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Dare to Begin Again: Let God Write Your Best Future
Is your life where you want it to be?
We all have struggles and challenges in life. Whether they are of our own making or not, things don’t always work out. Sometimes, we just give up on our dreams and goals.
But it doesn’t have to be that way! God is a God of new beginnings, and throughout the entire Bible, we read about people who were stuck, disappointed, and faced impossible situations—people God freed.
Rosalinda Torres Rivera challenges us to Dare to Begin Again . Using stories from her own life, other people, and biblical times, Rosalinda offers inspirational, down-to-earth advice on beginning again. Each chapter tackles a different issue where you may be “stuck”—such as an inability to forgive, trust, or hope—and examples of people who overcame similar challenges. Practical tasks at the end of each chapter walk you through a DARE challenge (Decide, Allow, Rise, Enjoy) to help you move closer to a fresh start.
Rosalinda is the daughter of Victor Torres, an ex-gang member from Brooklyn, New York, and his wife, Carmen, founders of the New Life For Youth ministry. She has seen more than twenty thousand people get out of tough situations and turn their lives around.
“They’re people whose tales of transformation prove God is still at work,” she says. “He’s written and re-written their life’s chapters—and He’s willing to do the same for you.”
It takes a commitment, but with the help of God, inspiring, true stories, and practical applications, you can Dare to Begin Again .
We all have struggles and challenges in life. Whether they are of our own making or not, things don’t always work out. Sometimes, we just give up on our dreams and goals.
But it doesn’t have to be that way! God is a God of new beginnings, and throughout the entire Bible, we read about people who were stuck, disappointed, and faced impossible situations—people God freed.
Rosalinda Torres Rivera challenges us to Dare to Begin Again . Using stories from her own life, other people, and biblical times, Rosalinda offers inspirational, down-to-earth advice on beginning again. Each chapter tackles a different issue where you may be “stuck”—such as an inability to forgive, trust, or hope—and examples of people who overcame similar challenges. Practical tasks at the end of each chapter walk you through a DARE challenge (Decide, Allow, Rise, Enjoy) to help you move closer to a fresh start.
Rosalinda is the daughter of Victor Torres, an ex-gang member from Brooklyn, New York, and his wife, Carmen, founders of the New Life For Youth ministry. She has seen more than twenty thousand people get out of tough situations and turn their lives around.
“They’re people whose tales of transformation prove God is still at work,” she says. “He’s written and re-written their life’s chapters—and He’s willing to do the same for you.”
It takes a commitment, but with the help of God, inspiring, true stories, and practical applications, you can Dare to Begin Again .
- GenresNonfiction
192 pages, Paperback
Published September 4, 2018
5 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
October 5, 2018
Because we’re not guaranteed tomorrow. That means if we don’t do those things we know we need to do today, we’re “burying that talent” for some other day. A day that may never come. We’re called to live this gift of a life now!
And that’s what Dare to Begin Again is all about. Within the pages, you’ll find a balance of Biblical stories and contemporary anecdotes to illustrate one simple truth.
Life requires risk.
Look, we all have areas where we need to start over. It may be our health, our relationships, dreams the Lord laid on our hearts, or simply our trust in Him—in the One we should trust the most!
Dare to Begin Again is a quiet but enthusiastic call to that re-starting point. It’s as if we’re in a swimming race and we jumped the gun. So, we climb back up on the diving board, settle into position and… sit there? Indefinitely as everyone else jumps in and races?
Not hardly. We dive again. And unlike the Olympics and other official racing organizations, if we muff it again, we start over. Again. And again. One more time? Sure!
That’s what this book is all about.
No, you won’t find tons of insights in here that you’ve never heard. And I think that’s good. There’s so much we already know that we don’t apply that more is just overwhelming.
What Ms. Rivera does is reminds us with her pointed “D.A.R.E.s” that we’re to take action. Now.
Because we’re not promised tomorrow.
Who do I recommend this book for? Anyone who knows they have things to accomplish that they’ve been putting off. While not earth-shattering information, I'm glad I requested a review copy so that I could be reminded of things I need to be reminded of.
I have one very minor caveat. In just a couple of places, Ms. Rivera does recount instances where God “speaks to her” in about things not spoken of in the Bible—very personal to her alone. If that bothers you, it should be noted that it is in here. It’s minor, and while that can really bother me, this time it hardly registered because it wasn’t her calling us to demand those words from the Lord.
