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Hunting Hope: Dig Through the Darkness to Find the Light
When you can’t see any hope in a season of difficulty, hunt for it by holding onto God’s character and letting Him develop your own.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published April 19, 2016
9 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Nika Maples
10 books168 followersNika Maples, a native Texan, never thought she would become a teacher. By her sophomore year in college everything changed …
In 1994, a lupus-induced stroke left Nika quadriplegic. She could not speak, swallow, or blink. In intensive care, she listened as physicians warned her family that she had as little as 48 hours to live. If she lived at all, they said, she could be expected to remain unresponsive. She had lost all functionality and had no hope of recovery, so doctors suggested an assisted living facility as the only option for Nika’s future. When she could do nothing else, she prayed. Her faith sustained her, and she walked back onto her college campus on her own two feet. The lessons she learned from quadriplegia will always be a part of her heart.
A stark reality became clearer to her by the day: Life is brief and brilliant. Whatever we choose to do with our handful of moments on earth, it is critical that we make those moments significant by serving others. She could think of no better way to serve than to educate and encourage young people.
After she had taught in a public high school only four years, the Texas Education Agency honored Nika by naming her 2007 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. Currently, she shares her message of hope and endurance with education, business, and church groups, while continuing to teach language arts and social studies to 5th grade students in Keller, Texas. Audiences respond to her humorous and heartfelt stories with warmth and enthusiasm. Almost everyone walks away with a renewed sense of purpose.
Nika holds a BS in mass communications from Texas Wesleyan University and an MA in English education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Her teaching philosophy is simple. Teachers, as academic physicians, must not remove “educational life support” from any student, no matter how seemingly hopeless the situation.
It is never too late to learn and it is never too late to teach.
In 1994, a lupus-induced stroke left Nika quadriplegic. She could not speak, swallow, or blink. In intensive care, she listened as physicians warned her family that she had as little as 48 hours to live. If she lived at all, they said, she could be expected to remain unresponsive. She had lost all functionality and had no hope of recovery, so doctors suggested an assisted living facility as the only option for Nika’s future. When she could do nothing else, she prayed. Her faith sustained her, and she walked back onto her college campus on her own two feet. The lessons she learned from quadriplegia will always be a part of her heart.
A stark reality became clearer to her by the day: Life is brief and brilliant. Whatever we choose to do with our handful of moments on earth, it is critical that we make those moments significant by serving others. She could think of no better way to serve than to educate and encourage young people.
After she had taught in a public high school only four years, the Texas Education Agency honored Nika by naming her 2007 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. Currently, she shares her message of hope and endurance with education, business, and church groups, while continuing to teach language arts and social studies to 5th grade students in Keller, Texas. Audiences respond to her humorous and heartfelt stories with warmth and enthusiasm. Almost everyone walks away with a renewed sense of purpose.
Nika holds a BS in mass communications from Texas Wesleyan University and an MA in English education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Her teaching philosophy is simple. Teachers, as academic physicians, must not remove “educational life support” from any student, no matter how seemingly hopeless the situation.
It is never too late to learn and it is never too late to teach.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
March 7, 2016
I must say I like this book. If I am the one who wrote it, am I allowed to say that? It took me almost three years to finish. It makes me smile to think of that because it felt like the writing of it would never end. But God is faithful to complete what He starts. That's the message of this whole book anyway.
July 4, 2016
Hunting Hope is based on the premise that when you find yourself in the situational darkness, you should become a hope Hunter. Using Obedience through prayer and fasting as examples to find God's way in the darkness, Maples cites scripture and Personal anecdotes as well as bible stories to showcase her title of Hunting Hope. Her book is thoughtful and inspiring and gave me much to think about following each chapter. Maples was diagnosed with lupus as a child and had a stroke at the age of twenty so she has experienced this hope hunting she reviews here. I felt inspired and uplifted for reading it as well as connected to the Author.
Provided by LitFuse Publicity and Publisher
Provided by LitFuse Publicity and Publisher
April 3, 2016
Have you ever read a book and felt like it was written just for you? That the author must have been spying on your life? Well, that's what I felt as I read Nika Maples' beautiful book, Hunting Hope.
Nika uses the metaphor of winter to describe those difficult seasons of life that leave us chilled to the soul. I'm in one of those shivery seasons, and Hunting Hope was like a friend showing up with a soft, warm blanket.
Sharing her personal experiences of "winter", Nika shares practical ways to hunt for hope in the darkness. She challenges us that we can either waste our winters by wallowing in despair or we can let the darkn times draw near to God, our source of light and hope. God is able to use even the worst circumstances for our good.
Be encouraged by these words from the book: "Do not let yourself be defined by one suffering season for the rest of your life. ... Your identity is bigger than the facts of your life. You don't have to act like winter takes all. You are not winter. And winter is not your only season. Joy will give you the strength to walk out of it."
When you're in the middle of a long winter season, it's easy to forget there are other seasons to look forward to. God used Hunting Hope to lift my eyes to the horizon. I see signs of spring!
Nika uses the metaphor of winter to describe those difficult seasons of life that leave us chilled to the soul. I'm in one of those shivery seasons, and Hunting Hope was like a friend showing up with a soft, warm blanket.
Sharing her personal experiences of "winter", Nika shares practical ways to hunt for hope in the darkness. She challenges us that we can either waste our winters by wallowing in despair or we can let the darkn times draw near to God, our source of light and hope. God is able to use even the worst circumstances for our good.
Be encouraged by these words from the book: "Do not let yourself be defined by one suffering season for the rest of your life. ... Your identity is bigger than the facts of your life. You don't have to act like winter takes all. You are not winter. And winter is not your only season. Joy will give you the strength to walk out of it."
When you're in the middle of a long winter season, it's easy to forget there are other seasons to look forward to. God used Hunting Hope to lift my eyes to the horizon. I see signs of spring!
February 3, 2016
Everyone is familiar with struggles. It does not matter if we are talking about stress, a chronic illness, or whatever thing is one is unergoing this book comes incredibly helpful. A must have, completely love it.
I recived a copy from netgalley for my honest review. This in no way does affect my personal view on the title.
I recived a copy from netgalley for my honest review. This in no way does affect my personal view on the title.
January 14, 2019
When I got this book from the publisher to review, I didn't know how good it would be! The cover design, although interesting, doesn't reflect how real and life-changing the text of the book is!
To begin, I must point out that this book is not Nika Maples' autobiography as I expected. However, it will not disappoint and is definitely worth reading whether or not you have read her previous book describing her difficult time with lupus and then a massive stroke at age 20! In fact, after reading Hunting Hope, you, like me will feel more inclined to check out Nika's first book which explains everything she's been through.
Hunting Hope really is one of the best books I've ever read on this topic. Ms. Maples writes with clarity and wisdom, keeping everything in balance. It's hard to explain, the excitement and awe I feel when I come across books like this. I felt like Nika really speaks to my heart; convicting me even while understanding what I'm going through! She has a deep faith in the Lord and makes sure she honours and glorifies God throughout her book.
