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Between a Rock and a Grace Place: Divine Surprises in the Tight Spots of Life
Carol Kent and her husband, Gene, are now living what some would call a heartbreaking life---their son, Jason, a young man who initially had so much promise, is now living out a life sentence for murder in a maximum security prison. All their appeals have been exhausted at both the state and federal levels---humanly speaking, they have run out of options.
But despite their hopeless situation, Carol and her husband live a life full of grace. Kent reveals how life's problems become fruitful affliction where we discover the very best divine surprises, including peace, compassion, freedom, and adventure. Through the Kent's remarkable ongoing journey, Jason's riveting letters from behind bars, and true 'grace place' stories from the lives of others, Between a Rock and a Grace Place reveals that when seemingly insurmountable challenges crash into our lives, we can be transformed as we discover God at work in ways we never imagined. With vulnerable openness, irrepressible hope, restored joy, and a sense of humor, Carol Kent helps readers to find God's 'grace places' in the middle of their worst moments.
But despite their hopeless situation, Carol and her husband live a life full of grace. Kent reveals how life's problems become fruitful affliction where we discover the very best divine surprises, including peace, compassion, freedom, and adventure. Through the Kent's remarkable ongoing journey, Jason's riveting letters from behind bars, and true 'grace place' stories from the lives of others, Between a Rock and a Grace Place reveals that when seemingly insurmountable challenges crash into our lives, we can be transformed as we discover God at work in ways we never imagined. With vulnerable openness, irrepressible hope, restored joy, and a sense of humor, Carol Kent helps readers to find God's 'grace places' in the middle of their worst moments.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
47 people are currently reading
257 people want to read
About the author
Carol Kent
63 books21 followersCarol Kent is a bestselling author and an international public speaker—best known for being dynamic, humorous, encouraging, and biblical. She is a former radio show co-host and speaks internationally. She regularly appears on a wide variety of nationally syndicated radio and television broadcasts. She is the president of Speak Up Speaker Services, and the founder and director of the Speak Up Conference. She and her husband also founded Speak Up for Hope, a nonprofit organization that benefits inmates and their families. She holds a master’s degree in communication arts and a bachelor’s degree in speech education. She has taught speech and drama, and directed women’s ministries at a large mid-western church. Carol and her husband, Gene, make their home in Lakeland, Florida. Their only child, Jason, resides at Hardee Correctional Institution in Bowling Green, Florida, where he is serving a life sentence.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 11, 2012
After reading Carol Kent's "When I Lay My Issac Down" and "A New Kind of Normai," I knew I had to read " Betwwn A Rock and a Grace Place" as well. She puts into words the difficulties of watching her only child become incarcerated for life, the death of the dream she had for her child and her family, and learning how to come to a new normal in life and flourish there. A set of must reads if you are struggling with any big or small issues in life. Let me warn you, the first book is intense (I wept throught most of it), the second book gives hope, and the third book is the reality of it all and moving on with God's strength.
October 17, 2010
Every parent has their dreams for their children - to be happy, healthy, successful, etc. So what happens when a phone call shatters all those dreams? "Between A Rock and A Grace Place" is the real life story of lives torn apart when the author's son is sentenced to life in prison for murder. How Carol and Gene Kent respond to the pain and sorrow of their son's arrest, trial and imprisonment is told in this tear-jerking, hope-filled and faith-building book.
Carol shares not only their story, but letters from her son and how being in prison has made his faith stronger and helped him share God's grace with fellow inmates. She also shares the stories of others who have reached the bottom and battled back with the help of God's love and grace. They learned what God does when life throws pain and sorrow your way and you allow Him to be the healer of your broken heart, spirit and soul.
It is through Jason Kent's experiences of sharing the Word of God with his fellow inmates that the "Speak Up of Hope" prison ministry was founded by his parents. Their goal is "to give hope to the hopeless, encouragement and strength to weary, reparation to the marriages that have been torn apart by incarceration, and mental, spiritual, and physical stability to the children of prisoners." For more information on "Speak up for Hope", please visit them here.
You can learn more about Carol Kent by visiting her website here.
NOTE: A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by Zondervan in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services at www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com for more information about blog tour management services.
