10/26/2020
Reframing the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, Armstrong (No More Holding Back), cofounder of Polished Ministries, provides useful insight for Christian women who feel stuck in feelings of hopelessness. She explains that “in-between places,” such as going through grief, loss, burnout, divorce, or even a pandemic, can serve as a catalyst for living a more purposeful, God-driven life. Armstrong balances humorous reflections with life lessons learned through hardship (such as learning to accept initially unfulfilling work while working for a campus laundry service), cites biblical examples of failures that ended up being blessings (as how Miriam’s exile in Egypt allowed her the confidence to “boldly lead the nation of Israel in worship”), and shares scriptural stories of redemption featuring Deborah, Martha of Bethany, Mary Magdalene, and the woman at the well. Readers will appreciate Armstrong’s refreshing tone, whether she is unapologetically confessing her fondness for Hallmark movies, comparing a job interview to a Forrest Gump Ping-Pong match, or laughing in hindsight after a parasite-induced illness: “Even crappy places can be redeemed.” Lysa TerKeurst fans will want to take a look. (Dec.)
