Ruth Chou Simons is one of those Christian authors that I have so enjoyed over the years. Her years of ministry in a variety of roles, her commitment to her husband & sons, her creativity in adorning the Gospel with her art, her candid takes on life--her ministry has been a blessing to me. This book is no different. Ruth's encouragement to us as we are all in a "not yet" time of waiting. Whether it's waiting for the things we want or for Jesus to return, we all know the feeling of longing to see things come to their complete & desired end.

Incredibly practical, yet so full of grace, love and care. It’s gentle but firm. Encouraging but honest. I can tell the author walked the message she teaches. It’s personal but not overly so. It’s helpful in the right ways - going for your mind and not merely behavior modification. Love the scripture connections and the liturgies were one of my favorite parts of the book. They were relatable and just right for setting your mind on Christ in the different things the book talked about.
I really enjoyed this book and want to go back and read it again.
I received a digital copy from NetGalley. I was in no way required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Ruth Chou Simons has written another beautiful book. From the cover, to the ink on the pages, you're drawn in. I purchased and then read the book from cover to cover within one week . This is not a self-help book. Ruth points the reader directly to the word of God. She shows you from some of her own personal stories how to embrace where you are in life right now on the way to what's ahead of you in the future. Beautifully written! Well done and I'd recommend this book to friends and family.

"Now and Not Yet: Pressing in When You’re Waiting, Wanting, and Restless for More" by Ruth Chou Simons is a tender embrace for those navigating the ambiguous spaces of life. Simons, an award-winning Christian author renowned for her transparency and grace, delivers a poignant reminder that growth often unfolds slowly, yet purposefully.

In this illuminating book, Simons draws upon passages from the Bible to illuminate the beauty of trusting God amidst uncertainty. She artfully explores the universal experience of longing for something more while offering insights that resonate deeply with readers. Through her words, readers are gently guided to recognize that even in the midst of waiting and longing, God is at work, shaping our stories with divine purpose.

Simons invites readers to embrace the truth that our sustenance comes not from earthly comforts, but from the unwavering presence of God. She encourages us to resist the temptation to wish away our current circumstances, reminding us that God's providence is always purposeful, even in the deserts of life.

With wisdom and compassion, Simons reminds us that God often calls us to tasks that seem beyond our abilities, yet He equips us for the journey. Through heartfelt anecdotes and reflections, she underscores the importance of pressing into our present realities with faith and courage.

This book is not merely a read; it is an invitation to journey inward, to reflect on the whispers of God amidst the noise of life. It's a beacon of hope for those wrestling with feelings of restlessness and longing, offering solace in the assurance that God is with us every step of the way.

"Now and Not Yet" is a profound reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, we can find purpose and meaning by trusting in the constant presence of God. Simons' gentle guidance and unwavering faith make this book a compelling read for anyone navigating the complexities of waiting and longing. Whether for personal reflection or group study, this book is a gift of grace to those seeking solace in the midst of life's uncertainties.

Using scripture passages about Bible figures who were tested in their faith and patience, this book offers a reassuring reminder about taking advantage of what is given to each one of us and how God will use our unique talents for good. It's like a chat with a good friend that can take off our minds about about uncertainties and what is to come. The kind tone invites reflection with a leisurely paced vibe that will go well with a book like "Have A Beautiful, Terrible Day" by Kate Bowler. It may resonate with women more, but even male readers will feel heartened by the lessons, especially in the stories detailing the challenges of St. Paul.

I didn't know how much I needed this book before picking it up. I have been so encouraged by the truths held in these pages, and I highly recommend it for anyone who might be struggling in a hidden season.

Using her own experiences, and biblical examples the author guides the reader into paths of perseverance and acceptance when we feel restless and unfulfilled. It is our right now that matters most and we must live it to the best our ability, trusting that God is at work. Each chapter asks some pointed questions (you could journal these) and ends with a liturgy.