Carol shares not only their story, but letters from her son and how being in prison has made his faith stronger and helped him share God's grace with fellow inmates. She also shares the stories of others who have reached the bottom and battled back with the help of God's love and grace. They learned what God does when life throws pain and sorrow your way and you allow Him to be the healer of your broken heart, spirit and soul.
It is through Jason Kent's experiences of sharing the Word of God with his fellow inmates that the "Speak Up of Hope" prison ministry was founded by his parents. Their goal is "to give hope to the hopeless, encouragement and strength to weary, reparation to the marriages that have been torn apart by incarceration, and mental, spiritual, and physical stability to the children of prisoners." For more information on "Speak up for Hope", please visit them here.
You can learn more about Carol Kent by visiting her website here.
NOTE: A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by Zondervan in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services at www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com for more information about blog tour management services.
October 2, 2014
What a different perspective. A book about a family whose son is spending the rest of his life in prison. It talks about hardships and struggles from both the parents and the son. It was cool how God shinned through it all. It makes me look at inmates and their families in a different respect.
May 4, 2019
Deeply moving
Carol Kent takes you deep into her heart and shares experiences that will touch your spirit. Trust in a God of infinite wisdom, mercy and grace are more than platitudes for this family as they walk a path none of us would ever wish to embark on.
Carol Kent takes you deep into her heart and shares experiences that will touch your spirit. Trust in a God of infinite wisdom, mercy and grace are more than platitudes for this family as they walk a path none of us would ever wish to embark on.
March 17, 2024
This is the 3rd book in a series by Carol Kent. I have loved all 3.
November 14, 2020
Not the most uplifting thing to read. Has some great God stories in it.
March 18, 2025
A good book and makes you really think.
October 7, 2010
“Job encountered unthinkable circumstances—livestock stolen or destroyed, servants murdered, children killed, health disintegrated. His wife said, ‘Curse God and be done with it!’ Job’s response is shocking in light of his trials. He said, “we take the good days from God—why not also the bad days?’ When you encounter a major crisis, is your response more like Job’s or like Job’s wife, or somewhere in between?” – Carol Kent
Life in prison.
That’s what Carol’s son received at his arraignment. Jason shot the father of his step-children in a moment of rage. The father was a danger to his children and Jason forgot to rely on God. For Carol and Gene, their lives flipped upside down and became surreal. What follows is a story about heartbreak and redemption. The book holds stories of real people enduring real trials. It also tells Jason’s story—what he was like before he forgot to trust God and what happened while he endured a maximum security prison.
“Mom,” He writes. “I hate prison. But I refuse to waste prison. I choose to believe that God still has a purpose for me in spite of what I have done and the consequences I am living with. I am committed to looking for opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of the men around me. And my prayer is that these men, if they are eventually released, will never return here. I’m praying they will be good husbands and fathers and productive members of society when they leave this place. If that happens, my time here is not a waste.”
What follows is a heartbreaking testimony of Carol and Gene’s struggle to cope and how they have positively impacted other people. It is truly amazing what Jason is doing in prison and even more amazing what Carol and Gene are accomplishing by living transparent lives. These are people who praise God in the hardest of circumstances.
Jason models his behavior after the Apostle Paul. He can choose to live in misery allowing his circumstances to dictate his moods, or choose to find joy in this stark place. I love what Carol Kent says on page 100, “This week I called my mother and told her I was deeply disappointed over a set of circumstances that filled me with anxiety and anger. She listened with compassion, as always, but I wasn’t surprised by what she had to say, ‘Carol, have you thanked God yet? There’s power in intentionally giving Him praise. Taking that action will keep your heart and mind in the right place. If you choose thanksgiving over fear and resentment, you will find a hidden treasure, even in this situation.’”
