IT’S ALL ABOUT THE LIGHT : How to Find God in Tough Times
Author: Joanna Watson (Foreword by J.John)
Published by: Malcom Down , 29th May 2026
ISBN: 978-1917455572755 (Paperback)
RRP: £10.99/£11.99
THE BLURB (extract)
You know what it’s like: the unexpected phone call, the unwelcome diagnosis, the relationship at breaking point, or finances under strain. Life is full of challenges. When you face tough times, God longs to dispel your darkness. But will you invite him to break in? Will you make wise choices? In It’s All About the Light, Joanna draws on learning from the modern-day miracle stories contained in her first book, Light Through the Cracks, to guide you through six life-changing choices for finding God when we face tough times.
MY REVIEW
Anyone who has lived through hard times, or who has watched a loved one suffer, will find help, comfort and guidance in the pages of this wonderful book.
It’s all about the Light: how to find God in tough times is a meaty, truth-filled, deep-dive into scripture on the subject of inviting God into our places of suffering. God wants to meet us in those times, to be the Light in our darkness. Sometimes He has a miracle for us, or a redemptive ending. Always He has strength, comfort and peace on offer.
Joanna has sub-tiled her book, ‘Six life-changing choices’. This book isn’t a formula for miracles, more an instruction manual to help us navigate our tough times. It contains truths that can bring hope, build faith for the impossible, and provide a blueprint for victorious Kingdom living. Each chapter in the book focuses on one of these six themes– Listen (for God’s voice), Lean in (on others), Let go (of spiritual hindrances), Solidify (be aware of the spiritual battle), Glorify (God, no matter what), Testify (of what God has done). Each point is carefully explained and backed up with stories from the Gospels, beautifully retold in a really relatable way.
Joanna has taken inspiration from the true-life stories recorded in her first book, Light Through the Cracks, and used extracts from these stories to illustrate each point. It is not necessary to read the first book to benefit from the message of this one, but I would recommend it if possible. It is an incredible account of ten true stories, each a completely different situation, where God broke in in incredible ways.
It’s All About the Light is an immensely practical book, with places to pause and reflect, answer probing questions, and respond to the truth with action. It has been designed thoughtfully to be ideal for both individual and group use. I can highly recommend it as a treasure trove of godly wisdom, a place of refuge, and a call to be ready to stand in faith.
It’s All About the Light will be published by Malcolm Down on 29th May, 2026. It is available in both paperback and kindle edition.
Signed copies are available now direct from the author’s website, and after publication where all good books are sold.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joanna Watson is an inspirational Christian author and speaker, with a passion to see ordinary people encountering God in extraordinary ways. In a world filled with darkness, she seeks to share stories and reflections that show how God’s light, hope and miraculous power break in through the cracks.
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. She has also written two non-fiction devotionals. More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
We regularly have our grandchildren over. One day a week we pick them up from school, keep them through dinner time, bath them, and then take them back to be put to bed at home. We love it, however exhausting it can be. They seem to enjoy spending that time at our house, with us, too.
Last week they (aged 5 and 3 years) weren’t playing together very nicely. Both of them, at some point, were less than well behaved. There were tears. In exasperation I asked, ‘Why are you both being so naughty today?’
The reply, from the 5-year-old, was swift.
‘Because we are both tired.’
Inwardly I smiled, as I thought about how quickly children pick up on what adults say about them, or to them. He wasn’t wrong. They were both tired after a day of school. We know that when they are tired, they are less able to regulate their emotions, or their behaviour.
My reply, however, has stayed with me since.
‘Well, Nanna is tired, and she isn’t being naughty!’
When I am tired…
Later, having had time to think about it, I realised that in fact I too can be less than well behaved when I am tired. It is when I am tired that I don’t react well, say things that are unthinking, or just plain unkind. Usually to the ones I love most. When I am tired, I am more likely to look for comfort in things that don’t actually do me any good. I might watch something on the TV, or read something online, that is escapist, but not helpful. When I am tired, I forget how much I have to be grateful for, and focus on the negatives in my life. When I am tired… I make excuses for myself.