When walking through difficulties, she suggests:

!. Talk about it with a trusted friend

2. Feed on spiritually nourishing resources

3. Create rhythms that help you remember God –journaling, listening to music, daily prayer

4. Ask others to speak truth to you

At the end of the book, there are some ways to help you “flip the script” by reminding yourself of the things God has already done in your life. She also includes the theological basis for “now and not yet” with many encouraging references from Scripture.

This book was just what I needed to read right now in this season where things aren't going the way I planned. Ruth vulnerably shares her own authentic struggles like a trusted friend that is relatable and as one who has been through the trenches of motherhood, but still finds hope through it. She speaks to the struggles we have with delays, disappointments, failures, and unfulfilled dreams. Although I am not where I thought I would be, Ruth's book reminds me to view difficulties and closed doors as opportunities for learning and growth; perhaps it's a glimpse of God planting something new.

Ruth reminds readers that we can rest in Christ whatever circumstances we are in and that there is purpose in the pain. Even if we experience seasons where our work goes unnoticed or unappreciated, God still sees us in those hidden places. Ruth writes, "God is at work in our obscurity even as he is at work in our visibility." She encourages us to keep sowing seeds that build godly character.

I love this quote from Ruth for those times when we feel like we're in a dry season: "God allows us to feel barren desperation in the desert so that we might run to the oasis of his provision."

I like how Ruth's signature style of beautiful line-drawn flowers and hand-lettered inspirational quotes are interspersed throughout the chapters that helped me remember the key points. The liturgy and prayers at the close of each chapter encourage the reader to trust in God's sufficiency and ability to provide when we feel weak and anxious about the future.

If you're feeling frustrated or doubtful in your current circumstances, I recommend reading this book that will remind you of the truth of God's faithfulness that will give you strength to face the next step in your journey.

I want to thank the publisher for an advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I had never read a book by @Ruth Chou Simons until this one and WOW WOW WOW.

Her writing style is impeccable, so conversational, she seamlessly blends in personal testimony with keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and The Gospel.

This book is full of so much wisdom and encouragement. If you are in a season of waiting, struggling with contentment and often find yourself questioning your current season, read this book. It is such a refreshing read and the cover is GORGEOUS

Each chapter ends with a liturgical prayer of encouragement and there are questions throughout for personal reflection.

This was my first book read by Ruth Chou Simons and I found nothing lacking. I can't imagine the time and thought that has went into this book.. My takeaways is sometimes the waiting season, the journey if you will, is much more than the destination. Being content in the waiting. That is what shapes and molds us and who we become by leaning in to the uncertain times or the time we're confused and feel we lack direction. God is working on that in the now moments and even when we're waiting on a yes, and God says no. Very profound writings. As others I've heard it said, Ruth is a wordsmith. The liturgies at the end of each chapter is poetic and genuine. When you read this book, let the words soak in because I believe that is how they were written and meant to be read. I highlighted so much in this book and look forward to rereading this one again.

Many of us find ourselves lingering in the "not yet." Professions, ministry, life circumstances,... we have a vision for our futures that is "right there" and yet, we can't quite reach it. What do we do with our present circumstances when they don't align with where we want to be? How can we embrace the now in the waiting for more?

Author Ruth Cho Simons shares some encouraging truths about living in the present moment when our hearts long for more. It's okay to not like the now. It's okay to admit that life is hard and takes us through challenging situations. But the Lord can still use these hard circumstances for his glory, if we allow him. Simons shares real principles learned through her own life and how she balanced the tension of these two realities. Now and Not Yet is not just a fluffy, feel good book filled with cliches. Rather, it is an honest look into how to move forward when life isn't all it's meant to be. I didn't come into this book with a lot of expectations, but was genuinely surprised by how relevant it is. This is probably the most real, and still encouraging, book I've read on the subject. Ruth Cho Simons writes as one who has lived the struggle and can still see God's constant presence in her circumstances. This book was a HUGE encouragment in my life and I hope it will be in yours as well.