And that’s what Dare to Begin Again is all about. Within the pages, you’ll find a balance of Biblical stories and contemporary anecdotes to illustrate one simple truth.
Life requires risk.
Look, we all have areas where we need to start over. It may be our health, our relationships, dreams the Lord laid on our hearts, or simply our trust in Him—in the One we should trust the most!
Dare to Begin Again is a quiet but enthusiastic call to that re-starting point. It’s as if we’re in a swimming race and we jumped the gun. So, we climb back up on the diving board, settle into position and… sit there? Indefinitely as everyone else jumps in and races?
Not hardly. We dive again. And unlike the Olympics and other official racing organizations, if we muff it again, we start over. Again. And again. One more time? Sure!
That’s what this book is all about.
No, you won’t find tons of insights in here that you’ve never heard. And I think that’s good. There’s so much we already know that we don’t apply that more is just overwhelming.
What Ms. Rivera does is reminds us with her pointed “D.A.R.E.s” that we’re to take action. Now.
Because we’re not promised tomorrow.
Who do I recommend this book for? Anyone who knows they have things to accomplish that they’ve been putting off. While not earth-shattering information, I'm glad I requested a review copy so that I could be reminded of things I need to be reminded of.
I have one very minor caveat. In just a couple of places, Ms. Rivera does recount instances where God “speaks to her” in about things not spoken of in the Bible—very personal to her alone. If that bothers you, it should be noted that it is in here. It’s minor, and while that can really bother me, this time it hardly registered because it wasn’t her calling us to demand those words from the Lord.
September 17, 2018
The quality of the writing is excellent! Rosalinda Rivera writes with a unique voice and a conversational yet grammatically correct style. I loved the formatting with the easy-to-understand chapter and sub-headings, too.
I agreed with and was touched by the thesis. I believe it is at the end of the introduction: “There is light at the end of your tunnel. There is victory in your tomorrow. Stop complaining about your current situation and let's do something about it. I dare you to turn your story over to God. I dare you to begin again.” Yes, she does dare, sharing some practical thoughts at the end of each chapter in a D.A.R.E. format, Desire, Allow, Rise, and Enjoy.
There are many personal narratives. The author uses many stories from her life and her parents' life to illustrate the main points. She also includes many riveting anecdotes from others. I especially loved the reference to Back to the Future and its flux capacitor. “Listening requires active participation. The better you get at it, the less likely you'll need a DeLorean or a crazy, wild-haired scientist to set things right.” A few of the stories made me want to cry, a few of them made me laugh.
I gave this book 4-stars, because though not quite as practical as I had hoped, the motivation and inspiration were great, as were the Bible studies for each chapter's lesson.
Favorite quotes:
“Most of the greatest heroes in the Bible experienced great failures, too. Many were stuck once, just like you....The man at the Pool of Bethesda was stuck in paralysis. Naomi was stuck in bitterness. The man in the graveyard was stuck with his demons. Daniel was stuck in the lions' den. Joseph was stuck in a pit. Jonah was stuck in a whale. Moses's mother was stuck in grief...”
“We learn to exist with a smell in our lives... Without realizing it, you can allow stinky circumstances to become your norm. If you want to begin again, you have to determine why a fresh start is important.”
“I want to challenge you to stop blaming others and stop making excuses. Smother the temptation to point your finger at someone else. We have to stop blaming before we are free to begin believing.”
“Because of His grace, He gives us the very thing we don't deserve, and His mercy holds back what we should receive. Lovingly, He does not force His gifts into our hands—it's up to us to open our hands and receive them. So we can begin again.”
“We must turn the key and free ourselves from ongoing, self-induced captivity. It's time to walk away, free from thoughts that say, I don't want to get burned or embarrassed again.”
“In that season of innocence, he [Joseph] dared much. He dared to dream and he dared to hope. Bullies are afraid of those who dare.”
“The truth is, no one who has offended, hurt, stolen, abused, wounded, or bullied deserves forgiveness. But somewhere in life, we all fall into one or more of these categories, whether we intended harm or not.”
“Stop pushing away caring and godly people who speak truth. To begin again, you need to surround yourself with those who will not tell you what your itching ears want to hear.”
“But remember, construction often looks like destruction when you start.”
“...Thankfulness is the fuel that feeds our minds, bodies, and spirits with renewed get up and go. It's the high octane energy available to us every day. But we have to ensure we don't get so busy or arrogant that we drive right by it.”