I was talking to God about this because I don’t like it. I don’t like letting myself down, or letting Him down, or letting others down, even when I am tired. I am not a perfect person by any means, but I do know the difference between right and wrong, and usually I can make good choices. I also know that He is doing a sanctifying work in me. He is good at pointing out things that need to change in my character and giving me the grace to repent and do better. I want to be the person He is making me to be, even when I am tired!
An explanation but not an excuse…
What He showed me is that being tired is not actually an acceptable excuse for saying or doing things that hurt others or myself. It wasn’t an excuse for my grandchildren. It was an explanation. The two things are different. Being tired might explain why behaviour is not optimal, but it isn’t an excuse. At least it shouldn’t be.
My grandchildren also know the difference between right and wrong. They are perceptive enough to know when their behaviour is not great. Usually, they are good at doing and saying the right things, but they are still young. They still have much to learn about what can be excused, due to tiredness or any other stressors, and what cannot be. We can make allowances for their immaturity.
I am a lot more mature than they. In years anyway! I have had a lifetime of walking with Jesus, and He has done some beautiful work in refining my character over the years. I know what His standards are, as set out in His Word, and I try to live by them, with His help. Yet still I can slip up, particularly when overtired or stressed.
There is still work to be done…
I heard Him whisper to my soul.
Beloved, I know your struggles and your disappointment with yourself. I know how tiredness can affect you, and I understand. I just ask you to be aware of this, of how you can slip back into unhealthy ways, when you are tired. Not to use tiredness as an excuse, but see it for what it is, a weakening of your defences, an opening for the flesh or the enemy to creep in.
I love you, just as you still love your grandchildren, even when they don’t behave as well as you know they can. You can see their bad behaviour and understand the reasons for it. You see them as needing to grow and develop in their awareness of what is and isn’t acceptable. I am not done with you, my child. When tiredness causes you to slip up, that is revealing the areas of your heart where there is still some refining work to be done. Don’t become disheartened, just bring those things to Me and we can work on them together.
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. She has also written two non-fiction devotionals. More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
This blog is a little bit different for me. Usually you get my thoughts, things God has revealed to me, or a book review. But today I am going to extend an invitation to you. An invitation to engage in a year long walk with Jesus, through the gospels, one day at a time. I started ‘Walking with Jesus’ myself at the start of this year. Already it has blessed me, encouraged me, and drawn me closer to Jesus.
My friend Rachel Yarworth, who is a writer, writing coach and lover of Jesus, has done something unique, and brave, and made it available for everyone, you included. I am going to leave it to Rachel to explain more:
Rachel, can you tell us what ‘Walking with Jesus’ actually is?
‘Walking with Jesus’ is a project based on Substack, where we follow a Bible-reading plan that goes through the four Gospels over the course of a year, taking time to hear God speaking to us through His Word, and getting to know Jesus better through what He said and did. Unlike many Bible-reading plans, a key element is the community chat room where all are invited to share what God has said, for mutual encouragement and growth.
Who is it for?
Really, it’s for anyone, from people who are just interested in getting to know Jesus, to people who have been Christians for many years, and are maybe looking to get back to the beautiful basics of faith as Jesus taught.
Why Substack and not a devotional book?
I did initially consider making it into a book, as that is what I am used to, but a wise and lovely publisher friend prayed into it and introduced me to Substack, saying she felt it would be a better fit – not least because putting the year’s readings in one book would make it very large and the printing costs too expensive for people to easily buy copies. As soon as I looked at Substack I felt God was saying this was His plan, that we could make freely available to everyone (though He did also lead me to the paid option, which challenged me, but I trust Him so obeyed). It also fulfilled the call I felt to make it interactive, and community based. Books are quite a distant, one-way relationship between the author and their reader, but I wanted something more open for discussion, where I can be available to help if readers have questions, and we can journey together. The busy community chat has already become my favourite part of this project, and I hope it keeps growing.
Where did the idea or inspiration for ‘Walking with Jesus’ come from?
