If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat

Singer, speaker and author Walsh (Stories from the River of Mercy) tenderly gives voice to the unspeakable fears and sorrows that consume even the most stalwart Christians. Walsh advocates bravely confronting the demons of the unknown by opposing fears with faith in the unchanging, dependable character of a God who promises to meet every need. In the midst of fearful emotional and mental wandering, Walsh asserts, searching for reasons for life's tragedies can only compound one's miseries. She suggests a different track for achieving and maintaining courageous peace, by honestly exposing innate human frailties. Then, she says, Christians can surrender to God's plan as the jumping-off place to genuine fearless living. This book's titular premise to live fearlessly is discussed through three converging paths: truth-telling, fear-facing and soulful peace gained by relinquishment. Walsh challenges readers to let go of the illusion of control, embracing God's wisdom through uncertainty and finding freedom in a plan beyond understanding. Through her speaking role with the Women of Faith conferences, Walsh has conversed with many women who have suffered deep pain, and she skillfully recounts their poignant stories of freedom from fear. Walsh says that such stories challenge her to live life with a similar bold trust in God's sovereignty and provision. The author's generous and humorous personal experiences bring balance to an otherwise heavy subject. Walsh's call to a faith-based journey toward courage will inspire Christians to free themselves from fear. (Jan.)