Hearts & Hardcovers

Decline PITY PARTIES & invite mercy
Caylin Prince

God has a way of getting our attention. For Caylin Prince it was His words, “Mercy without Me is self-pity.” She took His words to heart and wrote her first book, and it’s an amazing one. It contains 14 chapters, and she captures her reader’s attention through each one. She writes in a style that clear and easy to understand, that will benefit readers of all ages.

I love Bible-based books such as this one. The reader is given ample opportunity to examine themselves and make improvements where warranted.

Lamentations for example. The author does a marvelous job in explaining the true meaning of lamentation. Yes; we think we are lamenting but are actually complaining. Then we share those complaints with others and get no results. Instead of complaining to others, readers are encouraged to take all their cares and concerns to the Lord. He will gladly listen.

What about the “But God” moments in our lives? Times we’ve given up all hope things will change, but God, shows up in ways we least expected. The author points out various scripture verses that start out with a complaint but end with a “But God” moment. Yes; God is with us, He sees, and is listening.

Do we ever consider the consequences in grumbling? The author writes about the seriousness of grumbling, and includes 5 consequences that took place during Bible times and how it affected those involved. A definite eye-opening chapter. Instead of grumbling, the author shows readers more effective ways to turn situations around for the better.

The author asks a great question: Who’s the judge of mercy? A group of us volunteer with Under the Tent, a street outreach. Many have addictions and other life-controlling behaviors. Are these people judged? You bet, and sadly that includes Christians. As the author points out, God is kind and merciful, best leave any judgement to Him.

This author is real. In Courage instead of pity, she admitted to being overwhelmed at times. Said “yes” when she wanted to say “no”, then complained because she had too much to do. Readers are challenged to speak up for what is right. To have courage and stand firm even when it’s uncomfortable or dangerous. Is it easy? No, but with God all things are possible.

I love this book. My spiritual growth was elevated in ways I least expected it.
I agree with the author, “Excuses are easy to make.” And many of them are not valid; a choice is made not to do something. And letting go of self-pity leads to creativity. How remarkable is that? Two stories from the Bible are shared to prove this very point.

Spoiling people with your pity, is packed full of insight and wisdom. The author writes of the importance of being mindful when helping others, could it be enabling them instead? What are the consequences of allowing people to be overly dependent on others? The author emphasizes how encouragement can motivate people to do better. To guide them to trust God in their times of difficulties.

Who is invited to your pity party? Yes; I’ve had my share, and so have my friends. The author asks a series of questions to help the reader understand a better way to handle pity parties. One is never too old to learn!

What about having pity-party guilt? Times when people try to make us feel guilty when we can’t always fulfill their expectations. The author reminds readers that God doesn’t expect us to keep everyone else content. Other people’s pity parties are not our responsibility. The story of Mary and Martha from the Bible proves this very point. Hallelujah!

Longsuffering. The Bible includes longsuffering among the fruits of the Spirit named in Galatians 5:22-23, But what does it mean? The author gives a godly perspective on this particular fruit of the Spirit. And she does it well. Again, she encourages her readers to focus not on the test or trial, but on God. Does He have a greater purpose? The answer is yes, and time will reveal what it is.

Get Up, what a grand finale for this book. Yes, life does have a way of knocking us down but we can do what the author says: Get Up. She writes as someone who had to do just that, and she lovingly wants her readers to do the same. The love of God and His mercy flows throughout this whole book.

I highly recommend this book, especially for a small-group Bible study. Lives will be changed forever.

Book reviewed by
Anne-Marie Madore
Author, God Said, “I WILL” Promise Book
Website: anne-mariemadore.ca

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