Toward the end of 2024 I had been through several years in a kind of wilderness where many of the things I thought I knew about faith had been stripped away, including any confidence I once had in being able to receive God’s leading. I was overwhelmed by the amount of ‘noise’ (opinions, teachings, prophetic-sounding words etc) coming from Christian circles, that exacerbated the confusion of the season I had just been through. So although I knew God was with me still, I felt in need of a kind of spiritual detox, rebuilding my faith on the only reliable foundation of Jesus Christ: Who He is and what He said – hence the pull to the Gospels. At the same time I felt my attention drawn to the practice called “Lectio Divina” – a gentle way of reading the Bible slowly while listening to God’s voice speaking personally through it. I felt those two things formed an invitation from God to build deeper relationship with Him through 2025.
‘Walking with Jesus’ seems to have two focusses – the slow meditative exploration of scripture, and personally listening for God’s voice. Can you explain what ‘Lectio Divina’ is?
I can’t claim to be an expert, but when it kept crossing my path to the point where I felt God was prompting me to look at it, I did some reading around, and learned that it is an ancient practice that translates as “Divine Reading”. It’s less about academic Bible-study – how much we can learn – and more about building relationship with God through slow, meditative and prayerful reading of small passages of Scripture. Listening to God speaking to us personally through His Word. It usually involves several steps of quieting ourselves, and consciously coming to God’s presence; reading the given passage slowly, often more than once; reflecting on what we have read, and praying into anything that challenges us from it.
How do we learn to hear God’s voice for ourselves?
We need to remember that God does not speak audibly through our ears, but internally, Spirit to spirit. It can take repeated practice to learn to distinguish His voice from all the other ‘voices’ inside us (eg the voices of our upbringing – good and bad, of the culture around us, of temptation, of those closest to us), and sometimes people give up because they don’t “hear” anything. But often it’s a case of practicing and not giving up. Initially we might receive only vague impressions or single words that seem to stand out, but the longer we practice ‘listening’ and writing down whatever we think might be from God to test it later, the more familiar we become with recognising His voice.
What are your hopes for ‘Walking with Jesus’?
I really hope that it helps every subscriber to get to know God better – that they grow in confidence in hearing His voice, and find the beauty of a personal relationship with Him that goes deeper than they had experienced before.
How do people find ‘Walking with Jesus’ and subscribe?
There are two subscription options – the free one gives access to the reading plan with weekly (every Saturday) encouraging posts and links to the community chat room. The paid version (£3.50pcm) offers the same, but the posts are every day (except Sundays). Subscriber links as well as more information here.
(or use the QR code…)
What comes next, when this year finishes?
In terms of ‘Walking with Jesus’, I’m trying not to look beyond 2026 right now, as I want to be fully present for the community of subscribers. I’ve told God I’m open to repeating the same plan with a new group in 2027, or doing further readings with the same people, or whatever He asks – He just hasn’t said yet, and I’m fine with that. In terms of wider writing, I do have a fiction book in progress that I am hoping will come out later this year, and I have several freelance writing/ editing jobs already scheduled for the start of this year.
Rachel, for those who don’t know you, can you tell us a bit more about yourself?
I live with my husband and three sons in North Worcestershire. When not home educating my youngest son through GCSEs, or helping others with their writing, I write books, blogs, and anything that will help people get to know God better. My first book – a memoir – Friend of God: The miraculous life of an ordinary person was published in 2022, and aims to gently encourage anyone to a closer relationship with Jesus, whatever their starting point. My most recent book – a devotional – Finding Jesus in the Wilderness (published 2024) was written during my own wilderness years, with the aim of helping readers navigate their own wilderness seasons and discover the treasure that God has hidden for them there. It was shortlisted for ACW’s Book of the Year in 2025, which was a huge honour. Rachel’s website (including bookshop) can be found at rachelyarworthwriter.uk
Thank you Rachel!
Join me and a growing community of others by subscribing to ‘Walking with Jesus’ now!
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power.
She has also written two non-fiction devotionals. More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
My granddaughter is 2 and a half years old. She is growing up quickly and is developing her own little character. Sweet, gentle, caring, curious, and feisty at times. She is a delight to spend time with, a real joy – and I don’t think I am biased! She is so grown up that she has recently started to come to Nana’s house on her own, without her big brother who is now at school every day.
