Living the Questions: Making Sense of the Mess and Mystery of Life

by Carolyn Arends

Striking a chord that resonates with anyone who has asked the "whys" and "what ifs" of faith, Carolyn Arends shares portions of her life and walk that offer insights into why God weaves His way into the mundane moments of our lives. Carolyn shares the raw truth about a desperate summer when she didn't feel God's presence, a terrifying moment of teenage enlightenment, and the sense of God's majesty she felt at her first glimpse of the red canyons of Utah.Evocative writing and vulnerable honesty will delight readers who want to discover how God works in their lives and make sense of the puzzle called life. They will find a kindred spirit in Carolyn and a soul-gratifying read.

240 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2000

About the author

Carolyn Arends is known for messages, books, and songs that stir the soul, and a warm, engaging style that leaves her audiences feeling like they've found a new best friend.

She has released 12 albums and is the author of 3 critically-acclaimed books, as well as long-standing columns for Christianity Today and Faith Today. 15 of Arends songs have become top 10 radio singles on the Canadian pop and US Christian charts. Arends has earned 2 Dove Awards, 3 Juno Nominations, and was recognized as the West Coast Music Awards Songwriter of the Year. Her prose has been recognized by the Evangelical Press Association, The Word Guild, and The Canadian Church Press Association.

Carolyn is the Director of Education for Renovaré, and an adjunct professor at the college and graduate level. She has a degree in Psychology and English from Trinity Western University, and a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Regent College. She lives in Surrey, BC with her husband, Mark, and their young adult children, Benjamin and Bethany

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with her songs, Carolyn is open and straightforward in her book. She talks about her life and spiritual journey, and somehow she brings the reader back to the core of life—the things that refresh, fulfill, and infuse meaning into our lives. There are moments of spiritual distress and moments of bittersweet beauty. There are moments of peaceful confidence and moments of confusion and sorrow. My life can easily become a whirlwind of activity, so I very frequently need to be brought back to the reality of such moments, and will be reading this book again.

[Shelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christian book. OK

[Debbie Oliver · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this the first time 20 years ago...still an inspirational read by an amazing writer and singer/songwriter

Read it again in July 2024….still a great read.

[Cynthia Eason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Resonates with my soul. Excellently written.