The concept of this book is great. However, I had a few issues with the execution. Before I get into the drawbacks of this title, I want to first say that I love Ruth Chou Simons, Jennie Allen & If: Gathering. I heard her message a few years ago and strongly enjoy her speaking. That being said, a few things stuck out to me when reading this book. The first glaring issue I had with it was the formatting. It was improperly formatted for kindle readers and while I was able to read through, it was extremely distracting. The tables were not formatted as tables and it was scattered. It did not seem to line up correctly 100% of the time. While the book was down to earth & relatable with wonderful stories which were definitely a plus, the message could've been condensed down to 1 chapter. It lost impact because of being lengthened. Overall, I wish there had been more revision and editing but it was still an enjoyable read.

We all live in the tension of now and not yet, between what is and what is to come. Ruth, in her gentle and encouraging way, gives us great advice on how to make the most of this place. Practical and beautiful, scripturally sound, easy to read but so much to think about — it is a great read.

Now and Not Yet is the latest from Ruth Chou Simons. I was introduced to Ruth’s writing with her Bible Study, “When Strivings Cease.” Every study I read from Ruth, God does a deep work in me and “Now and Not Yet” is no different coming in with another on time, much needed word. This is an amazing “real” Bible Study for this time.

I received an advanced readers copy from Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. Opinions are my own.

Ruth Chou Simons is an award-winning Christian author and founder of the company GraceLaced. Her newest book is entitled, "Now and Not Yet: Pressing in When You’re Waiting, Wanting, and Restless for More." The title caught my attention because I am living in a sort of waiting period (as is true of many others). Simons uses her trademark transparency and gentleness to remind her readers that "slow growth is still growth" and "you don't have to be blooming to be growing." She asserts that "if only I knew what God was doing in my present reality, perhaps then I could really enjoy where I'm at because I'd know how my story will make sense in the end." In this book, we're reminded that we're rarely called to do something we feel like we'd be good at, but rather, God delights to call us to accomplish tasks that are too hard for us. He will enable us when He calls us.

This book was an encouraging and convicting read, and will be a blessing to anyone who feels that they are in a waiting period in their own lives. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

Ruth Chou Simons thoughtfully examines what it is like when we are restless in our situations. How should we approach them? And what should we do? How does God feel about it?

Simons draws from Scripture to show us how God has us exactly where we need to be and where He wants to move most. She challenges us to take the time to talk and listen to him.

Now and Not Yet challenges you to think outside of what you can see and turn to the One who can fill us.

Thank you NetGalley and Nelson Books for the ARC.