What do you think?
Rate this book
Impractical Grace
A marriage in ashes, a heartbreaking accident, and an excruciating childhood - is there any limit to God's power to heal, strengthen, and transform? Bishop North helps the members of his ward as they try to overcome life's challenges. Take part in these doctrinal insights to the Savior's grace and love in this compelling novel full of true-to-life stories of hardship and hope.
208 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2011
2 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
John S. Bushman
5 books15 followersOne of my greatest passions is writing. January 2011 will bring the publication of Impractical Grace which has been in creation for the last 10 years. It is a fantastic book that teaches the most important things in life through the vehicle of a great story.
I'm thrilled to be the father of five, the son of two, the brother of seven, and the husband of one. I grew up in Tempe, Arizona and served a mission in the Philippines. Later I got my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Instructional Technology from ASU. Arizona is also where I met the love of my life Tina, fell in love, and married.
Our family then moved to St. Goeorge where I worked as a full time Seminary instructor for ten years. Since then we have moved to Washington State where I teach Institute and coordinate the early morning Seminary program. I love teaching and studying the scriptures with the youth of the Church.
I'm thrilled to be the father of five, the son of two, the brother of seven, and the husband of one. I grew up in Tempe, Arizona and served a mission in the Philippines. Later I got my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Instructional Technology from ASU. Arizona is also where I met the love of my life Tina, fell in love, and married.
Our family then moved to St. Goeorge where I worked as a full time Seminary instructor for ten years. Since then we have moved to Washington State where I teach Institute and coordinate the early morning Seminary program. I love teaching and studying the scriptures with the youth of the Church.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 31, 2011
Author Interview & Book Giveaway for Impractical Grace (ends 2/27) on my blog: http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....
Impractical Grace teaches doctrine and principles in a story format. The book chronicles a new bishop attempting to help 3 members of his ward understand the Lord's atonement and his "impractical grace".
I would recommend this book to any and everyone who would like to better understand grace, a term that is often used but hard to describe. John S. Bushman uses scriptures, as well as quotes from apostles and prophets to teach how the Lord's grace can help and heal us.
I'm sure everyone can relate to at least one of the trials the characters in this book are experiencing: a troubled marriage, a tragic accident, abuse, the inability to forgive someone who has wronged us. The doctrine taught in this book has the ability to change those open enough to give these principles a try.
Content: Clean
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Source: From Author For Review
Impractical Grace teaches doctrine and principles in a story format. The book chronicles a new bishop attempting to help 3 members of his ward understand the Lord's atonement and his "impractical grace".
I would recommend this book to any and everyone who would like to better understand grace, a term that is often used but hard to describe. John S. Bushman uses scriptures, as well as quotes from apostles and prophets to teach how the Lord's grace can help and heal us.
I'm sure everyone can relate to at least one of the trials the characters in this book are experiencing: a troubled marriage, a tragic accident, abuse, the inability to forgive someone who has wronged us. The doctrine taught in this book has the ability to change those open enough to give these principles a try.
Content: Clean
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Source: From Author For Review
February 19, 2011
Blown away. Impractical Grace is an important book for our generation. I am going to go buy several copies and start giving them to people that I love (my sisters, my bishop, a couple of nieces and nephews that are about to leave on missions, etc., etc.). I marked the book up with stars and underlines and light bulb sketches and comments like "big", "wow", "never thought of this before" (p. 116), "major", "direct answer to prayer" (p. 160). The book shows that we can overcome difficult challenges in this life (abuse, difficult marriages, personal tragedies) through the atonement of Christ. I loved it.
February 4, 2011
What a wonderful way to explain how the principle of grace can and should work in our lives! I really enjoyed reading this book! I do hope to be able to use the sugesstions in my life to better relationships with others, especially those who may be difficult, for various reasons to forgive. I believe everyone can recognize a little of themselves in the characters, because we all live imperfect lives. Letting ourselves feel God's grace and love really is the only way to have his light in us, so we may pass that light and grace on tho those around us.