(I received this book for free. The decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own. I was not compensated for this review.)
I agreed with and was touched by the thesis. I believe it is at the end of the introduction: “There is light at the end of your tunnel. There is victory in your tomorrow. Stop complaining about your current situation and let's do something about it. I dare you to turn your story over to God. I dare you to begin again.” Yes, she does dare, sharing some practical thoughts at the end of each chapter in a D.A.R.E. format, Desire, Allow, Rise, and Enjoy.
There are many personal narratives. The author uses many stories from her life and her parents' life to illustrate the main points. She also includes many riveting anecdotes from others. I especially loved the reference to Back to the Future and its flux capacitor. “Listening requires active participation. The better you get at it, the less likely you'll need a DeLorean or a crazy, wild-haired scientist to set things right.” A few of the stories made me want to cry, a few of them made me laugh.
I gave this book 4-stars, because though not quite as practical as I had hoped, the motivation and inspiration were great, as were the Bible studies for each chapter's lesson.
Favorite quotes:
“Most of the greatest heroes in the Bible experienced great failures, too. Many were stuck once, just like you....The man at the Pool of Bethesda was stuck in paralysis. Naomi was stuck in bitterness. The man in the graveyard was stuck with his demons. Daniel was stuck in the lions' den. Joseph was stuck in a pit. Jonah was stuck in a whale. Moses's mother was stuck in grief...”
“We learn to exist with a smell in our lives... Without realizing it, you can allow stinky circumstances to become your norm. If you want to begin again, you have to determine why a fresh start is important.”
“I want to challenge you to stop blaming others and stop making excuses. Smother the temptation to point your finger at someone else. We have to stop blaming before we are free to begin believing.”
“Because of His grace, He gives us the very thing we don't deserve, and His mercy holds back what we should receive. Lovingly, He does not force His gifts into our hands—it's up to us to open our hands and receive them. So we can begin again.”
“We must turn the key and free ourselves from ongoing, self-induced captivity. It's time to walk away, free from thoughts that say, I don't want to get burned or embarrassed again.”
“In that season of innocence, he [Joseph] dared much. He dared to dream and he dared to hope. Bullies are afraid of those who dare.”
“The truth is, no one who has offended, hurt, stolen, abused, wounded, or bullied deserves forgiveness. But somewhere in life, we all fall into one or more of these categories, whether we intended harm or not.”
“Stop pushing away caring and godly people who speak truth. To begin again, you need to surround yourself with those who will not tell you what your itching ears want to hear.”
“But remember, construction often looks like destruction when you start.”
“...Thankfulness is the fuel that feeds our minds, bodies, and spirits with renewed get up and go. It's the high octane energy available to us every day. But we have to ensure we don't get so busy or arrogant that we drive right by it.”
(I received this book for free. The decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own. I was not compensated for this review.)
October 8, 2018
When you were little, did you ever play , "I dare you, I double dog dare you" game? Most of us didn't want to be called chicken so we took the dare. When I saw the title of this book, I thought how awesome it would be to begin again. I could wipe the slate clean, forget my past and be a new person. There was one thing I didn't take into consideration though. Would I have the strength to start over? This book has taken me on a journey I will never forget. I must keep my head clear, and not listen to the voice of the enemy. If you have heard all your life that you are stupid and would never amount to anything, it becomes part of your belief.
Today is a new day for me. Today I take the challenge and begin again. I loved when the author said, " If you spend your time and energy focused on all of the reasons someone else is at fault, you will never allow yourself to start over." It really is time for each of us to stop wasting our energy on what happened to us and start focusing on the new beginning we can have. Believe me I am talking directly to myself as well. I lived in a violent and abusive home growing up. Needless to say, it left scars that have followed me through my entire life. I am thankful for this book and all the wonderful encouraging words the author has written.
The enemy knows each one of our weaknesses and he is ready to pounce at any minute. I deal with anxiety and depression and it has taken a toll on me. This book has given me hope again as I read how other people from the bible overcame adversity. I always think about Job and all that was taken from him. Yet he still stood in faith and never faltered. I want to be like that. I want to focus on the plans God has for me and stop falling for the trap the enemy sets for me. How do I do that? I start to spend more time with Him, let Him be the one I turn to, let Him encourage me and remind me of His promises.