One aspect which I loved and didn't expect of this book is Nika's journey towards understanding her singleness; this really spoke to me since I, like Nika wanted to be married and have a family and, like Nika never got to! Her journey to understanding God's will for her life was wonderful and reminded me that I do have a lot even without my biggest dream.
Of course, even if you are married, this book will still change your life. Read it! And I assure you, I don't say that about every book I read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
To begin, I must point out that this book is not Nika Maples' autobiography as I expected. However, it will not disappoint and is definitely worth reading whether or not you have read her previous book describing her difficult time with lupus and then a massive stroke at age 20! In fact, after reading Hunting Hope, you, like me will feel more inclined to check out Nika's first book which explains everything she's been through.
Hunting Hope really is one of the best books I've ever read on this topic. Ms. Maples writes with clarity and wisdom, keeping everything in balance. It's hard to explain, the excitement and awe I feel when I come across books like this. I felt like Nika really speaks to my heart; convicting me even while understanding what I'm going through! She has a deep faith in the Lord and makes sure she honours and glorifies God throughout her book.
One aspect which I loved and didn't expect of this book is Nika's journey towards understanding her singleness; this really spoke to me since I, like Nika wanted to be married and have a family and, like Nika never got to! Her journey to understanding God's will for her life was wonderful and reminded me that I do have a lot even without my biggest dream.
Of course, even if you are married, this book will still change your life. Read it! And I assure you, I don't say that about every book I read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 21, 2016
Hunting Hope makes me want to be a Hope Hunter!
Whether you're in a season that feels like winter---dark and cold and hopeless---or if you already know the new promise and hope of spring, in either extreme, you will be deeply changed by this book.
When I opened this book for the first time, I had just a few minutes between activities to start the first chapter. But, the truth and hope on each page, combined with the personal stories and examples, kept me spellbound---with both laughter AND tears---for chapter upon chapter. Before I realized it, I had read the first six chapters without moving, and had underlined, starred, and highlighted more than half of the words I'd read! As she shares stories from her own life in such a humble and personal way, Nika makes you feel as if you are a friend of hers, who has sat down with you for coffee...and you just want to keep talking to her!
Through Hunting Hope, Nika inspires us to fight for hope in our lives, and to honor and trust the One who knows our pain, but who also holds unlimited possibilities for us as His children. Even through pain, we can expect great things from our great God. There IS hope and God is ALWAYS at work. As Nika says so beautifully,
"...just let Him take over. He can handle it. Ask God to show up and be God. Then brace yourself. You're in for the ride of your life." Amen and amen! May we hunt for HOPE, with great expectation for the new things that are coming, even when we experience the weight of winter.
Whether you're in a season that feels like winter---dark and cold and hopeless---or if you already know the new promise and hope of spring, in either extreme, you will be deeply changed by this book.
When I opened this book for the first time, I had just a few minutes between activities to start the first chapter. But, the truth and hope on each page, combined with the personal stories and examples, kept me spellbound---with both laughter AND tears---for chapter upon chapter. Before I realized it, I had read the first six chapters without moving, and had underlined, starred, and highlighted more than half of the words I'd read! As she shares stories from her own life in such a humble and personal way, Nika makes you feel as if you are a friend of hers, who has sat down with you for coffee...and you just want to keep talking to her!
Through Hunting Hope, Nika inspires us to fight for hope in our lives, and to honor and trust the One who knows our pain, but who also holds unlimited possibilities for us as His children. Even through pain, we can expect great things from our great God. There IS hope and God is ALWAYS at work. As Nika says so beautifully,
"...just let Him take over. He can handle it. Ask God to show up and be God. Then brace yourself. You're in for the ride of your life." Amen and amen! May we hunt for HOPE, with great expectation for the new things that are coming, even when we experience the weight of winter.
May 13, 2016
Hunting Hope is one of those books that I'm pretty sure was written just for me. As in, Nika Maples sat down, got in my head, and wrote exactly what I needed to hear. Ok, probably not. But that's the cool thing about God - He isn't limited by the fact that Nika and I have never met. He still used her words to speak grace and truth and conviction and HOPE to my heart.
In her engaging, conversational and "real" style - infused with touches of delightfully wry humor - Nika Maples challenged me to pursue hope like I'm hunting it down. Her teaching on this subject comes from a place of experience and therefore from the lessons she's learned in the dark & dreary winter seasons of her life. It's practical, accessible, and so very encouraging.
Nika's honest insights and anecdotes from her own life added to the compelling and engaging tone of Hunting Hope. Her humor made me chuckle; her stories often made me teary; her relationship with Jesus made me want to tune up those areas of my own that could use a little work. I will particularly take away the reminder of how tender and personal Jesus is with each of us - in each season of our lives. This is something I already have experienced for myself, but the way it was framed on these pages gave me fresh insight and renewed love for my God. The truth taught in Hunting Hope is accessible to everyone yet still incredibly profound. It will touch the deepest places of your heart and give you the courage to be a hope hunter.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
In her engaging, conversational and "real" style - infused with touches of delightfully wry humor - Nika Maples challenged me to pursue hope like I'm hunting it down. Her teaching on this subject comes from a place of experience and therefore from the lessons she's learned in the dark & dreary winter seasons of her life. It's practical, accessible, and so very encouraging.
Nika's honest insights and anecdotes from her own life added to the compelling and engaging tone of Hunting Hope. Her humor made me chuckle; her stories often made me teary; her relationship with Jesus made me want to tune up those areas of my own that could use a little work. I will particularly take away the reminder of how tender and personal Jesus is with each of us - in each season of our lives. This is something I already have experienced for myself, but the way it was framed on these pages gave me fresh insight and renewed love for my God. The truth taught in Hunting Hope is accessible to everyone yet still incredibly profound. It will touch the deepest places of your heart and give you the courage to be a hope hunter.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
March 5, 2016
This book touched my heart from the very beginning. Nika Maples gives inspirational thoughts as to how and why we can have hope in all circumstances in our lives. There are times when we have to really dig to find the hope and other times, hope seems to be staring right at us. Each situation is unique and how we deal with these situations can determine our attitude and possibly the outcome. I kept a journal while reading this book and I have many quotes from Nika Maples in the journal. One of my favorite quotes is " How we see God will affect how we see our circumstances. But, if we are not careful, how we see our circumstances will affect how we see God." Instead of blaming God or others or even ourselves for what is happening, look for the hope that is in each situation. Even if the hope is hard to find, keep looking, because Hope Hunters search for hope and find hope. I highly recommend this book.
March 13, 2016
A must read for everyone! We have all had struggles in life but what you do with those situations that drag you to the depths is what really matters. Nika Maples uses her own personal struggles along with Bible stories to create a wonderful masterpiece. This was a book that I could not put down and it included so many thoughts and ideas that I related to on a personal and professional level. At some point in our lives we all hit that breaking point where we can't seem to find the way out and we have to trust that God knows the plan and will lead us through. This book offers hope and dives into the Bible to show that we are not alone and that we will be brought out and that we have to keep hunting for hope.
