The Cure for the Chronic Life: Overcoming the Hopelessness that Holds You Back

Favre (Don't Bet Against Me), an NFL wife and cancer survivor, and hemophiliac pastor Stanford (A Positive Life) share their experiences addressing "chronic" conditions, both physical and emotional, that impede faithful living. Asserting that "God wants us to run, not limp, to jump, not hobble into His grace," the authors invite readers to believe that inhibited lives may be transformed through committed spiritual practice, such as their treatment plan for healing. Intending the book to be read over a 40-day period, the authors offer guidance, Bible study, and encouragement. Four 10-day sections, based on the principles of Compassion, Understanding, Response, and Encouragement (CURE), each divide into four subsections: Discover, in which the authors take turns providing personal illustrations; Deepen, which invites reflection on a wide range of scriptural texts; Deploy, which offers suggestions for journaling or other concrete actions; and Discern, which provides a closing prayer. Both authors relate their personal struggles with health, marital fidelity, and vocation in a sensitive, respectful manner that invites similarly honest reflection. Readers seeking guided spiritual direction may find this personable book a welcome resource. (Oct.)