There are so many great chapters in the book that I devoured each one with hope. I love how the author is compassionate as she talks about forgiveness, taking risks and yes even starting over. God does have a plan for each of us. But in order to see that plan happen we need to give up control. That is so hard for me. I want to be in control of everything and I guess I think God needs my help. Thankfully He is gracious and " will release you from past failures hurts, disappointments, bitterness, and pain, if you will let Him." It's time for us to step aside and let God have control.
I really enjoyed the book and will continue to look through it daily. I "Dare To Begin Again" is a book that will change how you see and feel about yourself. We are not alone and each of us have struggles. God is right there waiting for us to reach out to Him. He wants to dry our tears, show us unconditional love and let us know we are special to Him.
"Your past is not the problem ; It's only when you live there that you're stuck."
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Today is a new day for me. Today I take the challenge and begin again. I loved when the author said, " If you spend your time and energy focused on all of the reasons someone else is at fault, you will never allow yourself to start over." It really is time for each of us to stop wasting our energy on what happened to us and start focusing on the new beginning we can have. Believe me I am talking directly to myself as well. I lived in a violent and abusive home growing up. Needless to say, it left scars that have followed me through my entire life. I am thankful for this book and all the wonderful encouraging words the author has written.
The enemy knows each one of our weaknesses and he is ready to pounce at any minute. I deal with anxiety and depression and it has taken a toll on me. This book has given me hope again as I read how other people from the bible overcame adversity. I always think about Job and all that was taken from him. Yet he still stood in faith and never faltered. I want to be like that. I want to focus on the plans God has for me and stop falling for the trap the enemy sets for me. How do I do that? I start to spend more time with Him, let Him be the one I turn to, let Him encourage me and remind me of His promises.
There are so many great chapters in the book that I devoured each one with hope. I love how the author is compassionate as she talks about forgiveness, taking risks and yes even starting over. God does have a plan for each of us. But in order to see that plan happen we need to give up control. That is so hard for me. I want to be in control of everything and I guess I think God needs my help. Thankfully He is gracious and " will release you from past failures hurts, disappointments, bitterness, and pain, if you will let Him." It's time for us to step aside and let God have control.
I really enjoyed the book and will continue to look through it daily. I "Dare To Begin Again" is a book that will change how you see and feel about yourself. We are not alone and each of us have struggles. God is right there waiting for us to reach out to Him. He wants to dry our tears, show us unconditional love and let us know we are special to Him.
"Your past is not the problem ; It's only when you live there that you're stuck."
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
October 5, 2018
Dare to Begin Again by author Rosalinda Rivera has an enticing pink cover with a lovely bouquet of flowers and says “Let God Write Your Best Future”. Okay, I’m in. This 184 page by Whitaker House had me with its cover. Then when I learned the DARE stood for Decide, Allow, Rise, Enjoy there was no putting this encouraging book down.
After an introduction there are sixteen chapters with different topics. All of these are relevant in today’s life. Dream Again, Forgive Again, Risk Again, Trust Again, Heal Again, and Love Again are just a sampling of what you will explore. There is a story, a God lesson, Bible tie in, closing with “I DARE YOU TO...”. Author Rivera encourages readers at the end to DARE to whatever the chapter title is. Dare to Hope, Begin, Forgive, or Listen.
I enjoyed the author’s writing style. It was easy to see this book has been well thought, researched, and organized. The author has a smooth style of writing and her words seem to just flow. Her stories and experiences are transparent and written to help readers. She provides encouragement, scripture, and food for thought. Author Rivera gives many positive, inspiring suggestions that stayed with me. “Stay positive and don’t allow negative thoughts to enter.” Another favorite is “Don’t let your past hurts, disappointments, and rejections hold you down.” Both of those stuck with me and had me nodding in agreement.
This book reminds readers that God is with us and for us. He has a plan for our future. She says to keep moving forward with determination and God, It is an upbeat, positive book. There is a lot of cheerleading to uplift readers but not a lot of instruction on how to exactly accomplish your goal. That is more implied or left to readers. She does give some guidance but not an abundance.
Author Rivera has written a God glorifying book filled with ideas, support, inspiration, scripture, and experiences to help readers. It is really a wonderful book. Any readers club, small group, or individual read would highly benefit from reading it. I highly recommend it and rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
This book was provided to me by Celebrate Lit Bloggers. The opinions expressed are my own, honest ones.
