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Incurable Faith

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Written openly and honestly, Incurable Faith is a book to be re-read time and again. You can read it at your pace and the devotionals in any order.

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As someone who has recently in the past year, stepped back into the church, this book has been my go to read book. I feel like there are a lot of things in my life that are incurable but my faith is. I learned that many people don't think that their faith is curable but it is. My faith was lost for a long time due to something that happened in my church but I have found my love for faith again. If you ever think that you're faith isn't there anymore, read this book. It is definitely a keeper for me!

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Incurable Faith: 120 Devotions of Lasting Hope for Lingering Health Issues by Andrea Herzer is a must have devotional for anyone who is living with health issues or knows someone who is. The author has used her personal walk with a chronic illness to write this uplifting book. The devotions are divided into three sections that vary in length and message. The devotions have a bible verse, the author's writing, a prayer, a portion to embrace, practice, or ponder and worship song suggestions. The author also includes some personal entries from her private journal. The book also contains scriptures divided according to different situations such as needing strength and over coming worry.

This is a wonderful book filled with inspirational messages of hope and encouragement. It reaffirms the importance of prayer, faith and trust in God during an illness. While this book is a personal devotion for the health illness sufferer, this could also be a great tool to use for a support group or bible study. This book would be a great tool to use to visit with the ill person when words cannot be found. It gives an easy way for the person to speak of their illness without appearing to complain.

I voluntarily received a copy of this book through the Incurable Faith Launch team. This is my honest review.

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There are not many devotional books dedicated towards people with chronic health issues. This one was a nice surprise when I found it. I have really enjoyed reading each day’s devotion and allowing them to grow me closer to God. I have really felt God’s presence and live in this devotion.

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Few people truly understand what it's like to live with a chronic illness, but Herzer does. As a result, this book is very relatable. And this book is a reminder not to stay stuck in the struggles, but to cling to faith. The author provides 120 ways to do this. Anyone could benefit from the encouraging devotions in this book. The devotions are divided into three sections, based on the length and depth of the message. There's also a topical index.

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If I take nothing else from Incurable Faith by Andrea Herzer, it will be this concept: I have Jesus. Yes, I have Lyme Disease, but I have Jesus. Yes, I have all sorts of things that are messed up in nearly every system of my body thanks to the seven years it took me to be diagnosed, but I have Jesus. As Herzer put it in one of the devotions included in this fabulously encouraging book, “My disease stays in the proper place when I put my trust in Jesus.”

And if I had to give this devotional resource a defining statement, that would be it. Through Herzer’s open and honest glimpse into her life with chronic pain and cancer, she reminds fellow spoonies that we are held – always – in the arms of Jesus. Everything in these pages points back to Him and the HOPE we have because we are His.

“You can move forward during a health setback because you have sure hope that is not bound by circumstance, strength that is stronger than you feel, and patient endurance to bear absolutely anything that comes your way.”

At the same time, she acknowledges what life is like with chronic illness/pain and encourages readers to be honest, too. We can tell right away that the author ‘gets us’ even just from something as simple as how the devotions are organized: because she understands how treatment, side effects, and the illness itself affects concentration and brain power, the devotions in Incurable Faith are organized by length – ‘a satisfying snack’ section of shorter readings for those days when focus is impaired, and ‘a marvelous meal’ or ‘a fabulous feast’ sections for the days when you feel well enough to sit a while with the Word. From admitting to God that we are weary or discouraged to acknowledging that we are homesick for the life we used to live and grieving the things that illness and pain have taken from us, the author knows what we are going through and she is living it with us. But she doesn’t let us – or herself – stay there in the negative space that so easily comes along hand-in-hand with always being sick or in pain. Time after time, she gently teaches us how to refocus our thoughts, reset our hearts, and reframe our illness as a child of God.