Play with me
What that does mean is that when she comes, everything else I was hoping to do that day will have to be put aside. ‘Play with me’ she will demand, and boldly walk away to where the toys are, expecting me to follow. It doesn’t enter her head that I might refuse to play with her. Of course I won’t! She knows that. I want to enjoy her company and if that means getting down to her level I will.
Lowering myself
And it might mean literally getting down to her level. Lowering my aging stiff body onto the carpeted floor, laying down and propping myself on an elbow, or sitting with my legs bent awkwardly beneath me. Getting low enough to engage with the lego, or the jigsaw, or the play cars, or the plastic food. I have to lower my expectations too, put aside my level of maturity and understanding, to be present with her in her imaginative games.
What use would it be to suggest a 1000-piece jigsaw, when she can only manage a 24 piece? What nonsense to suggest a complicated board game, when she can only just about play animal dominos? Those might be the things that I would prefer to do, but they are too adult for her. Becoming as a child means just that. I have to put aside my adult experience, knowledge and understanding, lower myself to be able to play her games and enjoy her company. I can teach her things as we play, but only things that are appropriate for her level of understanding.
Jesus blesses the children
I was thinking about this as I read Luke 18 : 15-17 recently. It is the passage where mothers bring their children to Jesus to be blessed and are turned away by the disciples. But Jesus won’t have it – He wants the children to come to Him. He wants to bless them and be in their company. We don’t know what He said, whether He laughed with them, played with them even. In Mark’s gospel we are told He took them in His arms and held them. (Mark 10:13-16) What a beautiful picture that is! I am sure He lowered Himself to their level somehow.
But it is what He said that resonated with me,
‘Let the little children come to Me and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.’ Luke 18:16 -17 NKJV
In Matthew’s account He adds this,
‘Therefore, whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’ Matt 18:4 NKJV
Becoming as a child
When I think about how I have to adjust myself in order to get down to my granddaughter’s level, what Jesus said about being a part of His kingdom makes a lot of sense to me. He doesn’t want me to be childish, that is not what ‘becoming as a child’ means. He just wants me to follow His example. He who lowered Himself from heaven’s splendour to walk our sorry world. He who was willing to come down to our level, so that He could be in our company – for eternity.
Nothing compared to Him
When it comes to His kingdom, all that I think I know, however learned I am, is nothing compared to what He knows and wants to reveal to me. He wants to spend time with me, show me more of the things that are important for me to understand. That requires me to be willing to humble myself, to lower myself, to not rely on, or be proud of my own abilities and knowledge. To even put aside all the things I think I can do for Him. He wants me to have a child- like trust, that He knows better than I do, and that I am safe with Him. He might even want to change the way I think, alter the things I thought I knew. He has much to teach me.
Do I want to be ‘great in the kingdom of heaven’? I am not sure I even know what that looks like. But I do want to be pleasing to the King. I do want to spend quality time in His company. I do want to learn His ways above my own. If that means becoming as a child for that to happen, that seems a small price to pay.
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power.
She has also written two non-fiction devotionals. More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
‘Releasing Janet: can the truth set her free?’ (Benny Series Book 2)
Author: Alex Banwell
ISBN: 978-1915034649 RRP £12.99 (Paperback pp283)
THE BLURB
Janet’s identity is drawn from her role as Benny’s mother. Her epileptic son has needed her all his life, to the detriment of Janet’s own needs. Yet, she lives in the shadow of a childhood secret that her family never speak about. Not her distant parents, nor her rarely seen older brothers. Her husband and children? They don’t even know she holds it.
When Benny’s blossoming independence creates a chasm in Janet’s heart, it’s time for the secret to come out. Will she find the reasons for her parents’ rejection so many years ago? Is there hope for healing – for her to be more than Benny’s mother?
MY REVIEW
Secrets, we all have them. Some things we keep secret by choice, because of shame, or guilt, or perhaps because of the fear that, if revealed, that secret knowledge could harm us, or hurt someone we care about.
What if we carried a secret so huge, so painful, that although buried deep it affects our whole lives? It holds us captive, without us even realising. This is the theme that the beautifully told story in Releasing Janet explores.