April 3, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. Sometimes I feel like I am the only one that is going through a tough season in my life and feel discouraged but there is hope. Nika went through several dark parts in her life that I don't think I could have gotten through but she went through the circumstances and shares that hope and how you can find hope in a dark season of your life too.
April 4, 2016
Accepting what we cannot change, while anticipating future blessings is hope! Well-written book full of personal and relatable stories, guiding the reader to find hope.
March 13, 2016
I cannot find the words to say how much I love this book. Nika Maples beautifully uses the analogy of trials as our winters, and hope as our springs. She leans on Scripture to back up each statement she makes, which, to me, reinforces its legitimacy. I found myself thinking back to situations in my life and realizing exactly what God was doing in those moments. Her writing is easy to read and full of hope. I loved it.
September 4, 2016
This wise and inspiring book is for the suffering spirit in all of us. The narrative is relatable and the author is, frankly, someone I'd love to have in my own life. Though there are never easy fixes to life's tough times, we are reassured that God is with us, always . Uplifting and reassuring, I highly recommend it!
April 5, 2016
Just finished this book! Nika has a beautiful way of sharing her challenging times in such a way that it has you crying one minute and laughing the next. Her tender descriptions of Gods compassion for us offers strength and hope for those dark moments.
August 9, 2016
A wonderfully written book on navigating the hard seasons in life. I'm definitely hanging on to this to read again
May 18, 2016
In Hunting Hope, Nika Maples explored the topic of discovering hope in the mist of life’s unexpected storms. She shared how at the young age of twenty how she endured a stroke that made her unable to walk and speak. She never thought she would have to go through this major challenge. In this book, she was able to find hope again. She shared how God was with her through it and how He is able to restore joy and bring back the light in your eyes. She also included how Biblical characters endure through their difficult times and how we can learn a lot from them.
My favorite chapter was the one entitled, “He Will Carry You”. In this chapter, Nika revealed how she struggled with being single and how people view you differently when you’re “unattached”. She told the personal story of deciding to attend a young married class at church. Most of her friends were in the class and she was told by the leader, “to come back when she had a ring on her finger”. This was heartbreaking to her and I personally see nothing wrong with a single person attending a marriage class when they are unmarried. I believe single people need to hear about where other married people are struggling and dealing with. I understand how some may not agree with that because some may be afraid that the single person might try and take their spouse. But if they are both actively working towards having a strong marriage and providing what the other spouse needs and wants, they shouldn’t have to worry about someone else trying to take their spouse. It was also tough to read about how when Niki was almost fortieth a lady at a Bible study asked her to lay hands on her daughter and pray for her. This lady’s daughter was 27 and she was still not married yet. I connected with this chapter because I’m 26 and still single and not really going on dates and I have only been in one relationship that I knew that was bad for me. I loved how she shared what single people go through. People are constantly trying to fix me up too and they all end badly. I connect with how Nika had a desire to have a child. I also have the same desire and I have considered adopting at some point. But being a single man, the odds are against me. It was comforting to read the story about the two men moving the piano and she related this back to how God is able to carry our burdens and how He is mighty enough to be our strong tower.
I would recommend this life changing book to anyone who is in need of some hope today. It’s so easy to lose our joy and hope for the future when life doesn’t go according to “our” plans. I love how she shared how God came through for her and how she was able to regain her hope after enduring a stroke. I really related to her and her struggles with being single and not really dating much. It’s was nice to know, I’m not the only one who has been let down and hurt by church members. I’m glad she shared how hunting and pursuing hope has increased her joy and help her to discover her purpose. I liked how she included tons of scriptures and Biblical stories in order to encourage readers to not to give up until they reach their promised land! This book has immensely helped to find my hope and joy again, if you’re losing hope, then go ahead and read this amazing book!
“I received a review copy of Hunting Hope from Litfuse for this review.”
My favorite chapter was the one entitled, “He Will Carry You”. In this chapter, Nika revealed how she struggled with being single and how people view you differently when you’re “unattached”. She told the personal story of deciding to attend a young married class at church. Most of her friends were in the class and she was told by the leader, “to come back when she had a ring on her finger”. This was heartbreaking to her and I personally see nothing wrong with a single person attending a marriage class when they are unmarried. I believe single people need to hear about where other married people are struggling and dealing with. I understand how some may not agree with that because some may be afraid that the single person might try and take their spouse. But if they are both actively working towards having a strong marriage and providing what the other spouse needs and wants, they shouldn’t have to worry about someone else trying to take their spouse. It was also tough to read about how when Niki was almost fortieth a lady at a Bible study asked her to lay hands on her daughter and pray for her. This lady’s daughter was 27 and she was still not married yet. I connected with this chapter because I’m 26 and still single and not really going on dates and I have only been in one relationship that I knew that was bad for me. I loved how she shared what single people go through. People are constantly trying to fix me up too and they all end badly. I connect with how Nika had a desire to have a child. I also have the same desire and I have considered adopting at some point. But being a single man, the odds are against me. It was comforting to read the story about the two men moving the piano and she related this back to how God is able to carry our burdens and how He is mighty enough to be our strong tower.
I would recommend this life changing book to anyone who is in need of some hope today. It’s so easy to lose our joy and hope for the future when life doesn’t go according to “our” plans. I love how she shared how God came through for her and how she was able to regain her hope after enduring a stroke. I really related to her and her struggles with being single and not really dating much. It’s was nice to know, I’m not the only one who has been let down and hurt by church members. I’m glad she shared how hunting and pursuing hope has increased her joy and help her to discover her purpose. I liked how she included tons of scriptures and Biblical stories in order to encourage readers to not to give up until they reach their promised land! This book has immensely helped to find my hope and joy again, if you’re losing hope, then go ahead and read this amazing book!
“I received a review copy of Hunting Hope from Litfuse for this review.”
May 23, 2016
Source: Free copy from Worthy Publishing and Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for a review.
Rating: 5 stars for excellent
Summary:
Hunting Hope is written for an audience of readers going through a dark time of suffering and despair.
An opening question begins the focal question to be answered in the book: where is God in the hard times?
Maples explains,
Questions about suffering are questions about sovereignty, Either God is in control, or He isn't. If God is in control, then what we know about God is more important than what we know about our circumstances. Page 7
Maples answers the focus question by teaching us to be "hope hunters." Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Lazarus, and Paul were all hope hunters. Their stories bring a Biblical perspective and reminder to us: we are all hope hunters, hunting for hope in the hard seasons of life.
The hope hunter's response to obstacles is always to surrender to God's work through our trials. God is for us, not against, us. Perhaps our best question is not "How could You let this happen to me, Lord?" but "How are You using this for me, Lord?" Page 7
My Thoughts:
I love this book for several reasons.