Bottom Line: I’ve been looking for a while now for a devotional that meets me where I’m at in my chronic pain/illness, written by someone who understands and makes formatting accommodations that other authors might not think of, but also one that challenges me to get out of my pity party and keep my eyes on Jesus. Incurable Faith by Andrea Herzer is exactly what I’ve wanted, and I’ll be adding a hardcover copy to my own collection as well as keeping it mind for gifts for fellow spoonies. The author spoke to my pain, my exhaustion, my self-frustration, and my discouragement… but even more importantly she reminded me that I don’t fight alone and to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus. I loved the playlist she links to in the introduction, as well as the specific song recommendations for each day’s devotion. Herzer not only encourages us in our faith, she also gives us the tools to fill our lives with hope.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

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Incurable Faith is an incredible devotional, especially for someone experiencing health challenges. (Or knows someone who is.) But anyone who reads this book in search of hope, faith, and strength will no doubt find it. We can find comfort through hope, and that is what the Lord offers us for free.

I like that the reader is prompted to read this book with a personal preference. The book is divided in three sections. Section one is a wonderful resource for brief inspirational messages. Section two offers a more profound devotion. Section three is if you’d like to dig deeper. There is also a topical index if you’re searching for a particular focus.

With personal stories, scripture verses, prayers, and more, this devotional adds so much to your quiet time with the Lord, uplifting, inspiring, and feeding you with encouragement from spiritual truths.

First Line: No doctor ever proclaimed, “You have cancer,” when I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Genre: Devotional, non-fiction
Author: Andrea Herzer
Page Count: 305

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

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I highly recommend this beautiful devotional and here’s why: first of all, the author is very insightful regarding health issues as well as matters of faith. She includes powerful prayers and I enjoyed listening to the recommended songs accompanying every devotional. I very much appreciated the three different lengths of thought provoking devotions included. Based on time and energy available, I was able to choose a reading that was manageable. I also liked that no dates were included. I felt free to turn to any title that caught my attention and no discouragement or need to catch up for falling behind. This book would make a great gift for a caregiver as well as anyone dealing with health issues. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions were my own.

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I've enjoyed reading this book. From my own minor health issues to my daughter recently diagnosed with MS, this book was a sources of encouragement for me. While it obviously didn't cure me, it sure lightened my heart. Some days I want to look at the "what I can't do" instead of leaning into the "yes, but look what I can still do."

I recommend this book for yourself if you are going through lingering health issues or for sure to purchase and give to a friend who could stand to see some hope in the issues they face with a chronic illness.

Disclaimer: I've received a digital copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah with no expectation in return. The comments and opinions above are mine and I voluntarily have shared them.

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Andrea is a breath of fresh air. Her countenance radiates the love of God & she’s poured it into this Devotional book. Andrea herself is an inspiration & this book is so uplifting. It’s a go to devotional, especially on dark & difficult days. It’s sectioned into three. Each section has a Scripture reading; a devotion to help you through life with health issues; a Prayer; a Truth to Embrace, a concise bite to ponder on during your day; and a Worship Song, look them up & sing along, it will lift your spirits.
Section 1: A Satisfying Snack, easily read in 2-3 minutes as only 1-2 pages. Perfect for days of little concentration. There’s so much packed into those ‘bites’, you will be nourished.
Section 2: A Marvellous Meal, 2-3 pages for when you are ready for more, & are able to focus for longer. And this section (& Section 3) has a Practice or a Ponder for each devotion. Something more to think about, or action to take, like read a Psalm out loud.
Section 3: A Fabulous Feast, are longer devotionals of a stand alone chapter each, for when you are able to delve deeper & spend more time with God.
There is a very helpful resources section. The Topical Index helps you find a devotion according to your particular need at that time.
May God bless you as you read this devotional.
This book should definitely be beside the bed of everyone going through life with debilitating health issues. Thank you Andrea. You truly are a blessing to many.

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Encouraging Hope
Andrea Herzer shares her personal journey through health issues, chronic pain and how the Lord has been her constant source of hope and comfort throughout. This is an amazing devotional that encourages me each time I pick it up. She gets it and understands serious and debilitating health struggles.
Whether it is pain, cancer or your spiritual tank is just running low, this devotional will lift you up and remind you to thrive and choose joy! Her extensive knowledge of scripture together with words from personal experience make a beautiful devotional that has blessed my life.
The format is great! Along with relevant scripture, Andrea offers a prayer with each devotional for those days when I do not have the energy to put my own words together. If you journal there are ideas to ponder and a worship song to encourage praise. I would recommend Incurable Faith to anyone needing help or hope during a difficult season.