Following every chapter is a set of questions with scriptural references. It is a great Bible study whether or not you are walking through a valley or struggling to climb a mountain. I didn’t know what to expect and I admit to procrastinating before reading this book. Jason takes responsibility for his crime and he doesn’t waste his time in prison. His reputation grows even outside the prison walls. You want to cry when the Clemency Committee turns him down. Jason has a good attitude. God has him in prison for a reason, and those reasons are becoming more and more obvious as I turned each page. You come to like Jason and you begin to understand prison a little better. Carol Kent does an excellent job of detailing her struggles and heartbreak while showing us that, “the happiness which brings enduring worth to life is not the superficial happiness that is dependent on circumstances. It is the happiness and contentment that fills the soul even in the midst of the most distressing circumstances and the most bitter environment. It is the kind of happiness that grins when things go wrong and smiles through the tears (Dr. Billy Graham).”
A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by Zondervan in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services at www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com for more information about blog tour management services. You can also go to http://www.thehahnhuntinglodge.com to view the blog tour schedule.
Life in prison.
That’s what Carol’s son received at his arraignment. Jason shot the father of his step-children in a moment of rage. The father was a danger to his children and Jason forgot to rely on God. For Carol and Gene, their lives flipped upside down and became surreal. What follows is a story about heartbreak and redemption. The book holds stories of real people enduring real trials. It also tells Jason’s story—what he was like before he forgot to trust God and what happened while he endured a maximum security prison.
“Mom,” He writes. “I hate prison. But I refuse to waste prison. I choose to believe that God still has a purpose for me in spite of what I have done and the consequences I am living with. I am committed to looking for opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of the men around me. And my prayer is that these men, if they are eventually released, will never return here. I’m praying they will be good husbands and fathers and productive members of society when they leave this place. If that happens, my time here is not a waste.”
What follows is a heartbreaking testimony of Carol and Gene’s struggle to cope and how they have positively impacted other people. It is truly amazing what Jason is doing in prison and even more amazing what Carol and Gene are accomplishing by living transparent lives. These are people who praise God in the hardest of circumstances.
Jason models his behavior after the Apostle Paul. He can choose to live in misery allowing his circumstances to dictate his moods, or choose to find joy in this stark place. I love what Carol Kent says on page 100, “This week I called my mother and told her I was deeply disappointed over a set of circumstances that filled me with anxiety and anger. She listened with compassion, as always, but I wasn’t surprised by what she had to say, ‘Carol, have you thanked God yet? There’s power in intentionally giving Him praise. Taking that action will keep your heart and mind in the right place. If you choose thanksgiving over fear and resentment, you will find a hidden treasure, even in this situation.’”
Following every chapter is a set of questions with scriptural references. It is a great Bible study whether or not you are walking through a valley or struggling to climb a mountain. I didn’t know what to expect and I admit to procrastinating before reading this book. Jason takes responsibility for his crime and he doesn’t waste his time in prison. His reputation grows even outside the prison walls. You want to cry when the Clemency Committee turns him down. Jason has a good attitude. God has him in prison for a reason, and those reasons are becoming more and more obvious as I turned each page. You come to like Jason and you begin to understand prison a little better. Carol Kent does an excellent job of detailing her struggles and heartbreak while showing us that, “the happiness which brings enduring worth to life is not the superficial happiness that is dependent on circumstances. It is the happiness and contentment that fills the soul even in the midst of the most distressing circumstances and the most bitter environment. It is the kind of happiness that grins when things go wrong and smiles through the tears (Dr. Billy Graham).”
A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by Zondervan in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services at www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com for more information about blog tour management services. You can also go to http://www.thehahnhuntinglodge.com to view the blog tour schedule.
July 8, 2015
I’m so thankful to have received a review copy of such an inspiring novel. The reader can get the essence of this heart warming, non-fiction book by reading the dedication Carol wrote to her parents.
“Thank you for consistently pressing into the rock and reminding me to find the place off safety and grace in the middle of my darkest hours.”
I appreciated this story filled with hope and joy found in the most unlikely places. Carol Kent not only chares her story of how her and her husband are finding that in their weakness God is strong, but that he also provides the peace that passes all understanding in the middle of the storms of life. Carol and her husband don’t claim to have it all together, nor do they tell you how life becomes easier after your son has been in prison for life for nine years.
Carol says, “As our family is living out a realty far different from what we once dreamed, God has repeatedly reminded us of his favor in the middle of difficulties. There is hope and joy in the darkness…..we could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only join the world…Joy is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ…Joy is experiencing God’s peace in the middle of impossible circumstances and sensing his care when life is anything but fun!”