Afterwards, many of her teachings continue to recur in my mind. I feel this is one of those books that I will go back and read again and again, sort of like a devotional book.
Nika Maples has gone through hard seasons in life. One particular time is when she was left a quadriplegic after a stroke. She has since recovered. Maples looks back on this period in her life to bring about a blessing to readers going through hard times.
Maples shares from her life, but the focus is not on her, it is on the Lord and His work in her life.
Maples tone in the book is of a dear friend, holding my hand, and speaking gently. She is personable, transparent, and loving.
Often, while reading the book I had to stop and ponder. Hunting Hope is a deeply moving and penetrating book.
Hunting Hope is full of rich quotes:
Suffering refines our character, and when we grow closer to God because of it, suffering reveals God's character. The Bible tells us that faithfulness is His character, and we see that clearly through the way He sustains us in our trials. Pages 22
God doesn't want to stay in our lovely chapels. He wants to walk the much of our streets. Page 33
Is it possible that the dark seasons in your life have had similar themes? Ask the Lord to help you see what they are. Maybe yesterday has prepared you for today. Before you begin a battle, ask the Holy Spirit to show you the sword in the corner-the weapon or tool that already belongs to you. Page 76
...but God has used your yesterdays to strengthen you for today. Page 78
Jesus is always beside me, but He doesn't take the trash to the curb. He doesn't help me clean the pool. Instead, He gives me the patience, gives me the inner strength, gives me the grace, and gives me the wisdom to do it myself. Page 148
There is a webcast this Thursday, May 26, for Hunting Hope.
https://www.facebook.com/events/25783...
Rating: 5 stars for excellent
Summary:
Hunting Hope is written for an audience of readers going through a dark time of suffering and despair.
An opening question begins the focal question to be answered in the book: where is God in the hard times?
Maples explains,
Questions about suffering are questions about sovereignty, Either God is in control, or He isn't. If God is in control, then what we know about God is more important than what we know about our circumstances. Page 7
Maples answers the focus question by teaching us to be "hope hunters." Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Lazarus, and Paul were all hope hunters. Their stories bring a Biblical perspective and reminder to us: we are all hope hunters, hunting for hope in the hard seasons of life.
The hope hunter's response to obstacles is always to surrender to God's work through our trials. God is for us, not against, us. Perhaps our best question is not "How could You let this happen to me, Lord?" but "How are You using this for me, Lord?" Page 7
My Thoughts:
I love this book for several reasons.
Afterwards, many of her teachings continue to recur in my mind. I feel this is one of those books that I will go back and read again and again, sort of like a devotional book.
Nika Maples has gone through hard seasons in life. One particular time is when she was left a quadriplegic after a stroke. She has since recovered. Maples looks back on this period in her life to bring about a blessing to readers going through hard times.
Maples shares from her life, but the focus is not on her, it is on the Lord and His work in her life.
Maples tone in the book is of a dear friend, holding my hand, and speaking gently. She is personable, transparent, and loving.
Often, while reading the book I had to stop and ponder. Hunting Hope is a deeply moving and penetrating book.
Hunting Hope is full of rich quotes:
Suffering refines our character, and when we grow closer to God because of it, suffering reveals God's character. The Bible tells us that faithfulness is His character, and we see that clearly through the way He sustains us in our trials. Pages 22
God doesn't want to stay in our lovely chapels. He wants to walk the much of our streets. Page 33
Is it possible that the dark seasons in your life have had similar themes? Ask the Lord to help you see what they are. Maybe yesterday has prepared you for today. Before you begin a battle, ask the Holy Spirit to show you the sword in the corner-the weapon or tool that already belongs to you. Page 76
...but God has used your yesterdays to strengthen you for today. Page 78
Jesus is always beside me, but He doesn't take the trash to the curb. He doesn't help me clean the pool. Instead, He gives me the patience, gives me the inner strength, gives me the grace, and gives me the wisdom to do it myself. Page 148
There is a webcast this Thursday, May 26, for Hunting Hope.
https://www.facebook.com/events/25783...
May 27, 2016
(*DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FOR FREE AS PART OF THE LITFUSE PUBLICITY BLOGGERS PROGRAM, IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. NO OTHER FORM OF COMPENSATION WAS GIVEN, AND ALL OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS REVIEW ARE MY OWN.)
Introduction:
Inspirational stories that actually touch your soul are difficult to find. It's not that inspirational stories are rare - they border the line between memoirs and spirituals, and we all know how common those books are. However, rarely does a book ride the line so well that it accomplishes the goal of both these genres. "Hunting Hope" manages to succeed in this endeavor, and also boasts the ability to inspire you to never give up on your goals. It doesn't seek to make you feel guilty for feeling overwhelmed, but instead desires to encourage you through whatever your struggles may be. The author, Nika Maples, possesses an inspiring story, but acknowledges that most of us will never experience the kind of miracle she did. This allows for an nonjudgmental feel for the book. You never end up feeling guilty that undue hardship has never befallen you. You close the book feeling encouraged to tackle the day. This book is like a "Carpe Diem" shot to the soul.
The Inner Workings:
"Hunting Hope" is a relatively short book, perfect for an uplifting weekend read. The book is divided into two sections, one labeled God's Character in which the author digs into the Bible to encourage us that God retains control regardless of whatever chaos you are currently experiencing in your life. The next stage of the book is entitled Our Character, details the character traits we should embody in order to remain hopeful about our situations. Each chapter is usually around ten pages, which makes the act of reading the book rather gratifying. You will fall into the trap of "just one more chapter". Thankfully, though, the swiftness in which you will devour the book will prevent any after-midnight reading sessions. Because this book contains short chapters, and is relatively short in length, it's perfect for early morning reading.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, if you're looking for your next inspirational weekend read, give "Hunting Hope" a gander. It's satisfying, well-written, and is certainly inspirational. Regardless of whether you are in a rough season of life or not, "Hunting Hope" provides a refreshing outlook on the struggles of existence.
Recommended For:
Those aged 13+
Those going through a difficult period
Those who need encouragement
Those looking for an uplifting weekend read
Introduction:
Inspirational stories that actually touch your soul are difficult to find. It's not that inspirational stories are rare - they border the line between memoirs and spirituals, and we all know how common those books are. However, rarely does a book ride the line so well that it accomplishes the goal of both these genres. "Hunting Hope" manages to succeed in this endeavor, and also boasts the ability to inspire you to never give up on your goals. It doesn't seek to make you feel guilty for feeling overwhelmed, but instead desires to encourage you through whatever your struggles may be. The author, Nika Maples, possesses an inspiring story, but acknowledges that most of us will never experience the kind of miracle she did. This allows for an nonjudgmental feel for the book. You never end up feeling guilty that undue hardship has never befallen you. You close the book feeling encouraged to tackle the day. This book is like a "Carpe Diem" shot to the soul.