Engaging Characters
Alex Banwell writes so insightfully, creating characters with thoughts and feelings that we can easily relate to. These characters draw you into their stories and it becomes hard to put the book down, as you journey with them. The author uses her own experiences to inform her writing, particularly in the area of disability, and how that can affect both an individual and their families. She introduced us to Benny in her first novel, Just Benny. Plagued by severe epilepsy since birth, he has been coddled, smothered and spoilt by his over-protective, sometimes over-bearing mother, Janet.
Releasing Janet reveals the truth of why she is this way. The devastating family secret that Janet only has a child’s perspective of, and yet affects every relationship in her life. Her obsession with protecting Benny drives a wedge between her and her husband, Ola. It also adversely affects her relationship with her daughter, Emma. She lives estranged from her own parents and siblings. Beneath it all is an unspoken fear. And fear has the power to control our lives, affect how we view ourselves and those we love. Hers is a broken family, one that needs healing, one where only facing the truth will set them free.
Great scene setting
Alex expertly divides the narrative between Janet and her family’s present reality and flashback memories into Janet’s childhood. Both time periods are well imagined with period detail added to authenticate the settings. The book is set around Christmas, so is a great book to read at this time of year.
A faith-building read
It is a gently told tale but so powerful, and Jesus is there throughout. Benny’s own growing faith stirs a distant memory in Janet of her own once easy, childlike relationship with God. We meet other godly characters whose influence on Janet is profound. Bit by bit, as the truth comes to the surface, as past hurt is remembered and dealt with, Janet comes to a place of peace, healing and freedom. And Jesus is right there with her in it all.
Releasing Janet is Alex Banwell’s second novel featuring the Wellander family, but it can be read as a standalone story. I was pleased to be asked to take part in the Blog Tour for Releasing Janet, and can heartily recommend it as a really lovely, encouraging and faith-building read. It would also make a great gift to give to someone who is exploring faith, or who is wounded by their own past.
Releasing Janet can be purchased in paperback or kindle edition via Amazon, in paperback or special edition hardback from the publisher, Broadplace Publishing.
For more information on Alex Banwell and her writing, do visit her author website at www.alexbanwellauthor.com
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. ‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.
‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel was published 22 November 2024by Broad Place Publishingand her second non-fiction book, a Lent Devotional, ‘Because of the Cross‘ was published in February 2025
More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
I am currently living through one of the most difficult seasons of my life. Grief, loss and uncertainty are my constant companions. I am saying goodbye to dear loved ones, and experiencing the loss of other things that have given my life stability and certainty for many years. I have questions. Lots of them. The ‘why’s?’ The ‘why now’s?’ The ‘when’s?’ and the ‘what will it look like?’ And the big one, ‘what will my life look like when all this has passed?’
A child’s question
Those of you who read my blog regularly know that my grandchildren teach me so much. My nearly 4 year old grandson has lots of questions. He wants to know ‘why?’ an awful lot. He needs to know exactly where he is going, who will be there, what we will be doing, and for how long! A few days after my dear father went home to be with Jesus, my grandson was visiting his great nanna’s home with us. He got his toys out as usual, sat eating his usual snacks, and then suddenly realised something was different. ‘Where is great granddad?’ he asked.
Now as the grief bubbled up to the surface at his innocent question, it would have been easy to change the subject, ignore his question, lie even. But that wouldn’t have been the right or healthy response. His question was valid and needed an honest answer, however hard that was for us. He deserved to have his question answered, even if it made him sad too.
Limited understanding
He is not yet four, with limited understanding of life’s pain, and with a soft and innocent child’s heart. He had just noticed that there was someone missing, who had always been there. Sitting in a chair in the corner, with a ready smile and warm hug. Did he need to know all the details of how my father had died? Did he need to know about the trauma surrounding his unexpected passing? Of course not. We told him that great grandad got very old and tired and went to be with Jesus. We had to explain, in response to more questions, that yes he was going to be staying there, that he was really happy to be with Jesus in heaven, and that, yes, we were sure he had a really comfortable bed to sleep in there.
A ‘need to know’ basis
His parents chose not to bring our grandson to the funeral because he did not need to know what cremation was, to see the coffin containing dad’s earthly remains, or have the role of the funeral director explained to him. He did not have to see us all in tears. He did come to dad’s Thanksgiving Service and he loved it – the joy and hope and love was palpable. He got to be with family he loved and played with some of his great grandad’s ‘toys’ (military models that my dad collected and painted) as what he called ‘the show’ went on around him.
