Now and Not Yet: Pressing in When You’re Waiting, Wanting, and Restless for More Hardcover – April 9, 2024

I always read the summary of a new book before committing to it, even if it's a favorite author. This goes double for nonfiction, since I'm pretty choosy about what I invest my time in for that genre. I have to almost salivate for the knowledge therein. Well, Ruth Chou Simons had me salivating, all right, but in a different way than I thought I would.In a nutshell, I knew I absolutely had to have Now and Not Yet. Living with cerebral palsy and recently diagnosed level one autism (formerly known as Asperger's), my entire life has been a series of "not yet" seasons. Most of those seasons have had plenty of joy in them, but let's just say, God has never done what I expected or wanted, and I've never received what the evangelical subculture of the '90s and '00s promised being a "good Christian girl" would get me. Add in my oldest daughter, INFJ personality, my insatiable need to learn and know, my bookish traits...whew, yeah. I *needed* this book.And Ruth did not let me down for a moment. I can't go through every detail I loved because so much of what and how I loved Now and Not Yet is so personal. What I can say is throughout most of the book, I was saying, "Girl, you are Reading. My. Mail." I found myself challenged, convicted, and comforted. I would often put aside my Kindle to pray, and then to respond to what my heart heard. I rarely do this, but I fully intend to buy a hardback copy so I can go back and journal/answer some of Ruth's end-of-chapter questions.I also loved Ruth's "truths to press into" and liturgies at the end of each chapter. I don't come from a denomination that does liturgies, so I want to go over these again and maybe try memorizing them to use later. They, along with Ruth's writing in general, are a great reminder to me and perhaps readers like me that we don't have to force ourselves to power through hard seasons; it is God who does the work in us.And that--that is where I gleaned the most freedom. I know I'm going to have to remind myself of this and really "press in" because yeah, there goes that "oldest daughter worker bee" mentality again. But when Ruth acknowledged that yes, putting on a fake smile and pretending everything's fine is not enough, I remember whooshing out a mental sigh of relief. Now granted, there were a few times she seemed to go back on that. I remember her section on "flipping the script" irritated me a little, because it was like she was saying, "You need to do this even if a certain activity is one you really hate or doesn't feel safe or you can't do or make yourself enjoy." But again, that's just me. I think I "get" what she really meant now--flipping the script is saying, "Okay God, *how* can I be honest while still inviting You to use this and grow me?"Overall then, Now and Not Yet is an encouraging, inspirational book. But unlike so many books in the Christian market, I think it's deeper than an "inspiration." It's more than a book written to tell a mom wading through spilled pickle juice or a single disabled woman wondering if she'll ever have an impact, "Rah, rah, you can do it, you got the joy, joy, joy, joy, joy down in your heart, yeah!" That's phony.No...this is a book that says, "Come. Sit. Have your beverage. Open up about your season. Open up about what's missing. And then...and then, hold the hand of the God who has the resources you need because He knows them and knows you. Ask Abba for a big hug. And then say to Him, 'Show me how to use what You say I have now. Adjust my vision. Teach my hands and heart how to work with this. Teach me that you love me.'" I promise, it will be worth the challenge, convictions, and personal exploration, so grab a copy.

As a member of the book launch team for Ruth Chou Simmons' transformative work, "Now and Not Yet," I had the privilege of immersing myself in its pages and discovering a profound source of hope and resilience. Little did I know that this book would become a guiding beacon during a period of uncertainty and transition in my own life.During delving into this book, I found myself unexpectedly faced with a job loss. The sense of upheaval and instability was daunting, but within the pages of this book, I found solace and strength. Ruth's words resonated deeply, offering practical strategies and heartfelt encouragement that helped me navigate this challenging season with courage and determination.One of the most remarkable aspects of "Now and Not Yet" is its universal relevance. While my experience with job loss aligned closely with the themes in the book, I soon realized that Ruth's insights and wisdom are applicable to a myriad of life's trials. Whether confronting career transitions, grief, parenting, relationship complexities, or personal growth journeys, "Now and Not Yet" equips readers with invaluable tools and perspectives to not merely endure but to flourish.What distinguishes this book is Ruth's authentic voice and her ability to weave personal narratives with timeless truths. Each chapter unfolds like a compassionate dialogue with a trusted mentor, brimming with empathy, clarity, and actionable guidance. I found myself returning to its pages repeatedly, discovering fresh insights and renewed resolve with each reading.Ruth transcends this past being a mere book; it's a steadfast companion for life's unpredictable voyage. It possesses the transformative power to uplift, inspire, and embolden readers to navigate life's complexities with unwavering hope and resilience. I wholeheartedly endorse it for anyone seeking guidance, encouragement, and a renewed sense of purpose in their journey.

I couldn't ask for any better book to read in a season of now and not yet, which is where it seems like I'm at. In between being in a season of focus, rebuilding, and inconvenience. It may be tough right now, but I know GOD is working out in my favor as I steward where I'm at right now. Thank you, Mrs. Ruth, for such an incredibly well written book, I can't wait to read more works of art from you. GOD Bless and take care. Peace, Love, and Blessings, E aka Erika.