. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone living through any variety of chronic pain, and I pray every reader is blessed by God's Word, Michelle's compassion, and the hope that only comes through Christ. Thank you, Michelle for choosing stay the course in spite of pain, for walking through life with Christ, and for pointing your readers to the truth - not cliches - that sets captives free. I'm grateful we're on this journey together.