Life can be tough and taking one day at a time is all we can do. Just like Paul who prayed for the thorn to be taken from his side. Carol talks about Paul praising God in prison under the most horrible conditions and moving on with the thorn in his side God chose not to remove.
Carol Kent along with others share their stories where God showed in the most unexpected ways. These stories were ones that provided hope and inspiration in the most impossible of situations!
Some of the chapter names are Grace in the hardest of places, Angels in Disguise, Longing for a Better Life, The Secret Power of Gratitude, Unexpected Kindness, Why do you Weep? And Dwelling in the Grace Place.
No matter what you face in life dwelling in the grace place is where you want to be with your heavenly father. This book is not a how to book, follow steps one, two and three and God will do this. Not it’s a book filled with real people walking out their faith in the middle of the storm, relying on God to be there like He said he would.
I know that I’ll be reading this book over and over again. I want to go back and really spend sometime in the back of each chapter where Carol provides questions and scriptures to meditate on. I just can’t say enough great things about this powerfully moving, hopeful book. It’s a must read for the hurting and for those people who want to be Jesus with skin on to the people around them.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.psalm516.blogspot.com
“Thank you for consistently pressing into the rock and reminding me to find the place off safety and grace in the middle of my darkest hours.”
I appreciated this story filled with hope and joy found in the most unlikely places. Carol Kent not only chares her story of how her and her husband are finding that in their weakness God is strong, but that he also provides the peace that passes all understanding in the middle of the storms of life. Carol and her husband don’t claim to have it all together, nor do they tell you how life becomes easier after your son has been in prison for life for nine years.
Carol says, “As our family is living out a realty far different from what we once dreamed, God has repeatedly reminded us of his favor in the middle of difficulties. There is hope and joy in the darkness…..we could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only join the world…Joy is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ…Joy is experiencing God’s peace in the middle of impossible circumstances and sensing his care when life is anything but fun!”
Life can be tough and taking one day at a time is all we can do. Just like Paul who prayed for the thorn to be taken from his side. Carol talks about Paul praising God in prison under the most horrible conditions and moving on with the thorn in his side God chose not to remove.
Carol Kent along with others share their stories where God showed in the most unexpected ways. These stories were ones that provided hope and inspiration in the most impossible of situations!
Some of the chapter names are Grace in the hardest of places, Angels in Disguise, Longing for a Better Life, The Secret Power of Gratitude, Unexpected Kindness, Why do you Weep? And Dwelling in the Grace Place.
No matter what you face in life dwelling in the grace place is where you want to be with your heavenly father. This book is not a how to book, follow steps one, two and three and God will do this. Not it’s a book filled with real people walking out their faith in the middle of the storm, relying on God to be there like He said he would.
I know that I’ll be reading this book over and over again. I want to go back and really spend sometime in the back of each chapter where Carol provides questions and scriptures to meditate on. I just can’t say enough great things about this powerfully moving, hopeful book. It’s a must read for the hurting and for those people who want to be Jesus with skin on to the people around them.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.psalm516.blogspot.com
November 11, 2010
Between a Rock and a Grace Place takes the reader into the life of one family who has faced and still faces the consequences of losing a beloved son. It is not the way you might think. Jason Kent, author Carol Kent's only child, is locked away for life with no chance of parole in Hardee Correctional Institution in Bowling Green for murder. Carol writes with compassion, emotion, and at times painful honesty how their lives have been affected and impacted by this crime perpetrated by her son.
She makes no excuses for his actions, which I think is commendable, but she shows that even in the midst of this, God can bring about restoration and healing, that "divine surprises" can and do occur "in the tight spots of life".
Brilliantly poignant, the letters from Jason to his mother from prison are heart-stirring and sincere. Carol includes them in the book to show how God is working in the life of Jason, to allow some good to come out of this terrible tragedy that has shattered the lives of not only their family, but the victim's family who lost a loved one because of Jason's actions.
For me, it took me inside a world I had, up until now, chosen to ignore or dismiss...the world of inmates behind bars. "Lifers" as they are called, outcast from society, banished for their crimes, yet God loves each and every one of them and many are coming to love the Lord as their personal Savior, largely through the work of Jason, one of their fellow-inmates.