The Inner Workings:
"Hunting Hope" is a relatively short book, perfect for an uplifting weekend read. The book is divided into two sections, one labeled God's Character in which the author digs into the Bible to encourage us that God retains control regardless of whatever chaos you are currently experiencing in your life. The next stage of the book is entitled Our Character, details the character traits we should embody in order to remain hopeful about our situations. Each chapter is usually around ten pages, which makes the act of reading the book rather gratifying. You will fall into the trap of "just one more chapter". Thankfully, though, the swiftness in which you will devour the book will prevent any after-midnight reading sessions. Because this book contains short chapters, and is relatively short in length, it's perfect for early morning reading.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, if you're looking for your next inspirational weekend read, give "Hunting Hope" a gander. It's satisfying, well-written, and is certainly inspirational. Regardless of whether you are in a rough season of life or not, "Hunting Hope" provides a refreshing outlook on the struggles of existence.
Recommended For:
Those aged 13+
Those going through a difficult period
Those who need encouragement
Those looking for an uplifting weekend read
May 21, 2016
Hunting Hope: Dig Through the Darkness to Find the Light (April 2016, Worthy Inspired)
Hope is not an accident. Sometimes it has to be hunted, and hunting it takes courage.
Hope hunters know how to excavate hope from hardship. There is dirt underneath their fingernails and sweat on their shirts. They rake through the rubble of an unwanted situation, digging into difficult circumstances because they have come to expect that adversity will produce good. They believe that light always triumphs over darkness. They have learned to walk through winter with their eyes on spring.
Nika Maples became a hope hunter after suffering a massive brainstem stroke that left her quadriplegic in her twenties. Doctors warned that she had as little as 48 hours to live, and-if she lived at all-she would never walk or talk again. There was no hope on the horizon. So Nika started to hunt for it. Today, she not only walks, but she speaks to audiences everywhere about the power of hunting hope when a situation appears hopeless. She says hope remains camouflaged in the daily mundane. If we are not looking for it, we will miss it, though it is right before our eyes.
Whether you or someone you know is going through a situation that feels hopeless, you will find encouragement in Hunting Hope. Whether you are experiencing a medical trauma, a financial hardship, or a relational crisis, you will find empowerment in Hunting Hope. As you read, you will cling to 20 truths about God’s character and practice 5 daily disciplines that will develop your own character in crisis.
You will become a hope hunter.
Maybe it doesn’t matter what causes suffering in our lives as much as it matters what suffering causes in our lives. Maybe we were all meant to be hope hunters.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
Nika Maples
{MORE ABOUT NIKA MAPLES}
Nika Maples is the author of Twelve Clean Pages, the memoir of her survival of lupus and a stroke that left her quadriplegic at age 20. After learning to walk and talk again, she became a public school teacher, winning 2007 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. She holds an MA in English Education from Columbia University and currently is pursuing an MDIV from The King’s University. When she is not traveling to speak, she lives, writes, and laughs as much as possible in Fort Worth, Texas.
Hope is not an accident. Sometimes it has to be hunted, and hunting it takes courage.
Hope hunters know how to excavate hope from hardship. There is dirt underneath their fingernails and sweat on their shirts. They rake through the rubble of an unwanted situation, digging into difficult circumstances because they have come to expect that adversity will produce good. They believe that light always triumphs over darkness. They have learned to walk through winter with their eyes on spring.
Nika Maples became a hope hunter after suffering a massive brainstem stroke that left her quadriplegic in her twenties. Doctors warned that she had as little as 48 hours to live, and-if she lived at all-she would never walk or talk again. There was no hope on the horizon. So Nika started to hunt for it. Today, she not only walks, but she speaks to audiences everywhere about the power of hunting hope when a situation appears hopeless. She says hope remains camouflaged in the daily mundane. If we are not looking for it, we will miss it, though it is right before our eyes.
Whether you or someone you know is going through a situation that feels hopeless, you will find encouragement in Hunting Hope. Whether you are experiencing a medical trauma, a financial hardship, or a relational crisis, you will find empowerment in Hunting Hope. As you read, you will cling to 20 truths about God’s character and practice 5 daily disciplines that will develop your own character in crisis.
You will become a hope hunter.
Maybe it doesn’t matter what causes suffering in our lives as much as it matters what suffering causes in our lives. Maybe we were all meant to be hope hunters.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
Nika Maples
{MORE ABOUT NIKA MAPLES}
Nika Maples is the author of Twelve Clean Pages, the memoir of her survival of lupus and a stroke that left her quadriplegic at age 20. After learning to walk and talk again, she became a public school teacher, winning 2007 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. She holds an MA in English Education from Columbia University and currently is pursuing an MDIV from The King’s University. When she is not traveling to speak, she lives, writes, and laughs as much as possible in Fort Worth, Texas.
April 25, 2016
We all go through dark times. Sometimes it’s a major tragedy. Other times it’s the million little grinds of daily life weighing us down. We all need to find a place here we can find hope. That’s why I was pleased to received the opportunity to review Nika Maples’ book Hunting Hope: Dig Through the Darkness to Find the Light.
In this book, Maples takes real-life experiences and adds Biblical wisdom to create a wealth of practical advice for things to do when you are in a spiritual winter. The book is split into two halves. First, Maples concentrates fifteen chapters exploring God’s character in the storms of your life. These contain ideas such as he is with you, he will not forget you and he is enough for you. The second section of the book explains what our character should be in the storms of life. For example, we can give grace and keep going.
I related to many of the feelings and scriptures in this book, and I truly enjoyed the opportunity to read it. One of the surprises in this book was a place where Maples mentions mourning. She discusses the depression that she had felt and the mourning that she had had in her life over not having any children. As my sister has struggled with infertility this really touched me. In fact, I found myself crying, realizing I had never allowed myself to mourn the dream and longing of my sister that has went unfulfilled. Then, I thought of other dreams in my life that I hadn’t mourned so that I could embrace God’s promise and will for my life. I spent some time mourning as I read this book.
Maples, however, didn’t leave me in a place of mourning. Instead, throughout the book, with the experiences of her life, she showed me the hope that God has always fulfilled in his faithfulness. My favorite real-life experience of hunting hope from the book is the tale of Maples mother carrying around useless circus tickets in her billfold for a year in hopes of one day being able to use them when the theater came back to town. That is the kind of persistent hopefulness in God and in other people that we all should have.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In this book, Maples takes real-life experiences and adds Biblical wisdom to create a wealth of practical advice for things to do when you are in a spiritual winter. The book is split into two halves. First, Maples concentrates fifteen chapters exploring God’s character in the storms of your life. These contain ideas such as he is with you, he will not forget you and he is enough for you. The second section of the book explains what our character should be in the storms of life. For example, we can give grace and keep going.
