Book Review: Everyday Brave

To write Everyday Brave: Living Courageously as a Woman of Faith Janet Thompson invited her Facebook audience to tell about the bravest thing they’ve ever done. She then added those stories to stories of 50 Bible women to give us a book that echoes our own stories. Who hasn’t had to wrestle up the courage to obey the Holy Spirit’s prompting, to forgive an abuser, to love unconditionally, to hike the Grand Canyon? Maybe we didn’t think of our actions as being brave, but they required courage.

Chapter titles include “Brave Waiting,” “Brave Discernment,” “Brave Trust” and “Brave in Rejection.” On these pages, you’ll meet both famous and ordinary, even unnamed, Bible women with lessons drawn from their lives. For instance, did you know scholars believe Phoebe carried Paul’s letter to Rome, the letter that included “the Roman road to salvation”? Did you ever consider what Abishag may have given up to become David’s concubine in his old age? I liked the insight the author’s study brought to the biblical stories.

And along with Bible women, you’ll meet fellow travelers on this road of life who offer hope and courage to face your own fears—Nancy, Terri, Yuri, to name just a few. Thompson’s writing is clear and challenging. In “Brave in Business” she writes “It takes great courage to do right in a world legalizing wrong, but there is no right way to do the wrong thing. You’ll never regret choosing God’s way.”

I liked the book’s short chapters ending with “Getting Your Brave On” discussion questions that can be used personally or with a group.   Each chapter opens with an appropriate quote and a scripture verse. Back matter includes a short guide for leading small groups or book clubs, a prayer and praise journal, notes and information about the author’s “About His Work” ministry.

This is a great book for personal reflection, gift giving or group study. Everyday Brave will certainly help you “get your brave on” and step out in faith to face life’s challenging situations.

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