Written from a mother's perspective, Carol writes how she and her husband are dealing with Jason in prison. She shares how she at times sees other families gathered at Christmas and birthdays and the realization devastates her that she may never experience that with Jason again in her lifetime. I thought that was particularly impacting.
Carol shares stories of others who have faced "tight spots", and have triumphed over their grief and loss by drawing close to God and allowing His miraculous work to heal them. As Carol threads throughout her book stories and letters from other families and individuals who are coming to terms with their own losses,the reader is drawn into their lives by reading those letters. I thought that gave the book poignant uniqueness.
This is not a "feel good" book per se. Carol is clear in saying that there may not be a happy ending for Jason in this lifetime. He may never know freedom again but instead live his life forever incarcerated for his crime. Yet, the family is finding contentment (with God's strength) to accept this and discover God's peace and grace.
This is a book that encourages all of us who face challenges, who hurt, who struggle, to know that even in the midst of those times, God still loves and cares for us and He is always in control.
She makes no excuses for his actions, which I think is commendable, but she shows that even in the midst of this, God can bring about restoration and healing, that "divine surprises" can and do occur "in the tight spots of life".
Brilliantly poignant, the letters from Jason to his mother from prison are heart-stirring and sincere. Carol includes them in the book to show how God is working in the life of Jason, to allow some good to come out of this terrible tragedy that has shattered the lives of not only their family, but the victim's family who lost a loved one because of Jason's actions.
For me, it took me inside a world I had, up until now, chosen to ignore or dismiss...the world of inmates behind bars. "Lifers" as they are called, outcast from society, banished for their crimes, yet God loves each and every one of them and many are coming to love the Lord as their personal Savior, largely through the work of Jason, one of their fellow-inmates.
Written from a mother's perspective, Carol writes how she and her husband are dealing with Jason in prison. She shares how she at times sees other families gathered at Christmas and birthdays and the realization devastates her that she may never experience that with Jason again in her lifetime. I thought that was particularly impacting.
Carol shares stories of others who have faced "tight spots", and have triumphed over their grief and loss by drawing close to God and allowing His miraculous work to heal them. As Carol threads throughout her book stories and letters from other families and individuals who are coming to terms with their own losses,the reader is drawn into their lives by reading those letters. I thought that gave the book poignant uniqueness.
This is not a "feel good" book per se. Carol is clear in saying that there may not be a happy ending for Jason in this lifetime. He may never know freedom again but instead live his life forever incarcerated for his crime. Yet, the family is finding contentment (with God's strength) to accept this and discover God's peace and grace.
This is a book that encourages all of us who face challenges, who hurt, who struggle, to know that even in the midst of those times, God still loves and cares for us and He is always in control.
December 21, 2014
Between a Rock and a Grace Place
By: Carol Kent
Publisher: Zondervan
Carol Kent writes from a mother’s point of view, the pain of having a child incarcerated for killing another person. She opens her heart and bears her soul regarding how this event changed not only their lives but the lives of so many people. She openly talks about their journey from the first phone call to the words of “life without the possibility of parole” and beyond.
Although this is about their journey of pain and hurt it is also about healing through God’s Word and His promises.
I not only read this book, but also watched the videos that coincide with the Bible Study Lessons. On several occasions I found myself being able to identify with some points in their journey and the journeys of others in the book. I too suffer from anxiety and panic attacks and have always been taught to give in to those feelings are not of God. It is true He is not the author of those feelings and for me they come when I have lost sight of God’s purpose for my life. Through MS Kent’s honesty she has shown me that no matter how devote a Christian you may be, those feelings still creep in. It is not about them being there, it is about how we let God guide us in dealing with them. This book and study made me realize I am not alone. I recently lost my father to cancer, and although I know without a doubt, he is with the Lord and no longer suffering, I couldn’t believe how I fell apart. I kept telling myself all the old clichés of how, “I wouldn’t want him to suffer”, “he will always be with me in my heart”, “cherish the memories” and “you will see him again someday”. None of those helped and I began to seriously doubt my salvation, because Christians are all about hope and grace…we are supposed to be able to deal with the death of a loved one…certainly better than I did. Upon reading the segment in the book, “Woody’s Homecoming”, Diana’s story, I suddenly realized I did nothing wrong. Her story paralleled mine so closely, I was amazed. I cried so hard I could hardly see to read, but through her story and the encouragement of MS Kent, I am finally beginning to heal.