I related to many of the feelings and scriptures in this book, and I truly enjoyed the opportunity to read it. One of the surprises in this book was a place where Maples mentions mourning. She discusses the depression that she had felt and the mourning that she had had in her life over not having any children. As my sister has struggled with infertility this really touched me. In fact, I found myself crying, realizing I had never allowed myself to mourn the dream and longing of my sister that has went unfulfilled. Then, I thought of other dreams in my life that I hadn’t mourned so that I could embrace God’s promise and will for my life. I spent some time mourning as I read this book.
Maples, however, didn’t leave me in a place of mourning. Instead, throughout the book, with the experiences of her life, she showed me the hope that God has always fulfilled in his faithfulness. My favorite real-life experience of hunting hope from the book is the tale of Maples mother carrying around useless circus tickets in her billfold for a year in hopes of one day being able to use them when the theater came back to town. That is the kind of persistent hopefulness in God and in other people that we all should have.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2016
While written primarily for women this book still has some applicable points for others as well. There was alot about this book that I enjoyed. I appreciated Nika Maples open and honest personal life examples to share with us the hope that is found in God for those who hunt after it. I believe you can see part of her personality in her writing. At times Maples is serious and at other times she is comical in her examples and illustrations which brings good variety to her writing. I also enjoyed how Maples weaves in many Bible references and in some cases shapes and changes the readers perspective on how God shapes us through our pain, our dark seasons and the winters in our lives.
Maples reminds us that pain is not something to be avoided but that we can learn and grow from all of our experiences even the painful ones. It is those times that bring us closer to God because He walks with us through the pain. Maples points toward spiritual practices like prayer and fasting during these difficult seasons of life to connect more deeply with God to more clearly discern His will and voice.
Alot of people wonder where God is in their pain and suffering and Maples does well at informing the reader that God is there with them during these times. Maples also does well at informing the reader how to recognize God's work in these seasons and more clearly connect with Him during those times when we feel alone in our dark seasons.
Maples also encourages the reader to share their story with others. As we do so we illustrate to others God's work in our lives and can point others to the hope that is found in God alone. When we share our stories it is not just the winter seasons that declare God's greatness but also all the seasons God walks with us through in life.
NOTE: I received an advance copy of this book to provide a fair and unbiased review.
See Full Review Here:
https://joemcfadden.org/2016/05/08/hu...
Maples reminds us that pain is not something to be avoided but that we can learn and grow from all of our experiences even the painful ones. It is those times that bring us closer to God because He walks with us through the pain. Maples points toward spiritual practices like prayer and fasting during these difficult seasons of life to connect more deeply with God to more clearly discern His will and voice.
Alot of people wonder where God is in their pain and suffering and Maples does well at informing the reader that God is there with them during these times. Maples also does well at informing the reader how to recognize God's work in these seasons and more clearly connect with Him during those times when we feel alone in our dark seasons.
Maples also encourages the reader to share their story with others. As we do so we illustrate to others God's work in our lives and can point others to the hope that is found in God alone. When we share our stories it is not just the winter seasons that declare God's greatness but also all the seasons God walks with us through in life.
NOTE: I received an advance copy of this book to provide a fair and unbiased review.
See Full Review Here:
https://joemcfadden.org/2016/05/08/hu...
April 19, 2016
I have read several books to help Christians understand suffering. This one is the best I've read in ages.
Lest we think Maples doesn't know suffering, she shares her own story. She was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus at twelve years old. She suffered a massive brainstem stroke at twenty that almost killed her. Although she learned to walk and talk again through rehabilitation, she lives every day with the challenge of chronic illness and disability. She still has a limping gait, using a cane on good days and a walker on bad ones.
I really like her attitude that it is about God's sovereignty. Either He is in control or He is not. “If God is in control, then what we know about God is more important than what we know about our circumstances.” She does an excellent job in showing how God uses the darkness of suffering for character formation, drawing us closer to Him, preparing us for something new, and more.
Maples writes about the unexpected blessing of suffering, encouraging us to know that all of God's actions are out of love, even if we do not understand them. She uses examples of biblical characters to remind us that we often do not know God's plan until we walk through the suffering in obedience.
The lessons she shares from the Bible and her own experience are insightful and practical. I really liked her insight of 2 Corinthians 6. Before Paul lists his troubles, he declares that it was the time of God's favor. Paul expected to see God in the midst of his times of suffering. What a lesson for us.
I highly recommend this book to anyone in need of encouragement for going through suffering. Maples' insight from her own suffering and her understanding of God's character will boost your faith in a loving God Who is working out His plan for your life.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
Lest we think Maples doesn't know suffering, she shares her own story. She was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus at twelve years old. She suffered a massive brainstem stroke at twenty that almost killed her. Although she learned to walk and talk again through rehabilitation, she lives every day with the challenge of chronic illness and disability. She still has a limping gait, using a cane on good days and a walker on bad ones.
I really like her attitude that it is about God's sovereignty. Either He is in control or He is not. “If God is in control, then what we know about God is more important than what we know about our circumstances.” She does an excellent job in showing how God uses the darkness of suffering for character formation, drawing us closer to Him, preparing us for something new, and more.
Maples writes about the unexpected blessing of suffering, encouraging us to know that all of God's actions are out of love, even if we do not understand them. She uses examples of biblical characters to remind us that we often do not know God's plan until we walk through the suffering in obedience.
The lessons she shares from the Bible and her own experience are insightful and practical. I really liked her insight of 2 Corinthians 6. Before Paul lists his troubles, he declares that it was the time of God's favor. Paul expected to see God in the midst of his times of suffering. What a lesson for us.
I highly recommend this book to anyone in need of encouragement for going through suffering. Maples' insight from her own suffering and her understanding of God's character will boost your faith in a loving God Who is working out His plan for your life.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
Read
May 9, 2016Hope shines through in this beautiful book by Nika Maples. Throughout Nika’s book, she shares her story of how she found Hope during the difficult circumstances of her life — of becoming a quadriplegic at the age of 20. However, Nika has not allowed the difficulties in life define her. Instead she has recognized the great hope God has given her and fought for life, and God has used her testimony for His glory.
Thankfully, Nika learned to walk again and she shares her story throughout the world encouraging others to have the same hope that gets her through each day. Nika defines the hard circumstances of life as winter. Everyone of us experiences winter seasons in our life, and this book shares that no matter how dark our circumstances may become, there is always hope. The message of this book is one that I have always practiced in my own life, and one that I needed to be reminded of. I am currently dealing with a winter season due to my disability of Cerebral Palsy and some complications from that. In a couple of weeks I will be having a major surgery, but this book has been a balm to my soul and I thank God for bringing it my way. One of my favorite quotes from this book states, “Do not let yourself be defined by one suffering season for the rest of your life. … Your identity is bigger than the facts of your life. You don’t have to act like winter takes all. You are not winter. And winter is not your only season. Joy will give you the strength to walk out of it.” I think everyone should read this book and apply its message of hope to their life. It is such a gift to know that joy can always be found no matter what we face in life, and I pray that everyone reading this finds that same joy.
I was given a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my review.