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Andrea Herzer invites readers with chronic pain to share her Incurable Faith. Her devotional book takes us to God’s rich table by dividing content into snacks, meals and feasts. We learn to live fully through affliction. We pray to gain strength and wisdom. We worship to give thanks for God’s plan in our lives. There’s even a Spotify playlist matching worship songs to each devotion. It’s a great choice for all who suffer or who love someone who is suffering.

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Inspirational devotions. With prayers, song recommendations and heartfelt personal stories, this is a great book to give as a gift and to refer to often. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.

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"Incurable Faith" by Andrea Herzer is a profoundly inspiring and uplifting memoir that delves into the depths of the human spirit and the power of unwavering faith. This beautifully written book takes readers on a journey through the author's personal experiences, offering a unique perspective on life, love, and the pursuit of hope.

Herzer's memoir is centered around her own battle with a chronic illness, sharing her struggles, triumphs, and the profound impact her faith has had on her life. From the very first page, it becomes evident that this is not just a story of physical pain and suffering, but rather a testament to the resilience of the human spirit when faced with overwhelming adversity.

One of the most striking aspects of "Incurable Faith" is the author's remarkable ability to convey her emotions and experiences with such clarity and authenticity. Herzer's writing is raw and honest, allowing readers to connect deeply with her journey. The book is filled with poignant moments, heart-wrenching setbacks, and ultimately, a celebration of the human spirit's indomitable nature.

What sets this memoir apart is Herzer's unwavering faith, which shines through every chapter. Her deep-rooted spirituality provides a guiding light amidst the darkness, offering solace and strength in the face of unimaginable challenges. Through her words, readers are reminded of the power of faith and the transformative impact it can have on one's life.

Moreover, the book goes beyond the author's personal story. It explores universal themes of hope, resilience, and the importance of finding purpose in the midst of adversity. Herzer's narrative beautifully weaves together her personal experiences with thoughtful reflections, making "Incurable Faith" a truly enriching read.

In terms of writing style, Herzer's prose flows effortlessly, capturing the reader's attention from beginning to end. The pacing is well-balanced, and each chapter offers a new revelation or insight, keeping the reader engaged throughout. The book's organization is also commendable, as it smoothly transitions between the author's personal journey and the broader themes she explores.

"Incurable Faith" is an emotionally charged memoir that will leave readers deeply moved and inspired. Andrea Herzer's story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the face of the most daunting challenges, faith and resilience can lead us to a life of purpose and fulfillment. This book is a testament to the power of the human spirit and is highly recommended to anyone seeking inspiration, encouragement, or a renewed sense of faith in the face of adversity.

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Have either the symptoms or treatment for a chronic illness left you unable to attend church? Let Incurable Faith by Andrea Herzer provide help as opening the pages is like entering church. There are 120 devotionals that each contain a prayer leading you to a discussion with the Lord about the journey with your own illness. You can enjoy fellowship by reading the scripture inspired personal accounts of Andrea's journey with her own illness. An embraceable lesson provides a take-away to think about after you close the book. Suggestions for a specific worship song bring the opportunity to both offer praise and receive peace as you meditate on the lesson.
Andrea helps remind us that the best ally you could ask for is right by your side as you travel through your health journey.

Thank you NetGalley and WaterBrook & Multnomah for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
#incurableFaith #NetGalley #waterbook #multnomah #andreaherzer #christian #devotional

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Excellent devotional book for those either going through a chronic and/or disabling disease themselves or those caring for someone who is. Ms. Herzer knows what a struggle these situations are, and how they can test your faith. With insight and personal reflections, she brings Scripture, prayers, and worship songs into play. I especially appreciate the 3 types of devotionals, short, mid-length, and longer, depending on one’s momentary and daily ability to focus. The resource section at the end also is very helpful.