This study is about taking baby-steps in putting God first, even in the tough times. Although this study is about MS Kent’s journey, I would recommend it if you find your world turned upside down or if you just want a closer relationship with God and don’t know where to start. I definitely feel it will leave a lasting impression on your life…I know it has mine.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book, Video and Lesson Guide by the publisher, Zondervan, for review. I was not required to write a favorable review nor was I compensated for my review. The opinions in this review are my own.
By: Carol Kent
Publisher: Zondervan
Carol Kent writes from a mother’s point of view, the pain of having a child incarcerated for killing another person. She opens her heart and bears her soul regarding how this event changed not only their lives but the lives of so many people. She openly talks about their journey from the first phone call to the words of “life without the possibility of parole” and beyond.
Although this is about their journey of pain and hurt it is also about healing through God’s Word and His promises.
I not only read this book, but also watched the videos that coincide with the Bible Study Lessons. On several occasions I found myself being able to identify with some points in their journey and the journeys of others in the book. I too suffer from anxiety and panic attacks and have always been taught to give in to those feelings are not of God. It is true He is not the author of those feelings and for me they come when I have lost sight of God’s purpose for my life. Through MS Kent’s honesty she has shown me that no matter how devote a Christian you may be, those feelings still creep in. It is not about them being there, it is about how we let God guide us in dealing with them. This book and study made me realize I am not alone. I recently lost my father to cancer, and although I know without a doubt, he is with the Lord and no longer suffering, I couldn’t believe how I fell apart. I kept telling myself all the old clichés of how, “I wouldn’t want him to suffer”, “he will always be with me in my heart”, “cherish the memories” and “you will see him again someday”. None of those helped and I began to seriously doubt my salvation, because Christians are all about hope and grace…we are supposed to be able to deal with the death of a loved one…certainly better than I did. Upon reading the segment in the book, “Woody’s Homecoming”, Diana’s story, I suddenly realized I did nothing wrong. Her story paralleled mine so closely, I was amazed. I cried so hard I could hardly see to read, but through her story and the encouragement of MS Kent, I am finally beginning to heal.
This study is about taking baby-steps in putting God first, even in the tough times. Although this study is about MS Kent’s journey, I would recommend it if you find your world turned upside down or if you just want a closer relationship with God and don’t know where to start. I definitely feel it will leave a lasting impression on your life…I know it has mine.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book, Video and Lesson Guide by the publisher, Zondervan, for review. I was not required to write a favorable review nor was I compensated for my review. The opinions in this review are my own.
September 3, 2011
Between a Rock and a Grace Place: Divine Surprises in the Tight Spots of Life
by Carol Kent,
Zondervan, 2010
After reading Kent's earlier books, When I Lay My Isaac Down and A New Kind of Normal, I was pleasantly surprised to discover the author's latest book on my (public) library's bookshelves.
Like the previous two books, this one deals with the subject of life after, and in the midst of, difficulty or tragedy. Kent knows her subject well. Her son, Jason, was incarcerated for life without the possibility of parole after killing his wife's ex-husband in 1999. An only child, raised in a good home with caring Christian parents, Jason was the last person anyone expected to commit murder and wind up a custodian of the prison system. As you can imagine, the outcome was devastating - for Jason, his parents, his new wife and her children, and for the fiancee and family of the murder victim.
While the new normal is not what anyone would have wished for Jason or anyone intimately connected with him through his crime, his mother points out that unexpected blessings have come out of his incarceration, not least of which is strengthened faith.
Peppered with stories of other people who have dealt with a variety of challenges and experienced "divine surprises in the tight spots of life," this is an excellent read for anyone, but especially for those who are going through struggles of their own.
by Carol Kent,
Zondervan, 2010
After reading Kent's earlier books, When I Lay My Isaac Down and A New Kind of Normal, I was pleasantly surprised to discover the author's latest book on my (public) library's bookshelves.