Thankfully, Nika learned to walk again and she shares her story throughout the world encouraging others to have the same hope that gets her through each day. Nika defines the hard circumstances of life as winter. Everyone of us experiences winter seasons in our life, and this book shares that no matter how dark our circumstances may become, there is always hope. The message of this book is one that I have always practiced in my own life, and one that I needed to be reminded of. I am currently dealing with a winter season due to my disability of Cerebral Palsy and some complications from that. In a couple of weeks I will be having a major surgery, but this book has been a balm to my soul and I thank God for bringing it my way. One of my favorite quotes from this book states, “Do not let yourself be defined by one suffering season for the rest of your life. … Your identity is bigger than the facts of your life. You don’t have to act like winter takes all. You are not winter. And winter is not your only season. Joy will give you the strength to walk out of it.” I think everyone should read this book and apply its message of hope to their life. It is such a gift to know that joy can always be found no matter what we face in life, and I pray that everyone reading this finds that same joy.
I was given a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my review.
May 16, 2016
Winter is inevitable. Both in nature and in our own lives. We will all at some point in time or another face a winter of the soul.
We will encounter those times when life is hard and painful and God seems more like a figment of our imagination than anything real and tangible. Our world will be darkness, we won’t be able to see anything good.
But good is there. Crouching just under the surface, all we have to do is search for it, to pray for our eyes to be open to His working good in us and through us. We won’t see it right away, but in time, in His timing we will. And we will rejoice.
In Hunting Hope, Nika Maples gives us a road map to Hunting Hope. She lovingly, kindly and at time humorously teaches us how to be a hunter of Hope. She reminds us we are not alone, that we won’t always see death around us. She tells us that when we look around at the bare trees, the grey skies, the silent world, we can still have hope if we choose to hunt for it.
In this short book (just a hair over 200 pages), Nika shares personal stories, God stories and uncovers the hope we all have in Christ. She floods each page, not with her words, but with the words of God. I love the amount of Scripture she uses! It is so refreshing!!
And it teaches us where our true Hope comes from!
This book is so well-written, you’ll want to sit down and read it all at once. But don’t! Take your time, read it slowly, look up the Scriptures. Pray about what you’re reading. And hunt for your own hope.
I fully recommend that everyone read this book now. Not later when you’re experiencing your own winter of soul, but now, so when your winter comes, you are prepared and armed for battle.
I simply cannot recommend this book enough. It is revolutionary!!
I received a free copy of this book from LitFuse for the purpose of review.
We will encounter those times when life is hard and painful and God seems more like a figment of our imagination than anything real and tangible. Our world will be darkness, we won’t be able to see anything good.
But good is there. Crouching just under the surface, all we have to do is search for it, to pray for our eyes to be open to His working good in us and through us. We won’t see it right away, but in time, in His timing we will. And we will rejoice.
In Hunting Hope, Nika Maples gives us a road map to Hunting Hope. She lovingly, kindly and at time humorously teaches us how to be a hunter of Hope. She reminds us we are not alone, that we won’t always see death around us. She tells us that when we look around at the bare trees, the grey skies, the silent world, we can still have hope if we choose to hunt for it.
In this short book (just a hair over 200 pages), Nika shares personal stories, God stories and uncovers the hope we all have in Christ. She floods each page, not with her words, but with the words of God. I love the amount of Scripture she uses! It is so refreshing!!
And it teaches us where our true Hope comes from!
This book is so well-written, you’ll want to sit down and read it all at once. But don’t! Take your time, read it slowly, look up the Scriptures. Pray about what you’re reading. And hunt for your own hope.
I fully recommend that everyone read this book now. Not later when you’re experiencing your own winter of soul, but now, so when your winter comes, you are prepared and armed for battle.
I simply cannot recommend this book enough. It is revolutionary!!
I received a free copy of this book from LitFuse for the purpose of review.
May 10, 2016
Nika Maples, at a young age, suffered a stroke which left her unable to talk or walk and during these darkest days she struggled to find hope. It's very hard when we're experiencing a storm in our life to find the hope to go forward and face another day. Nika took the lessons she had learned and penned them in hopes that it would help someone else suffering a storm to find their hope. She uses both real life examples and biblical insight to bring her message.
But hope that is seen is no hope at all.
Who hopes for what they already have?
~Romans 8:24
This book is divided into 2 parts and consists of 20 chapaters and approximately 240 pages long. As I opened this beautiful book I found myself drawn to the journey this young woman endured and I'm not talking about the physical journey, but rather the spiritual journey. This book shows how she not only moved forward, but didn't let her storm define her. That says a lot right there. This is a book that will help you praise God during the storm. We all have hardships, whether they are physical, emotional, financial or spiritual, and we need to learn to trust God to guide our steps and direct our path. This is a book I would recommend to anyone and everyone.
**I received this book free from Litfuse Group as part of their blogger book tour. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
But hope that is seen is no hope at all.
Who hopes for what they already have?
~Romans 8:24
This book is divided into 2 parts and consists of 20 chapaters and approximately 240 pages long. As I opened this beautiful book I found myself drawn to the journey this young woman endured and I'm not talking about the physical journey, but rather the spiritual journey. This book shows how she not only moved forward, but didn't let her storm define her. That says a lot right there. This is a book that will help you praise God during the storm. We all have hardships, whether they are physical, emotional, financial or spiritual, and we need to learn to trust God to guide our steps and direct our path. This is a book I would recommend to anyone and everyone.
**I received this book free from Litfuse Group as part of their blogger book tour. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 9, 2016
There are times when many faces difficult times and wonder why does this happen to me, or why does God let these things happen to me. I know I have faced such situation and I do believe in God. May be I believe in a different God than others but I do respect all religion and their believes.
Hunting Hope by Nika Maples, tackles with all difficult subjects like "Disappointment, Disillusionment, Depression, Despair", about situations that brings us down and makes us feel bad. She beautifully describes these situations as Winter, the metaphorical portraiture is perfect as I have personally felt like it is dark and cold when I feel sad and gloomy.
The author shared her personal experience and practical ways to cope with those situation, she has numerous scriptural quotes though out the book. While reading this book I felt peaceful and it encouraged me to face my difficult times, not to hide from it.
While I did like reading the book, it felt like the author was speaking to me through her writings, but on some pages I felt she (author) jumped from one thing to the other without any link from the previous lines or pages. Which threw me off a little, but I was able to keep on reading without losing interest. Overall the book is a great spiritual guidance and on time of need it would really feel great to keep our mind focused.
4 Stars.
**I received a copy of the book from the publisher for reviewing purpose.
Hunting Hope by Nika Maples, tackles with all difficult subjects like "Disappointment, Disillusionment, Depression, Despair", about situations that brings us down and makes us feel bad. She beautifully describes these situations as Winter, the metaphorical portraiture is perfect as I have personally felt like it is dark and cold when I feel sad and gloomy.