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"You have cancer!" These three words can easily strike fear even for the most stoic minds. How does one deal with bad news? What if the prognosis is mostly negative? How then do we bear living in an increasingly unbearable situation? Like in a dark and gloomy tunnel, life through chronic illness can be downright depressing. In times like these, hope becomes that crucial light at the end of the long tunnel. One of the ways to remind us of hope in Jesus is through devotionals. Here, author Andrea Herzer gives us 120 devotionals to guide us through hardships any of us might encounter from time to time. These devotionals are conveniently categorized according to length. Section One is "snack size" meaning the devotional is about 1-2 pages long. Intended for people who might not be able to sustain a longer read, they are given in bit-size format for ease of reading and reference. The introductory passage, prayer, and invitation to worship are brief and to the point. Section Two is a little more substantial called "A Marvelous Meal." The passages are slightly longer, about 2-3 pages in length. This allows readers who have the energy to read a longer passage to do so. It gives us more time and space to reflect on the passages read. Section Three contains devotionals that are the most dense of all. It is written particularly for the lonely in mind. It is also suitable for those who want a longer quiet time.

Every devotional begins with a Bible passage followed by a short illustration or story. Many of these stories are personal in nature, showing readers that the author has first-hand experience of what it means to struggle with illness. Beginning with a startling diagnosis of lymphoma, she shares her own stories on how this illness has impacted not just her health but also her family, relationships, and especially her spiritual thoughts throughout life. Those experiencing illnesses will probably identify with her experiences as the devotionals are written from the angle of someone struggling with faith in the midst of debilitating health issues. The sharing presents us with some of the challenges she faced while the prayers represent her desire to let faith overcome any lingering fears that might lurk in the crevices of each day's challenges. The "Embrace" is a desire to let go of one's fears and the "Worship" is a time to let God do His work.

My Thoughts
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It takes one to know one. Having a book written by an expert in the field is one thing. Having one who had personally gone through the actual struggles is something else. The main point of this book is that we should not let the pain wallow us down. Even in the worst of times, hope brings out the best of us. Herzer shows us 120 ways to do just that. Each devotional helps us identify with but not dwell in the struggles. This is an important point. The key to hope is perseverance. Each time we fall, we need to get back up. As long as the number of times we get back up exceeds the times we fall, we have hope. The author supplies 120 ways for us to get back up.

The second thing to note is where we get the inspiration from. The Word of God is key to recovery. Like the apostle Paul who said that he will not let troubles get him down, his inner strength comes from God. In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul courageously declares that nothing could hold him back from the hope he has in Jesus. This key point can also be seen in these devotionals. Whether it is a snack-size or a feast-like devotional, they all point to the Source of Strength and Giver of Hope. Readers should be mindful that while the struggles of life are gloomy, the reality of God's Hope is far brighter. This is one of the biggest reasons to get this devotional.

Finally, I want to say something about the title. Incurable diseases can be depressing. With the recent global pandemic, many of us have been impacted by tragedies around the world. Some even suffer from long-term effects of covid. Apart from health matters, mental health challenges continue to grow. I hear news agencies talking about mental health issues almost on a daily basis. That is where the beauty of the title comes in. Do not let diseases or all kinds of terminal illnesses bog us down. Incurable Faith is far greater than incurable diseases. That is the essence of hope.

One does not need to be physically ill or mentally challenged in order to benefit from this book. If anyone tells us that this world is a mess, we would probably nod our heads. Coupled with mental health issues, this can be excruciating, even unbearable. For readers struggling with such challenges, this book will offer welcome relief and needed encouragement. For those who are currently not experiencing any major issues, this book provides fodder for empathy and understanding.

Andrea Herzer is intimately acquainted with the hardships that accompany debilitating health issues, having spent the last twenty years with multiple illnesses, including complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Andrea’s compassionate writing helps others discover the riches of God’s sustaining love amid pain and suffering. You can find her work on iBelieve, Crosswalk, and OnePlace. Andrea lives in Texas with her husband, Mark. They have three grown children.

Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.

conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Waterbrook & Multnomah Publishers via NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

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