Like the previous two books, this one deals with the subject of life after, and in the midst of, difficulty or tragedy. Kent knows her subject well. Her son, Jason, was incarcerated for life without the possibility of parole after killing his wife's ex-husband in 1999. An only child, raised in a good home with caring Christian parents, Jason was the last person anyone expected to commit murder and wind up a custodian of the prison system. As you can imagine, the outcome was devastating - for Jason, his parents, his new wife and her children, and for the fiancee and family of the murder victim.
While the new normal is not what anyone would have wished for Jason or anyone intimately connected with him through his crime, his mother points out that unexpected blessings have come out of his incarceration, not least of which is strengthened faith.
Peppered with stories of other people who have dealt with a variety of challenges and experienced "divine surprises in the tight spots of life," this is an excellent read for anyone, but especially for those who are going through struggles of their own.
June 26, 2013
In reading STORIES OF FAITH AND COURAGE FROM PRISON by CONNIE CAMERON and JEFF PECK, I was lead to MS KENT’S book, BETWEEN A ROCK AND A GRACE PLACE. I hadn’t expected to get as much from it as I did. Not only are you given a glimpse into the life of the Kent’s, but stories from others that have gone through trials in their lives.
BETWEEN A ROCK AND A GRACE PLACE by CAROL KENT is not just for those with a loved one that’s incarcerated. It’s for those that volunteer in the ministry, work in the system, or have experienced some really tough times in their lives.
Contents:
Chapter 1: Grace in the Hardest of Places, Surprised by Faith
Chapter 2: Angels in Disguise, Surprised by Mercy
Chapter 3: Longing for a Better Life, Surprised by Contentment
Chapter 4: The Secret Power of Gratitude, Surprised by Thanksgiving
Chapter 5: Unexpected Kindness, Surprised by Favor
Chapter 6: Why Do You Weep? Surprised by Joy
Chapter 7: A Different Kind of Liberty, Surprised by Freedom
Chapter 8: Dwelling in the Grace Place, Surprised by Adventure
Epilogue: The Ultimate Surprise
I included the contents because it really speaks of what’s between the pages. Trust, compassion, faith, hope, joy, and love.
We all go through trials and tribulations at one time or another in our lives. But what separates us is how we handle them, along with what we take away from it. With God’s love and amazing grace, we can get through anything He places in our path.
BETWEEN A ROCK AND A GRACE PLACE by CAROL KENT is not just for those with a loved one that’s incarcerated. It’s for those that volunteer in the ministry, work in the system, or have experienced some really tough times in their lives.
Contents:
Chapter 1: Grace in the Hardest of Places, Surprised by Faith
Chapter 2: Angels in Disguise, Surprised by Mercy
Chapter 3: Longing for a Better Life, Surprised by Contentment
Chapter 4: The Secret Power of Gratitude, Surprised by Thanksgiving
Chapter 5: Unexpected Kindness, Surprised by Favor
Chapter 6: Why Do You Weep? Surprised by Joy
Chapter 7: A Different Kind of Liberty, Surprised by Freedom
Chapter 8: Dwelling in the Grace Place, Surprised by Adventure
Epilogue: The Ultimate Surprise
I included the contents because it really speaks of what’s between the pages. Trust, compassion, faith, hope, joy, and love.
We all go through trials and tribulations at one time or another in our lives. But what separates us is how we handle them, along with what we take away from it. With God’s love and amazing grace, we can get through anything He places in our path.
February 1, 2012
I did not finish this book because it was far too depressing. The woman in the book son is in prison for murder and the book revolves around him and how they find grace under the current situation. I feel like she dwells way too much on it. She does not move on. I get that it is her son and all but life needs to go on. I saw her hope but then when I turned the page another story of pain filled the page.
When I want to be encouraged by a book I don't want to read countless stories of pain with a brief amount of hope at the end of the story.
This to shall pass has been my motto for years. She just kept going back to her son and how hard their lives are because of it. It was way too depressing for me. Perhaps people may like it but I want to be on the other side of my pain not dwelling on it all the time.