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

"We are made by God, for God and to be satisfied in God."

"...here's the paradigm shift that will transform our restlessness and unsatisfied right now: feeling restless and unsatisfied is exactly where we need to be in order for God to shape us where He wants us to go."

Ruth Chou Simons is one of my favorite Christian Living authors. Not only does she have the beautiful spiritual gift of encouragement through heavy topics, her artwork on the pages are so aesthetically pleasing. I started this book thinking I've come pretty far with living a contented life after decades of feeling nothing but discontent but man, does she have a way with words to show you how to press in even further. I had so many emotions as I read this book and that isn't a bad thing. This book made me think and pray deeply about my own current Now and Not Yet season which allowed me to see the beauty in all of the seasons God allows. We may never truly be who we want or thought we would be...and that is OK because our God has a purpose for us in our present, right-now life.

Ruth points us back to scripture time and again and her liturgies at the close of each chapter are beautifully written. I will be praying them again and again.

Thank you to the publisher and author for allowing me on their launch team to be able to get an eARC to preread the book before today. I received my hardcopy today and can't wait to start it all over again. This is one to read and share with the women in your life no matter what stage of life they are in.

This is my second book read by this author. The first one was “Foundations” and is still the favourite.
This book is bible grounded, full of biblical exemples and a lot of wow moments. Still, it felt like a cozy discussion at a cup of coffee with the author.
You can’t go wrong with Ruth Chou Simons!

The book is well-written with Biblical/scriptural references and Simons draws on both spiritual foundations and her own experiences to offer advice and comfort. Personally, I felt the book did not necessarily add anything new to the non-fiction Christian genre of similar books about waiting or struggles, but I have no doubt that many readers will enjoy and find value in the work nonetheless. While it is Christian based, readers of various faith backgrounds may appreciate Simons' insights into being content in the present.

Love this book so much! Grateful for the reminders and the truth in this book!! Looking forward to new releases from this author!

When you read "Now and Not Yet" you're going to think "That's me! How did she know?" You will want to grab a journal and write to get everything you can from this book! Write your prayers, copy many great quotes, answer the deep questions asked of us.

This book is "hard work," not just fluff, but oh so worth it. It's full of scripture and encouragement and calls us to contentment. There's a liturgy at the end of each chapter that I enjoyed and even copied a few in my journal.

One of my favorite short quotes: "We are made by God, for God, and to be satisfied in God."

I highly recommend this book!

This book is so timely and full of grace and wisdom. At a time when my dreams for the future seem starkly different from my current reality, this book gives lasting and real hope. It is full of encouragement, truth, tenderness, and peace, peppered with stories that bring the truths to life. If you have ever found yourself frustrated with your daily life, or concerned about the world around you, or just disenchanted with the way things are, this book has some good words for you, with some beautiful pictures sprinkled in.

Here is another incredible book by Ruth Chou Simons. She is honest with her audience and continues to impress upon them the importance of fixing their gaze on Jesus. The tension of now and not yet is something I believe many Christians battle with. Not only is the book devotional, but Simons adds practical questions and steps for each chapter. The liturgies at the end of each chapter help the reader to meditate further on the truth she writes. This was a fantastic and encouraging read.

Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for the advanced copy. I greatly appreciate it.

This is a book I needed to read at a time in my life where I felt stuck and needed a strong reminder of faith. Ruth Chou Simons does an excellent job of telling her personal stories and tying them to scripture. Her stories are relatable and encouraging, and no matter the challenges someone is facing, there is a chapter that can resonate for anyone. I especially enjoyed the prayers at the end of each chapter, along with her signature style writing highlighting a reminder from the chapter.

Ruth does it again. She's written a book that I didn't know my heart needed. It's been a hard year for our family, with big changes and feeling like we aren't where we want to be. I thought I had moved on, processed it all, but here I am, sobbing into the pages of this book, praising God for all that he has done, will do, and for how gracious He is. I seriously cannot recommend this book enough.