Questions God won’t answer… for my good
God spoke to me really clearly through this. I may not be a nearly four year old, but to him I am His beloved child. I have questions, and sometimes wish I had all the answers, but God knows that I cannot cope with knowing all that He knows. He knows that would hurt and harm me. He loves me too much to not expose my already fragile heart to more that it can take. He always acts to protect His own.
His ways are higher than mine, His understanding infinite, whilst mine is finite. Yet there are certain things He does want me to hear and know. Like the reminder of the promises written in His word, the reminder of His constant presence and provision, the reminder of His unending love for me.
God whispers His answer
I know there will be a time when all my many questions are answered, or perhaps when I will no longer need answers. When I see Him face to face and nothing else matters any more.
My questions are valid, and God does not brush them off. Instead, He whispers to my heart,
I know, beloved, and I have you. You need to trust me, that I have all of this, and that I am with You. I see your pain, I hear your heart cry, and it moves me deeply. Please know that every promise I have made over you and your life, are yes and amen. This season will end, as surely as spring follows winter. I give beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.
All your questions are answered in Me.
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.
‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. ‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel was published 22 November 2024by Broad Place Publishing.
Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023and her latest 40 day devotional, ‘Because of the Cross‘ was published 7 February 2025
More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
Wilderness seasons come to us all: those spiritually dry and difficult times when God feels far away and the temptation to quit is everywhere. But it’s not all bad. There are treasures hidden among the difficulties that God has brought you here to find. This book offers companionship to those who find themselves in a wilderness season – a hand to hold and a voice to encourage you to keep going. There is hope here after all. Also suitable as a Lenten devotional, where reading a reflection every day will help you to identify with Jesus’ own journey through the wilderness.
MY REVIEW
One of the really thrilling things about being in a community with like-minded Christian writers is that you get to be involved with seeing some incredible books be produced and released into the world. I was so privileged to be able to read an early version of this book when it was still in manuscript form, and it blew me away. I was so excited by it, that I wanted to endorse it, which I did, and recommend it to everyone and anyone.
Have you ever been in a spiritual wilderness season? Perhaps you are in one now? Have you ever wondered why you are there? Or where God is in all of it? Or if you will ever come out the other side?
I think most of us can associate with those thoughts and questions. Loss, long term illness, broken relationships; there are a myriad reasons why we can find ourselves struggling to connect with God. Seasons where we feel lonely, misunderstood, weary and dry.
Written from the Wilderness
This special book was written from the wilderness place; Rachel knows all about it. This isn’t an ‘I got through the other side and now I can see everything clearly’ book, it is real and raw about how it feels to be in that season. Yet it also brims over with hope.
Every chapter is full of truth and treasure, based soundly on the written word of God, and also incorporating some personal Holy Spirit inspired words of encouragement. Written as a 40- day devotional, each day tackles a different aspect of the wilderness experience. Rachel has chosen to alternate these so that alongside every perceived difficulty there is a chapter of hope. So although the wilderness might be a place of desperation, loneliness and fear, is can also be a place of romance, connection and preparation.
Get yourself a copy!
I love this book! Can you tell? It is perfect for Lent, but equally as good at any other time. I am currently reading through it a second time and it is helping me immensely. God is speaking deep words of encouragement to my soul as I face my own challenging season.
I cannot recommend Finding Jesus in the Wilderness highly enough. Go get yourself a copy – buy two and give one away! I truly believe this is going to be a life-changing book for many.
Finding Jesus in the Wilderness is available direct from Rachel at www.rachelyarworthwriter.uk, through Amazon in paperback and eBook form, and wherever good Christian books are sold.
If you want to go even deeper with this book, Rachel has also produced a helpful companion Prayer Journal, also available via her website.
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.
‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.
‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel was published 22 November 2024by Broad Place Publishing.
More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
At the beginning of last month we had a fabulous family day out. So full of joy! We took the children and the grandchildren and visited a stunning country estate, with lush green lawns, hidden gardens, views of mountains and water, and a house full of fascinating history. The sun shone, the ice-creams were delicious, and we all enjoyed it very much. The day after I struggled to move from my bed.