February 20, 2013
This book looks at the atonement with deep support from the scriptures but told in a story form as it takes you through the fictional lives of three individuals, sort of like The Peace Giver. It provided me with some additional insights into the concept of grace that I had not considered before and taught me some valuable things. I'll say thank you to my sister for gifting this book to me and apologize for how long it took for me to read it. We can all use some time to ponder the great gift of the atonement so I am grateful for the opportunity to have read this book.
November 2, 2015
This book was not the most well written book. In fact, it left a lot to be desired. However the message that was delivered was so poignant and touching. I have worked so much of my life to forgive people who have hurt me. I feel like I have, but then reading the book, I understand that there is more that I need to do. I need to forgive, not because they deserve it, but because of everything the Lord had done for me. I can't explain my heart, but this was one of the most touching books I have ever read.
February 1, 2011
This book was interesting and engaging as I learned more about Grace and how it can apply in my life. It made me think about Grace in ways I have never thought of. I feel motivated to be a better person and to do better in my life after reading this book.
May 26, 2011
I really enjoyed this book! I was drawn in right from the beginning with the characters. I loved learning about Grace in an easy to understand way. And I know my husband enjoys that I now make an effort to make his lunch for him because of the things I learned in this book! :)
May 3, 2022
The way this was written did not resonate with me, but the message of giving others grace because of the grace we have been given touched me. Loving others and giving grace is not in your heart when you’re keeping score.
August 10, 2011
This is another tricky book to review. It is an incredible resource to anyone wanting to gain a better understanding of grace and the atonement. The way some principles are explained will be truly beneficial to many struggling to let go and forgive. So many questions and concerns are addressed that I often felt amazed that the author could pinpoint them so well, almost as if he knew what I personally was thinking. The story is of a bishop trying to help three individuals and their families find peace and hope in their lives. Most of the book is conversation between these people and their bishop, which, I hate to say because the material was still good and insightful, became a little exhausting. I wanted the story to unfold, to watch and see how changes took place, not just be stuck in the explanation of principles the whole time. (Plus I feel sorry for bishops who might think they have to be like the one in this book--always having the perfect answer and having a million quotes and scripture references on the top of their heads! This was slightly unrealistic to me, and I wouldn't want church members to develop this type of standard for their own bishops.) The gem of the book is that it carefully, thoroughly, and delicately leads up to the three individuals finding a change of heart while considering all of their hangups and personal objections, which was, for the most part very convincing. I was disappointed that the book ended a bit abrubptly after that. The changes that followed in their lives and families are left to be imagined.
On explanation of principles and wonderful insights, I would give it 5 stars. It is a book unique from others and I would recommend it. Just don't expect too much, or you'll be disappointed at the end.
On explanation of principles and wonderful insights, I would give it 5 stars. It is a book unique from others and I would recommend it. Just don't expect too much, or you'll be disappointed at the end.
August 23, 2011
I borrowed this book because our book club was reading it. I wasn't able to attend the night they discussed it, and I hadn't finished it yet anyway. Now that I have finished it, I realize that I really missed out in the discussion of the book. It reminds me of "The Peacegiver," but I like it even better. It's understanding the atonement and God's grace written in a novel form. Lots of principles of the gospel are explained. Here's one of the great quotes: "Grace is being good to a person," Bishop North clarified, "not because that's what they deserve, or earned with you, but because you love them and you want what's best for them. That is the love and grace that God has shown us--impractical grace." Here's another: "The Lord says to us, 'If someone has wronged you, put it on my account. If you've been wronged, let me take care of it.' In forgiving others, you can be free for the first time. The world is looking for someone to blame to feel better, but the Lord says, 'Forgive--and be free.' The Lord will take care of it if there is vengeance to be paid. eave it in His hands. He will take care of you and fill the tempy places in y our heart. It is because He has been so overwhelmingly good to you that you can afford to be incredibly good to others--to forgive anything." (pg 177) The neat this is that I know this author...he's a bishop in our stake. What a great job he has done! I really should buy a copy of the book and read it again sometime.
