Friday, April 23, 2010

Book Drawing: Thin Places by Mary DeMuth

“Isn’t it ironic that I have the deepest fellowship with Jesus when I give up my need to control the relationships in my life? My relationship with Him grows rich when I place my reputation in the hands that are scarred by the hatred of others.”


“Stupid, stupid hyperactive conscience! How it gets me in trouble. How it harangues me, stifles me, keeps me from experiencing Jesus. I’m so busy recounting my losses and failures, then determining to “do better” that I miss His capability inside me. I am so capable, so in control, that I miss His power.”

“Folks may wonder why I’ve spent all this time looking back, dredging up what God sees of my story, what my eyes see. Jesus says truth sets people free. This is my way of doing that—of telling the stark truth on the page so others can be set free. .. why do I go through all this recollection? So God can renew me so I can help others find healing.”


These are quotes from Mary DeMuth’s amazing memoir, “Thin Places,” in which she opens her heart to reveal painful memories of abuse, abandonment and rejection.


But, wait! Mary also offers hope for anyone who’s struggled with these same hurts. Hope in a Father God whose love is more than enough to heal and restore. Hope in the Jesus who redeems the broken places of our lives, turning us into trophies of His grace. Hope in the Holy Spirit whose power operates independently of our performance.



I am gifting my copy of “Thin Places” in a drawing to be chosen from those who leave a comment and their email address at the end of this post. I pray and believe that God will direct me to pick the person who most needs to read Mary’s story. Someone who needs to know they’re not alone, that God can and will help them out of their pit of despair into His gleaming freedom.



You have until Tuesday, April 27 at noon to enter. I will post the winner on Wednesday, April 28.

I love you all,

Jen

24 comments:

  1. I already have a copy, Jen. And I bought another to give to a friend. This book is simply amazing. Life-changing writing at it's finest. I recommend it to anyone and everyone.

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  2. I'm with Katie...I have a copy, but also wanted to come say hi to you and mention that I thoroughly enjoyed the book too.
    ~ Wendy

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  3. Hi Jeanette! Oh, how I have missed you! I remember when I read your review on this book I wanted to read it. These quotes are incredible and just 'sealed the deal' I woud LOVE to read this book! Have a great Friday!

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  4. What a book, Jeanette! Love your blog.

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  5. I'd love a chance in your drawing.

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  6. I would love a chance to win this book. I need to read it.
    Blessings, andrea

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  7. Already have the book! Love you gifting it! What a doll!

    Blessings,
    Patti

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  8. Love the part about the "hyperactive conscience." I can relate to that. I bother about things most people don't even consideer. From the little clip, it sounds like this woman is a wonderful writer.

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  9. Love the quotes you posted! Sounds like an excellent book! I'd be honored to be entered in your drawing! morgan(dot)maria(dot)i(at)gmail(dot)com

    Have a blessed weekend, Jen!!

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  10. Have heard so many good things about this book. Thanks for sharing these thoughts.
    Have a blessed weekend,
    Karen
    klange61(at)hotmail(dot)com

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  11. Well, Nancy, you are dear. Thanks for the kind words about my writing.

    I'm humbled to be mentioned here, and I do pray the book truly, truly blesses whoever receives it.

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  12. I have heard so much about this book - I think it's a must read.
    Hope all is well with you and your family Jen. I'll be in touch soon with an update!
    Blessings!
    jancline@ymail.com

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  13. I'd love to read this book. Thanks for offering it as a give away. Hope to see you at the next writer's group.

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  14. I would love the opportunity to read it and not only have it minister to me, but perhaps to be able to pass it on.

    Thanks,
    Lourdes11743[at]gmail[dot]com

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  15. I would love to win a copy because I have a dear friend who might just read it and find the hope she is looking for.

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  16. I would love to win a copy because I have a dear friend who might just read it and find the hope she is looking for.

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  17. I, too, have heard good things about "Thin Places."
    In my writing and teaching, the Lord continuously ensures that I learn the lessons before I can communicate them. Only then can I be transparent with others. Of course, the best lessons are those in which I am brought face to face with my own limitations and my need to fully depend on God.
    I would love to read this book...and to identify more of my own "thin places."

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  18. I just found your blog through my friend Parsley's blog , Seasons of My Mind. If you are taking new comments for this drawing, please include me! Have a great weekend!

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  19. Hi Jen -

    Thanks for a preview of Mary's book. Please enter me.

    susanjreinhardt (at) gmail (dot) com

    Blessings,
    Susan :)

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  20. Thanks for discussing this interesting book. I am completing a graduate course of studies and looking forward to gaining the credentials to become a family counselor to families who have deaf or hard of hearing members. The issues discussed in Thin Places are among the experiences clients bring to the counseling setting. God bless you.

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  21. Jeanette, that book was difficult for me to read, (I have it.) But I know it will help many people. Bless Mary for being brave enough to write it.

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  22. I would love a copy! I love your description of the book. It made it sound like something worth reading.

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  23. Oh, I know something about that 'hyperactive conscience' part. That's pure misery, is what that is.

    Beth Moore tied perfectionism and deep insecurity together on her "So Long, Insecurity" simulcast over the weekend.

    I know a bit about the 'p' word, too, I'm afraid.

    Sighing...

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  24. Jen:
    I had a copy and gave it to the head of one of the ministries I support.
    It's late Tues. afternoon. I know God will allow you to give it to the one He wants to have it.

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Oh, it's YOU! I'm so happy to see you here today, and look forward to reading your comments.