Treasures of Hope: Discovering the Beautiful Truth Beneath My Painful Past by Gail Johnson
Sandra Ardoin @SandraArdoin
I read little non-fiction. Unless it’s the Bible, a blog of interest, or short print article about writing or gardening, my nose will be in a work of fiction. However, I recently read Treasures of Hope. In the spirit of truth and enlightenment, it was a friend’s debut book, so of course, I wanted to read it. And I’m glad I did.
The book is classified as a memoir, but I would put it in any category that includes encouragement, hope, praise, joy, spiritual freedom. It addresses so much more than one person’s story.
While the book comes from the destructive after-effects of Gail’s physical abuse as a child, she doesn’t dwell on the experience, but on what she learned as a result of it—the treasures God provided through his Word. It has something to say to everyone, something that applies to every life, whether touched by deep tragedy or not.
At one point or another, we all go through situations that affect our self-esteem and our faith. It doesn’t need to be what others would consider a horrific experience. It’s horrific to us. Things happen that result in fear, discouragement, anger, depression. Those emotions run deep enough to shape our outlook and existence. The author used the stories of women in the Bible to come to terms with her own issues and includes them to show the rest of us how we can do the same. We all need to discover who we are in God’s sight.
While I’ve never been in her situation, I did find takeaways for myself. The part that touched me most was the chapter on “Discovering the Courage Jewel.” I guess it’s because it’s my theme for this year. In it, she talks about Rahab’s efforts to help the Israelites conquer Jericho. It took courage on Rahab’s part to help the spies. How courageous am I? Am I willing to hand everything over to God? To trust His plan? Or will I decide it could be too costly?
Frankly, I don’t think I can put it more succinctly than Gail Johnson:
A jewel is a lesson learned—a treasure of hope.
The hotter the flame, the more billiant it shines.
Learn to dance in the fire, beloved.
There are review questions in the back, but the end of each chapter contains its own section of prayer and reflection, as well as recommended reading for further insight and suggestions for significant songs to listen to.
I have no affiliation with this book other than a mention in the acknowledgments. (Thank you, Gail.) But I highly recommend reading Treasures of Hope, especially if you’re struggling with a current or past issue that threatens to cripple your future.
Who is the Biblical figure you relate to most at this time in your life? What can you learn from their experience?
**An FYI, Gail Johnson will be on the blog next month to talk about courage.**
Sandra Ardoin
As an author of heartwarming historical and contemporary romance, Sandra Ardoin engages readers with page-turning stories of love and faith. Rarely out of reach of a book, she's also an armchair sports enthusiast, country music listener, and seldom says no to eating out.
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9 Comments
Gail Johnson
Thank you, Sandy. Your words succintly describe what I want women to take away from this book. Thank you for taking the time to read the story and write this lovely post. ❤
Sandra Ardoin
You’re welcome, Gail. I enjoyed reading it. 🙂
lelandandbecky
What I love most about this book, besides its wonderful nuggets of wisdom, is that as a reader, we can all relate to it because it can speak to areas in our own lives. Maybe I can relate most to Esther, who was born for “such a time as this”, knowing that God wants us to speak out & take action for the salvation of family & friends surrounding us. I know that I may be the only “Bible” they read. It’s easier to stay safe & not get as involved, and yet God continues to stretch me and show me what He can accomplish when I obey His nudging. Thank you! This book is truly a treasure and filled with hope!!
Sandra Ardoin
Exactly, Becky. It has something for everyone. Esther is one of my favorite Bible figures. Besides the absolute God message, it reads like a romantic suspense. 🙂
“It’s easier to stay safe & not get as involved….” That’s so true, but we are those lights that shouldn’t be hidden under a basket, especially in this day and age when so few people are looking for them. I went to my daughter’s church Sunday. It was FILLED with young people (20s and 30s). Such a heartening sight!
Thanks for leaving your thoughts!
beholdinghimministries
Thanks for the reminder to get this from Amazon. Bless you!
Sandra Ardoin
Glad to be of help! Thanks for visiting! 🙂
Tori Kayson
Can’t wait to dig into this one! Great review, as always, Sandy.
Sandra Ardoin
It’s very good…and you’re quoted. 🙂
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