The author shared her personal experience and practical ways to cope with those situation, she has numerous scriptural quotes though out the book. While reading this book I felt peaceful and it encouraged me to face my difficult times, not to hide from it.
While I did like reading the book, it felt like the author was speaking to me through her writings, but on some pages I felt she (author) jumped from one thing to the other without any link from the previous lines or pages. Which threw me off a little, but I was able to keep on reading without losing interest. Overall the book is a great spiritual guidance and on time of need it would really feel great to keep our mind focused.
4 Stars.
**I received a copy of the book from the publisher for reviewing purpose.
May 23, 2016
What I found in this book was a beautiful book filled with hope. Hunting Hope is full of inspiring stories and gut-wrenching moments that share all of the promises that are possible to God's children. Nika Maples shares her heart, and her honesty and the end result is that her transparency is a very beautiful thing for readers. Ms. Maples' humor made me laugh and smile and her stories often made me emotional and teary, but it was her relationship with Jesus that really made me look at those areas of my own life that could really use some work.
Accepting what we cannot change, while anticipating future blessings is the perfect definition of hope as Ms. Maples relates to readers. She leans on Scripture to back up every point she makes, helping readers see that the honest and true statements taken from God's Word. Ms. Maples' beautiful examples of God's compassion for us provides strength and hope to readers in their dark moments. Hunting Hope is easy to read and very well written in such a way that it allows readers to find the messages they need at the time they are needed.
I received a copy of this book without cost from the publisher through the litfuse bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Accepting what we cannot change, while anticipating future blessings is the perfect definition of hope as Ms. Maples relates to readers. She leans on Scripture to back up every point she makes, helping readers see that the honest and true statements taken from God's Word. Ms. Maples' beautiful examples of God's compassion for us provides strength and hope to readers in their dark moments. Hunting Hope is easy to read and very well written in such a way that it allows readers to find the messages they need at the time they are needed.
I received a copy of this book without cost from the publisher through the litfuse bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
April 23, 2016
We've all been through our own seasons of darkness, hoping to find just a glimmer of light. Dark seasons manifest themselves in a variety of ways: broken relationships, financial upheaval, a cancer diagnosis, etc. Author Nika Maples terms us "Hope Hunters".
This is a well written book, primarily targeted to women. It gives excellent teaching on finding our own hope, as well as glimpses into the author's own personal experience. The words flow from her pen like poetry. The abundance of love and grace in the author's life is obvious after reading several pages. I think women who struggle with these issues will find this volume to be liberating, and a step in the right direction to meet head-on with the hope that comes only through Jesus Christ. I would surmise that caretakers would be equally blessed by spending time with this book. For that, I do indeed recommend this book to you. You'll be blessed.
I received a copy of this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy from the publisher (Worthy Publishing) in exchange for an honest review. No other expectations exist with either the publisher, author or myself. You can find a copy of this review on GoodReads.com, Amazon.com, and my blog: jonreviewsbooks1.wordpress.com.
This is a well written book, primarily targeted to women. It gives excellent teaching on finding our own hope, as well as glimpses into the author's own personal experience. The words flow from her pen like poetry. The abundance of love and grace in the author's life is obvious after reading several pages. I think women who struggle with these issues will find this volume to be liberating, and a step in the right direction to meet head-on with the hope that comes only through Jesus Christ. I would surmise that caretakers would be equally blessed by spending time with this book. For that, I do indeed recommend this book to you. You'll be blessed.
I received a copy of this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy from the publisher (Worthy Publishing) in exchange for an honest review. No other expectations exist with either the publisher, author or myself. You can find a copy of this review on GoodReads.com, Amazon.com, and my blog: jonreviewsbooks1.wordpress.com.
May 16, 2016
An amazing, thoughtful, inspiring read that encourages you to look at your own life and see comparisons. While I may not have suffered a stroke like Nika did but the courage she had to face the physical complications and how she overcame this was inspiring. She took something that could break most people but her faith in God helped her through this time. I love how she was not scared to show us her faith. She let us in to her emotions, her life and those whom she had touched to show us God’s words.
At first, I struggled a bit at the beginning of the book but each turn of the page inspired me to continue to read. I saw myself in those pages, I saw the emotions, the struggles, the fears and how I sometimes pull away from my faith at those times. She taught me how to re-examine my relationship with God, how to understand and look at situations differently and gave me renewed hope.
Nika writes brilliantly and personally. You feel as though this book is a conversation with her and she already knows what your next question will be and is already answering it. You can immediately start applying the knowledge into your daily lives and it will help you on your faith journey. A brilliant book to add to your library.
At first, I struggled a bit at the beginning of the book but each turn of the page inspired me to continue to read. I saw myself in those pages, I saw the emotions, the struggles, the fears and how I sometimes pull away from my faith at those times. She taught me how to re-examine my relationship with God, how to understand and look at situations differently and gave me renewed hope.
Nika writes brilliantly and personally. You feel as though this book is a conversation with her and she already knows what your next question will be and is already answering it. You can immediately start applying the knowledge into your daily lives and it will help you on your faith journey. A brilliant book to add to your library.
January 1, 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Worthy Publishing for this free readers edition. In exchange I am providing an honest review.
Psalm 74:16-17 (VOICE)
16 The day and the night are both Yours—
You fashioned the sun, moon, and all the lights that pierce the darkness.
17 You have arranged the earth, set all its boundaries;
You are the Architect of the seasons: summer and winter.
"Winter is not a fluke. Winter is every bit as God-ordained, as blessed and necessary, as are the other three seasons." And so Nika Maples begins her book on finding hope - light - in the darkness of a winter season. Maples has quite a story and has been through many winters of life so she understands the loss of hope and the need to find it. Winter is a reality in life. Hope is a hard topic to unpack. It's a kind of a vague concept to try and grasp. It's nothing tangible so you have to be okay with it being something that dwells within. But you have to find it first. Maples had some great nuggets of wisdom in her title about hope. There was nothing that really stood out to me as transforming but that isn't a bad thing necessarily. Us humans have pretty horrible memories so reminders are never a bad idea.
Psalm 74:16-17 (VOICE)
16 The day and the night are both Yours—
You fashioned the sun, moon, and all the lights that pierce the darkness.
17 You have arranged the earth, set all its boundaries;
You are the Architect of the seasons: summer and winter.
"Winter is not a fluke. Winter is every bit as God-ordained, as blessed and necessary, as are the other three seasons." And so Nika Maples begins her book on finding hope - light - in the darkness of a winter season. Maples has quite a story and has been through many winters of life so she understands the loss of hope and the need to find it. Winter is a reality in life. Hope is a hard topic to unpack. It's a kind of a vague concept to try and grasp. It's nothing tangible so you have to be okay with it being something that dwells within. But you have to find it first. Maples had some great nuggets of wisdom in her title about hope. There was nothing that really stood out to me as transforming but that isn't a bad thing necessarily. Us humans have pretty horrible memories so reminders are never a bad idea.
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