I don't know maybe I missed the point of the book. God takes care of me all the time even when I don't know I need taking care of. It's up to me to dwell on the bad stuff or look toward Him for the good stuff. The tone of this book for me was look my life sucks and sometimes God shows me grace.
It just was not for me.
When I want to be encouraged by a book I don't want to read countless stories of pain with a brief amount of hope at the end of the story.
This to shall pass has been my motto for years. She just kept going back to her son and how hard their lives are because of it. It was way too depressing for me. Perhaps people may like it but I want to be on the other side of my pain not dwelling on it all the time.
I don't know maybe I missed the point of the book. God takes care of me all the time even when I don't know I need taking care of. It's up to me to dwell on the bad stuff or look toward Him for the good stuff. The tone of this book for me was look my life sucks and sometimes God shows me grace.
It just was not for me.
May 31, 2011
Because I've read Kent's previous two books related to their son's having committed murder and being sentenced to life in prison, I knew I wanted to read this volume upon its publication. I love the title! God does show up in the "tight spots of life"--disappointment, disease, divorce, despair, death--providing grace, love, acceptance, courage, peace, strength, forgiveness, among other things. Kent writes with transparency about her own struggles--and then includes stories from others to whom God has revealed Himself. At the end of each chapter, Kent provides questions to personal study and application. Excellent!
July 8, 2012
interesting from a "Christian's" view. Sadly i believe the authors experience(s) isnt the norm but rather the exception of how "friends" and "christian's" react to anothers hardship. Faith aside, it justified my feelings related to personal trying times. i would recommend this book to those who are dealing with unhappy circumstances and also to those "church-goers" who feel they are following "G-DS" way.
August 7, 2012
Great book filled with raw emotion from a family that bares their soul concerning their real life experience. This book makes you realize you are not alone when facing difficult situations in life. There are letters from the author's son included in the book and there are other real life stories included from other people that make your realize only the grace of God will get you through certain things.
February 7, 2015
Encouraging gut level wisdom to keep you going when the going gets tough. Based on Romans 9:33 "Careful! I've put a huge stone on the road to Mount Zion, a stone you can't get around. But the stone is me! If you're looking for me, you'll find me on the way, not in the way." (The Message) Between A Rock and a Grace Place, tells many stories of people who by pressing into the Rock, have found grace for difficulties.
February 13, 2014
It's easy for anyone of us to live in a grace place. But when we were thrown into a rocky place, how are we going to live on a stony life. In the book Carol Kent shared her experiences through the darkness passage.
December 29, 2012
My small group used this book along with a video for our fall study. When going through hard times, it is sometimes hard to find God. Carol Kent has had her world turned upside down and shares how to find Him even in the worst of times.
August 30, 2015
If you have lost hope this is the book to read. This book indicates how all we have different journeys in this world,things may happen but we should always remember that we are not in control. Good book.
July 9, 2012
Another wonderful but heart breaking book by Carol Kent
June 16, 2015
A great non-fiction book on how to deal with difficult circumstances.
December 9, 2015
Excellent
This book is for anyone going through a tough time who needs inspiration and hope. Great read. Carol really takes you through how to find grace in the hard places
This book is for anyone going through a tough time who needs inspiration and hope. Great read. Carol really takes you through how to find grace in the hard places
November 19, 2010
As always, Carol is authentic and I can't wait to journey through the book with her.
March 16, 2011
Very inspiring, faith put to the test.
July 15, 2012
Five stars. Carol always speaks to my heart. Loved this book.
April 27, 2017
Awesome read
No matter how hard life can get, Mrs. Kent reveals that with faith in a loving God, you can make it. Not overnight success, just take life one step at a time with the Savior. He really does bind the wounds, and uses them to help us in our walk. Well written, held my attention, and helped me with a situation in my family. Thank you for this breath of fresh air!
No matter how hard life can get, Mrs. Kent reveals that with faith in a loving God, you can make it. Not overnight success, just take life one step at a time with the Savior. He really does bind the wounds, and uses them to help us in our walk. Well written, held my attention, and helped me with a situation in my family. Thank you for this breath of fresh air!
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