After an introduction there are sixteen chapters with different topics. All of these are relevant in today’s life. Dream Again, Forgive Again, Risk Again, Trust Again, Heal Again, and Love Again are just a sampling of what you will explore. There is a story, a God lesson, Bible tie in, closing with “I DARE YOU TO...”. Author Rivera encourages readers at the end to DARE to whatever the chapter title is. Dare to Hope, Begin, Forgive, or Listen.
I enjoyed the author’s writing style. It was easy to see this book has been well thought, researched, and organized. The author has a smooth style of writing and her words seem to just flow. Her stories and experiences are transparent and written to help readers. She provides encouragement, scripture, and food for thought. Author Rivera gives many positive, inspiring suggestions that stayed with me. “Stay positive and don’t allow negative thoughts to enter.” Another favorite is “Don’t let your past hurts, disappointments, and rejections hold you down.” Both of those stuck with me and had me nodding in agreement.
This book reminds readers that God is with us and for us. He has a plan for our future. She says to keep moving forward with determination and God, It is an upbeat, positive book. There is a lot of cheerleading to uplift readers but not a lot of instruction on how to exactly accomplish your goal. That is more implied or left to readers. She does give some guidance but not an abundance.
Author Rivera has written a God glorifying book filled with ideas, support, inspiration, scripture, and experiences to help readers. It is really a wonderful book. Any readers club, small group, or individual read would highly benefit from reading it. I highly recommend it and rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
This book was provided to me by Celebrate Lit Bloggers. The opinions expressed are my own, honest ones.
September 28, 2018
We all have struggles and challenges in life. Whether they are of our own making or not, things don’t always work out. Sometimes, we just give up on our dreams and goals. But it doesn’t have to be that way! God is a God of new beginnings, and throughout the entire Bible, we read about people who were stuck, disappointed, and faced impossible situations—people God freed. Rosalinda Torres Rivera challenges us to Dare to Begin Again. Using stories from her own life, other people, and biblical times, Rosalinda offers inspirational, down-to-earth advice on beginning again. Each chapter tackles a different issue where you may be “stuck”—such as an inability to forgive, trust, or hope—and examples of people who overcame similar challenges. Practical tasks at the end of each chapter walk you through a DARE challenge (Decide, Allow, Rise, Enjoy) to help you move closer to a fresh start. Rosalinda is the daughter of Victor Torres, an ex-gang member from Brooklyn, New York, and his wife, Carmen, founders of the New Life For Youth ministry. She has seen more than twenty thousand people get out of tough situations and turn their lives around. “They’re people whose tales of transformation prove God is still at work,” she says. “He’s written and re-written their life’s chapters—and He’s willing to do the same for you.” It takes a commitment, but with the help of God, inspiring, true stories, and practical applications, you can Dare to Begin Again.
My Thoughts: Everyone struggles with life. It doesn't matter if you're coming out of addiction, a bad marriage, or just coping with change. Maybe you are having difficulty making a dream come alive; stuck in a rut. This book is full of encouragement! The author Rosalinda Torres Rivera, takes a real-life example and then examines a similar situation through the Bible, on topics such as hope, forgiveness, sacrifice to name a few. The reader learns to let go and to rely on God to help them through the struggle.
Such a well written and useful book, that I think every reader could use at some point in their lives or know someone who does.
My Thoughts: Everyone struggles with life. It doesn't matter if you're coming out of addiction, a bad marriage, or just coping with change. Maybe you are having difficulty making a dream come alive; stuck in a rut. This book is full of encouragement! The author Rosalinda Torres Rivera, takes a real-life example and then examines a similar situation through the Bible, on topics such as hope, forgiveness, sacrifice to name a few. The reader learns to let go and to rely on God to help them through the struggle.
Such a well written and useful book, that I think every reader could use at some point in their lives or know someone who does.
October 3, 2018
Have you ever looked at a non-fiction book and thought to yourself, well that doesn't apply to me so why even bother reading it? That's kind of what I thought when I first looked at this book. I didn't need to begin again, my life is pretty much set where I'm at. WRONG. I had it all wrong to be honest with you. I was only looking at the obvious scenarios - work, family, big things. But here is what the book pointed out to me, you can even begin again in the little things, like forgiveness. Forgiveness has forever been a problem of mine, and I have to say out of all the chapters in this book, that one got to me the most.
The author does a good job of pointing things out, but not in a finger pointing way. More like a loving and encouraging way. I want to share my favorite quote from the whole book:
"Satan is an expert at crafting anvious thoughts out of unknown futures."