December 19, 2012
This book enhanced my relationship with the Savior -- I love him. This book helped me understand and appreciate the atonement more and helped me to feel his love. This book was an easy read, but their were times I had to put the book down to really ponder and consider the impact of the message. It was truly meaningful and moving at times. I think all should ponder this book, the impact of the atonement in their lives and seek the Impractical Grace of the Savior.
This book takes the story of an LDS Bishop trying to help various individuals in his ward. Each has their own problem. Through his interactions and teaching with them they come to see how the atonement is meant for them and their specific needs. Great message: No matter who you are or what your problem is, the Atonement is the answer!
This book takes the story of an LDS Bishop trying to help various individuals in his ward. Each has their own problem. Through his interactions and teaching with them they come to see how the atonement is meant for them and their specific needs. Great message: No matter who you are or what your problem is, the Atonement is the answer!
August 11, 2011
Grace is perhaps one of the most profound yet misunderstood core concepts of Christianity. The author uses such a fresh approach to helping the reader understand the power of grace and the immense impact it can have in your life and in your relationships. Rather than just heavy smathering of doctrine and scripture, principles of grace are presented to the reader alongside the stories of three individuals, each with his or her own struggles. Some very powerful thoughts and approaches to thinking about grace are introduced. Profound insight into common scripture is shared.
It's a smooth and enjoyable read.
It's a smooth and enjoyable read.
January 31, 2011
Impractical Grace is a very inspiring book. I love that it is a spiritual message in the form of a story. I learned so much about God's grace and why I should show that grace to others.
At first glance, I thought the title fonts were all wrong. Impractical should be stoic and Grace flowing...graceful. But after reading this book, I love the title fonts. I've learned that Grace can be simple and well defined. And that the Impracticality of God's grace is absolutely beautiful.
I hope many will read this book. And many lives will be changed.
At first glance, I thought the title fonts were all wrong. Impractical should be stoic and Grace flowing...graceful. But after reading this book, I love the title fonts. I've learned that Grace can be simple and well defined. And that the Impracticality of God's grace is absolutely beautiful.
I hope many will read this book. And many lives will be changed.
January 29, 2015
I enjoyed what I learned from reading this book. The doctrine of grace is taught within the storyline of three different situations. I appreciated the scriptural references as well as quotes from General Authorities that helped me know more fully how much the Savior loves us and consequently, how much we can love and forgive others. It caused me to ponder and think about how His grace affects my everyday life and inspired me to do better, not because of any guilt trip, but because I am so incredible indebted and thankful to my Savior! Very inspirational.
December 19, 2012
loved it! It brought a new understanding to me about the atonement of Christ and a better understanding about what it really means for Christ to take upon the sins of the world. Loved it! It looks like a short read about 3 individuals and thier unique relationship with God but to me, it really was unique in explaining the atonement. I needed tissue for this book....
March 21, 2014
This book definitely helped me to understand the doctrine of grace and to grow closer to my Savior. I felt like the stories were realistic and that others could relate to the challenges discussed. I could tell that a lot of detailed research went into the writing of this book.
I received a free electronic copy for my honest review.
I received a free electronic copy for my honest review.
March 4, 2014
Wonderful Book
Wonderful Book
This is a great book full of rich doctrine that is very helpful for all people especially those who are married. It is like a very practical and modern version of the book, What Would Jesus Do? I highly recommend it.
Wonderful Book
This is a great book full of rich doctrine that is very helpful for all people especially those who are married. It is like a very practical and modern version of the book, What Would Jesus Do? I highly recommend it.
February 1, 2011
This is an amazing book. I never knew there was so much to the word GRACE!
December 3, 2011
I do like this book, but it's a bit too contrived. As I was reading I kept thinking it would serve better as a textbook for a religious education class rather than standing alone as a novel.
January 21, 2012
This book has some really great points, but I think the story is a little weak, and I didn't agree with every point that he made.
June 20, 2015
I enjoy being taught gospel principles through narrative and this book is no exception. It teaches how our lives can be changed as we accept the grace of God and show grace to others.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews