Reviewed by: Connor Salter, Professional Writing student at Taylor University, Upland, IN.

Introduction

Title: Grace in the Valley: Awakening to God’s Presence When He Feels Far Away

Author: Heath Adamson

Publisher: Baker Books (Baker Publishing Group)

Publication Date: October 22, 2018

Format: Paperback

Length: 208 pages

OVERVIEW

We all know what it looks like to see God working in the easy times, but what about during the hard times? Heath Adamson guides readers through different themes of Psalm 23, using personal stories and anecdotes to back up each theme and show how God heals and helps people even when traveling through “the valley of the shadow of death.”

Adamson makes each of his points by telling extended stories, frequently going into little details that don’t seem necessary. However, Adamson uses those stories to show convicting ideas, and the stories make those ideas feel more moving than they would otherwise. The rambling also reinforces Adamson’s point that while humans want straight answers for everything, God is usually more mysterious. In the end, this book requires some careful reading, but it provides some great insights into God’s character.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5 stars)

4 stars

Suggested Audience

Christians undergoing spiritual cries, Christians trying to overcome past trauma.

Christian Impact

Readers seeking easy answers told in simple language will find this book confusing, but those who take time to really read it will find it transforming.

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