I never looked at it that way before. Yes, I know and understand that Satan is always trying to deceive us, play mind games with us, and attempts to make us doubt God. This statement really jumped out of the page and dug its claws right into my heart. In fact, I'm going to use that reminder in my daily life, whenever an awful thought creeps in my mind about the future.
Not every chapter may have been applicable to me personally today, but they could be at one point. My only critique is that I like space at the end of the chapters to write notes in. That way in the future I can look back and see my thoughts, my growth, and my goals. But aside from that I enjoyed reading the book and feel it's a good tool for those of us to need to start a fresh outlook on a topic. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The author does a good job of pointing things out, but not in a finger pointing way. More like a loving and encouraging way. I want to share my favorite quote from the whole book:
"Satan is an expert at crafting anvious thoughts out of unknown futures."
I never looked at it that way before. Yes, I know and understand that Satan is always trying to deceive us, play mind games with us, and attempts to make us doubt God. This statement really jumped out of the page and dug its claws right into my heart. In fact, I'm going to use that reminder in my daily life, whenever an awful thought creeps in my mind about the future.
Not every chapter may have been applicable to me personally today, but they could be at one point. My only critique is that I like space at the end of the chapters to write notes in. That way in the future I can look back and see my thoughts, my growth, and my goals. But aside from that I enjoyed reading the book and feel it's a good tool for those of us to need to start a fresh outlook on a topic. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 4, 2018
"Dare to Begin Again" by Rosalinda Rivera is another example of Don't Judge A Book By The Cover. I say this because when I first picked up the book I was thinking it was a love story. Well, I was partially right because it is about God's love for us and how He doesn't want us to stay struck, disappointed but wants us to begin to live and dream our dreams.
The author shares stories from her own life and others and Biblical characters like
“The man at the Pool of Bethesda was stuck in paralysis.
Naomi was stuck in bitterness.
The man in the graveyard was stuck with his demons.
Daniel was stuck in the lions’ den.
Joseph was stuck in a pit.
Jonah was stuck in a whale.
Moses’s mother was stuck in grief.
Jacob was stuck on a girl.
Hannah was stuck in sadness.
David was stuck in a cave.
The Samaritan woman at the wall was stuck in habit.
Lazarus was stuck in a tomb.
Gideon was stuck on a concept.
Peter was stuck in fear.
Mary was struck in loss.
Paul was stuck in prison."
She uses their stories to show us that God wants to "Begin Again".
I can honestly tell you this has been the most helpful nonfiction book that I have read in a long time and that I share my print books but guess what, I am keeping this book with me, it will have a permanent place in my purse so I can reread it when I feel stuck. I don't mark and underline in my books as a general rule but I did this one.
There is a chapter on forgiveness and hope, and release as well as other issues and each chapter ends with this
I D.A.R. E. which is Decide, Allow, Rise, Enjoy
This book is not technical and very easy to read and the inspirational ,down-to-earth advice the author gives to start life anew are very easy to follow. We just need to decide to start life again.
The author shares stories from her own life and others and Biblical characters like
“The man at the Pool of Bethesda was stuck in paralysis.
Naomi was stuck in bitterness.
The man in the graveyard was stuck with his demons.
Daniel was stuck in the lions’ den.
Joseph was stuck in a pit.
Jonah was stuck in a whale.
Moses’s mother was stuck in grief.
Jacob was stuck on a girl.
Hannah was stuck in sadness.
David was stuck in a cave.
The Samaritan woman at the wall was stuck in habit.
Lazarus was stuck in a tomb.
Gideon was stuck on a concept.
Peter was stuck in fear.
Mary was struck in loss.
Paul was stuck in prison."
She uses their stories to show us that God wants to "Begin Again".
I can honestly tell you this has been the most helpful nonfiction book that I have read in a long time and that I share my print books but guess what, I am keeping this book with me, it will have a permanent place in my purse so I can reread it when I feel stuck. I don't mark and underline in my books as a general rule but I did this one.
There is a chapter on forgiveness and hope, and release as well as other issues and each chapter ends with this
I D.A.R. E. which is Decide, Allow, Rise, Enjoy
This book is not technical and very easy to read and the inspirational ,down-to-earth advice the author gives to start life anew are very easy to follow. We just need to decide to start life again.
September 27, 2018
Here is a book that brings hope! Challenges me to be all that God wants me to be. Look ahead. The author brings in, early in the book, her thing called a DARE challenge. Dare to dream.
D - Decide to dig up your dreams and believe God's call on your life.
A - Allow God to work in your life what He has in store for you.
R - Rise above the labels, naysayers, lies, or anything holding you back. Stop letting others define you.
E - Enjoy dreaming again. Lay your hopes before God and tell Him your heart's desires.
(these are mostly quoted from the book...condensed just a bit) This is also just one of these...there is actually a DARE challenge given at the end of each chapter.
A verse that goes so well with this is Jeremiah 29:11.
She reminds us that this verse is meant for all of us. God really does have a plan for each one of our lives. And He is with us every step of the way.
It is so easy for me to forget that God already has it all figured out. I worry about my future. I let negativity overtake me.
And one more quote: "Allow God to turn the rock that is you into the sparkling diamond you were meant to be."
We can all claim this verse, if we just do: "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
D - Decide to dig up your dreams and believe God's call on your life.
A - Allow God to work in your life what He has in store for you.
R - Rise above the labels, naysayers, lies, or anything holding you back. Stop letting others define you.
E - Enjoy dreaming again. Lay your hopes before God and tell Him your heart's desires.
(these are mostly quoted from the book...condensed just a bit) This is also just one of these...there is actually a DARE challenge given at the end of each chapter.
A verse that goes so well with this is Jeremiah 29:11.
She reminds us that this verse is meant for all of us. God really does have a plan for each one of our lives. And He is with us every step of the way.
It is so easy for me to forget that God already has it all figured out. I worry about my future. I let negativity overtake me.
And one more quote: "Allow God to turn the rock that is you into the sparkling diamond you were meant to be."
We can all claim this verse, if we just do: "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
September 25, 2018
When I saw this book title, I knew that this was something that I wanted and needed in my life. I was not disappointed and gained so much from this inspiring book.
This book encourages us to live our life in the purpose which God intended. Despite past disappointments or hurts, we can move forward with determination. There are so many wonderful quotes in this book that got underlined but I think one of my favorites for me was "Don't let your past hurts, disappointments, and rejections hold you down.” (page 140). This was such a profound statement because I never thought about the past actually holding me down. How can we move forward if we're being held down?
I love how the author is so forthright and shares stories from her own life. You really feel she understands what it means to have hurts and disappointments yet she keeps moving toward the destiny that God has for her. She encourages us with a whole heart to do the same. She gives us practical guidance on how to move from our past to our exciting future.
I really encourage anyone who wants to live their life in a way that glorifies God and who doesn't want the past to define them to get this book. It's a great book and I intend to keep my copy handy for those days when I need a boost of encouragement! I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by Celebrate Lit Bloggers. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.
This book encourages us to live our life in the purpose which God intended. Despite past disappointments or hurts, we can move forward with determination. There are so many wonderful quotes in this book that got underlined but I think one of my favorites for me was "Don't let your past hurts, disappointments, and rejections hold you down.” (page 140). This was such a profound statement because I never thought about the past actually holding me down. How can we move forward if we're being held down?
I love how the author is so forthright and shares stories from her own life. You really feel she understands what it means to have hurts and disappointments yet she keeps moving toward the destiny that God has for her. She encourages us with a whole heart to do the same. She gives us practical guidance on how to move from our past to our exciting future.
I really encourage anyone who wants to live their life in a way that glorifies God and who doesn't want the past to define them to get this book. It's a great book and I intend to keep my copy handy for those days when I need a boost of encouragement! I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by Celebrate Lit Bloggers. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.
September 25, 2018
I appreciate this encouraging book. It is full of wonderful stories showing that God is in the business of restoring people and giving them a new life. I like Rivera's emphasis on having to believe that a new beginning is possible and then allowing God to act.
Rivera gives many encouraging suggestions. “Don't allow negative thoughts to enter your mind...” (32) “Move beyond your past...” (130) “Don't let your past hurts, disappointments, and rejections hold you down.” (140) What is missing, however, is a practical strategy to carry out those tasks.
This is a good book for people who need some encouragement to make a new beginning with God and can create their own plan for a journey through the process. People looking for a practical strategy to deal with the past and cultivate a trust in God for the future may have to look elsewhere.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Rivera gives many encouraging suggestions. “Don't allow negative thoughts to enter your mind...” (32) “Move beyond your past...” (130) “Don't let your past hurts, disappointments, and rejections hold you down.” (140) What is missing, however, is a practical strategy to carry out those tasks.
This is a good book for people who need some encouragement to make a new beginning with God and can create their own plan for a journey through the process. People looking for a practical strategy to deal with the past and cultivate a trust in God for the future may have to look elsewhere.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
September 29, 2018
Sixteen chapters show readers how to move from present pain and problems to start over, turning to God for healing and guidance. Biblical and personal examples illustrate the teaching as readers are instructed to dream again, hope again, listen again, and so on—each chapter title ends with the word “again.” Written by a woman who grew up in a ministry and who serves as director of New Life For Youth, the book is for anyone—not only women. It challenges readers with practical advice and offers steps to take to achieve a victorious life. Each chapter ends with specific D.A.R.E.s, following the letters, to Decide, Allow, Rise, and Enjoy pertinent to that topic. This short nonfiction book can help transform lives. As the subtitle says, “Let God Write You Best Future.” It’s easy to read, but harder to apply. It’s one you may wish to read several times or use as a group study. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
September 30, 2018
Here is a well-considered, compassionate, and down-to-earth resource for anyone earnestly interested in getting unstuck and genuinely moving forward in life. Written from a perspective of experience and understanding, the author does a fine job of combining life story, Biblical accounts and Biblically-based admonition. A highly-encouraging, inspiring, reality-checking, contemplative and, at times, gently demanding volume. Each chapter closes with practical application steps and questions to consider on the way to change and life improvement. I recommend this resource for those facing or in the midst of a life change as well as those who are considering the need for making changes. Amazingly, this book arrived at such a time in my own life!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
October 4, 2018
Throughout my life, I have had to begin again and have often found it a challenge. So when I had the opportunity to review this book, I was excited. After all, what Christian woman would not want God to write her best future? As I picked up this book and began reading, I found myself pulled in and was able to relate to everything Rosalinda Torres Rivera was writing. I know I personally want to learn from my past so my future is better.
Being a military wife of an active-duty servicemember since 2004 and the wife of a reservist from 1997 until he went full-time in 2004, we had many times where we had to start over. It is not always easy, but a book like this is one anyone facing change and wanting the future to be brighter will benefit find beneficial. I found the Scripture references meaningful and inspirational. So check this book out for yourself. I would love to hear what you think.
Being a military wife of an active-duty servicemember since 2004 and the wife of a reservist from 1997 until he went full-time in 2004, we had many times where we had to start over. It is not always easy, but a book like this is one anyone facing change and wanting the future to be brighter will benefit find beneficial. I found the Scripture references meaningful and inspirational. So check this book out for yourself. I would love to hear what you think.
September 30, 2018
Dare to begin again
A lot interesting stories in the book and examples of people had to begin again. That is life, no matter what your age at times you have to begin again. This book discusses different ways to begin again. At the end of each chapter the word Dare is taken and each letter has a word to go with it. I really liked that part. Also I liked that there was examples from the Bible and real life. This is a very good nonfiction book.
I received an complementary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
A lot interesting stories in the book and examples of people had to begin again. That is life, no matter what your age at times you have to begin again. This book discusses different ways to begin again. At the end of each chapter the word Dare is taken and each letter has a word to go with it. I really liked that part. Also I liked that there was examples from the Bible and real life. This is a very good nonfiction book.
I received an complementary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
October 9, 2018
Dare to read this book, that is my challenge to you. It is one that will make you think, feel, and get ready to become a better you. The chapters are easy to follow and make total sense. No, really I was able to say “yes” to every chapter because they made sense to me for my life. I have felt as though I have needed to start fresh, flip the pancake of life over. And this book has given me the tools to start doing that.Even if you are not looking to change your life completly around, this book is a great tool to help you make your life stronger. I recommend this book to all Christian women.
January 24, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Rosalinda's writing style. Engaging, simple and easy to read. Lots of practical steps to put into place. Powerful, awesome remainders of who God is, His promises and that we aren't alone in our discouragement. It's not too late! God hasn't finished writing our story! This is a book full of encouragement, yet real and heartfelt. Rosalinda has felt pain and discouragement. She writes from what she knows and where she's been.
October 5, 2018
This author really lets it all out in the parts of the book that are about her life. She shows that even if you have troubles you can begin again. Her stories and the Bible stories worked well together and are very uplifting. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
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