That is the nature of the chronic condition I live with. I can do some of the things that I want to do, I can push myself to live a ‘normal’ life, I can spend a whole day out with my family and walk far more than I usually do. But there is always payback. This time around the payback lasted for some days, and it was painful – both physically and emotionally.
That’s life
I took my frustrations out on God, as I always do. He is big enough to take it! And as always He spoke comfort and wisdom to my soul. He reminded me that life is actually about joy and pain. The two co-exist in tension, and will do until we all enter that place where pain will be no more and our joy inexpressible. Would I have chosen not to go out for that family day if I had known what the after effects would be? No! I would not have missed it for the world. We celebrated one another and created some really special memories that day. The pain was worth it.
Was the pain worth it?
We are fast approaching Christmas (sorry to mention it!). We will be remembering the story of a frightened young girl enduring unimaginable emotional and physical pain as she carried and gave birth to the Son of God. I wonder if Mary thought all the pain worth it? The shunning by her neighbours, the distrust from her betrothed, the looks and snide comments, the exhausting journey to a distant town, the filthy damp stable where she had to give birth. I think she did think it was worth it. For the joy of being chosen to bear the Messiah, the joy of holding her Saviour in her arms, the joy of understanding that this was all so much greater than her momentary suffering.
Jesus
And then of cause there is Jesus,
‘who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross,’ Hebrews 12:2 NKJV
None of us can ever fully understand the pain that Jesus endured. Horrendous physical pain of course, but then there was the heart pain of separation, the weight of sin and all it’s consequences, the betrayal, the mocking. But this verse tells us that it was for the joy to come that He endured it all. The joy of knowing me, and you, and millions of others who would find their life in Him. We were the joy He looked forward to as He submitted himself to the cross.
There is always joy
Not all pain has a reason that we can see. God knows and He sees the bigger picture. Perhaps our pain will produce something fruitful and eternal? And we have this hope – there might be pain, but there is always joy. Jesus came to turn it all around.
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, …. to comfort all who mourn, To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.” Isaiah 61:1-3 NKJV
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.
‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.
‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel is coming soon! Due for publication November 2024
More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
We live in a beautiful spot. From every window at the back of our house we get a panoramic view of the sea. Between our garden and the beach is nothing but a small grassy farmer’s field, very occasionally inhabited by a few sheep or cows. It is protected land, and cannot be built on, for which we are most grateful. One of the reasons for this is that the field covers what was once, many decades ago, the town rubbish tip.
Imagine our surprise when a few weeks back we woke to find a small mechanical digger sitting in the field. We were even more surprised when two men proceeded to erect a tent in the far corner. A few enquires with our neighbours put our minds at ease. The bottle diggers had arrived.
The bottle diggers
Now I knew nothing about bottle diggers. Think metal detectorists, but with a fascination with old glass! A few months ago we had noticed torch lights playing across the pitch black night sky, and woke to find a hole to one side of the field. The bottle diggers somehow knew about the status of our field as an old rubbish tip, and, in this case, had illegally trespassed to look for treasure. Apparently there is a network of bottle diggers in this country, and when the diggers with the tent found out about the night time digging, they approached the owner of the land and asked for permission to dig – in the daylight! By turning over the whole field, legally, they would hopefully discourage the less honest diggers from returning.
Unearthing treasure
And they knew their stuff. They dug deep, down to several feet, and turned up hundreds, maybe even thousands of bottles of all shapes and sizes. We watched as they examined them, throwing some into sacks, placing others more delicately into crates. Who knew that old bottles could be so valuable? They were happy to chat and share their knowledge – and even gifted us a few of their finds. Including a 70 year old Australian wine bottle that apparently is worth quite a bit in Australia! We won’t be going any time soon… They didn’t show us the most valuable pieces, but did assure us they had more than covered the cost of the digger hire and diesel. They also dug up lots of broken glass and crockery, and made a lot of mess!
Restoring the surface
One of the conditions of being allowed to dig was that the bottle diggers were to level the field, remove any surface glass, and sow new grass seed when they had finished. As I look out at the field today, it is still very obvious that someone has dug it over, but grass is beginning to appear. In a few months time it will be as if the bottle diggers were never there.
