Also by this author: Memorizing Scripture: The Basics, Blessings, and Benefits of Meditating on God's Word
Published by Crossway Books on June 2, 2020
Genres: Non-Fiction, Christian Life, Theology
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads
What does the Christian life look like when life is unpredictable, hard, or just plain ordinary? We live in an instant-gratification world, where results are quickly measured and words like discipline and perseverance evoke thoughts of legalism or asceticism. But Everyday Faithfulness explores what daily perseverance in Christ looks like during various seasons when spiritual growth seems especially difficult. Working through the unique challenges that come with seasons of waiting, caretaking, suffering, worry, spiritual dryness, and more, this book delves into practical ways to build habits into everyday life that will aid in spiritual growth throughout a lifetime. Each chapter closes with a real-life example of a woman whose life of regular, everyday faithfulness will encourage readers to remain steadfast in theirs.
Glenna Marshall opens with an analogy about her failed garden, explaining that just like her withered tomatoes, our spiritual lives require constant cultivation in order to flourish. She challenges women to seek “everyday faithfulness,” explaining that spiritual disciplines are essential to our lives, not a form of legalism. God accepts us based on Christ’s work on our behalf, not our own track record, but if we keep pushing off spiritual disciplines to someday in the future when we have more time, we will never be able to grow.
Everyday Faithfulness: The Beauty of Ordinary Perseverance in a Demanding World is one of the best books about the Christian walk that I have read in a long time. Marshall is extremely practical, and each chapter addresses a different challenge, such as trying to be faithful in the midst of hectic schedules, suffering, spiritual dryness, and periods of waiting. My favorite chapter is the one about dealing with a “scrupulous conscience” and struggling to feel assured of salvation, because this was a huge issue for me as a teenager. Marshall addresses the topic extremely well, and I appreciate her sensitivity and grace throughout this book.
This book is great for new and experienced believers of all ages. Marshall shares stories from faithful women she knows and addresses specific life constraints that women commonly experience as caregivers, but there is nothing exclusively feminine about this book, and men can read and benefit from it as well. I would also recommend it to teenagers, because I know that I would have found it extremely helpful when I was learning how to make my faith my own. I highly recommend this solid, practical, and grace-filled guide to anyone who is looking for help and encouragement to follow Jesus in everyday life.