A messy business
Why am I telling you all this? Well God spoke to me very clearly through what I observed. Sometimes in life God wants to do some deep work in us. He wants to bring treasure to the surface, but the process can be messy, and unearth more than things of eternal value. Digging deep into our hearts and souls can also bring a lot of rubbish to the surface. That is not a bad thing. If the deep work exposes both good and bad, then both can be dealt with through His grace at work in us.
Real treasure
I was dwelling on this. Knowing that in this season of my life God has done some deep work, bringing things to the surface that have long been buried. It has not been comfortable, and has even been messy at times. I know we have had to face some rubbish together, but I also believe He has brought some real treasure to the surface.
I wonder if it is visible to anyone else that a deep digging has taken place in my life? And does it matter if it doesn’t? If others look at me and see me as they have always seen me? I know that the ‘bottle digger’, that is the Holy Spirit, has been. In fact He is still here. And if I am the only one who ever appreciates the work He has done in my life then that is OK. The treasure is all His.
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.
‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.
‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel is coming soon! Due for publication November 2024
More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
God often uses my experiences with my grandchildren to speak to me, but today it is dogs that have inspired me to write. I am a dog lover, and a bit of a softie, so when asked to dog-sit for friends, I agreed. There was a little trepidation as we already have a small dog, a little Jack Russell cross, who is sweet, but can also be terrier feisty at times.
Our dog is used to living with other dogs – the home she came from has a multitude – but this was going to be the first time in her short life (she is 15 months old) that she has shared our home with another dog. We made the introductions a few weeks ago and all seemed to go well. It has in fact been a relatively smooth transition for both of them since the visitor moved in yesterday. There have been no problems with feeding, sleeping, or behaviour – generally.
Dogs on Guard
This morning I was chuckling watching them. They are both exhausted from much racing around the house and garden, but for a time neither of them would lie down and relax completely. It was almost as if they weren’t sure who was supposed to be ‘on guard’, and who should be the one barking at random potential threats. They have taken it in turns to sit in the window and bark or growl, inevitably setting each other off. I found myself just wishing they would both just give in – lie down and give me some peace! They don’t need to guard the house because I am here. There is no threat.
Potential Threats
As I was thinking about this, I felt God speak into my heart. There are a lot of uncertainties in my life at the moment. Potential threats, worries about what might be. Those uncertainties are affecting several areas of my life, and they aren’t small things. I guess many of us have them. I know of many friends who feel the same struggles – walking the path of the unknown. It is tempting to be ‘on guard’ in those seasons. To take too much time to think, and worry, and try to prepare, when we don’t even know what we are preparing for!
Will You Just Rest?
This is what I heard God whisper to me today, as I watched those two little dogs taking turns in ‘guarding’ the house.
Will you just rest, child? You don’t have to keep looking for trouble! You don’t have to be on guard. You don’t have to worry about what will be, about what might happen. There is grace enough. I Am here. The pack leader is here. I can protect you, I can keep you safe, I will provide. You can leave the worry to Me.
Learn from those pups. You provide all that they need, and they look to you. They do not need to protect and guard the house, because you are there, you can see and understand more than they do – what is a threat and what really isn’t! So it is with Me. Let Me take the load, let Me be all you need, let Me carry you, let Me be the guard at your gateposts. Put your trust in Me, I am your place of rest.
Lie Down and Rest
As I write this I now have two small dogs asleep on my feet. They have given up. I am not sure for how long, but I am enjoying the peace. I wonder if sometimes God looks down and wishes we would just give up being what we don’t need to be! That we would just lie down and rest.
I also read Psalm 103 today. What a glorious declaration of what God has done for us, and will continue to do for us! He has blessed us without limit already and He will continue to bless us. To hold us, provide for us, and do what we can’t do. He knows us intimately, He knows what is coming, and how to get us through it. He is all that I need, He has all that I need. Help Me Lord to leave the guarding to You, to lie down and take my rest in You.
Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.
‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.
‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel is coming soon! Due for publication November 2024
More information on Joy, and her books can be found here
