This was such an encouraging book for anyone who struggles with negative thoughts. The author writes warmly from her own experiences which is always better than reading an often dry how-to lecture. She also uses actual examples from others who have lived through difficult situations, which provides plenty of issues and how they were successfully handled. At the conclusion of every chapter there are bible verses pertaining to God's faithfulness and growing our faith, as well as journal-type questions to help you work through issues, if you wish. This would make a great group study, too. I read this book in the morning as part of my devotional time, so there are several ways this book can be used to great benefit for every reader. I just bought three copies to share with friends, as I think it's the kind of book that is not only helpful but also hopeful and supportive. ( )

I really enjoyed this book and loved the insight the author had about our negative thoughts. We all go through trials and sometimes it is hard to have a good attitude. No matter what our circumstances are, we can choose to have a positive attitude or choose to allow the enemy to take us further into despair. In this book the author gives us tools to help us overcome our fears and learn to have a great attitude.

I loved the authors examples from her own life and others to help us see how anyone can get trapped in thinking we have done something wrong, have anger issues, depression or whatever else the enemy wants to throw at us. I never thought about how my unhappy face or thoughts were affecting me. I loved when the author addressed an issue I have struggled with all my life. My parents always told me I was stupid, ugly and would never amount to anything. That has stayed with me for way to long. "If we listen to all this negative self-talk , which is not from God, we might end up sinking into an ocean of discouragement and hopelessness and feeling that we can never swim our way out of peaceful waters."

I like the study at the end of each chapter. The author recaps what the subject was, asks a few questions for us to think on and gives us scriptures to reinforce God's word. The book is filled with testimonies that show us that are others are going through similar issues. We need to always be alert to the traps of the enemy. I know for me it is that small voice saying I'm not good enough. I loved when the author said, "If we aren't mentally and spiritually prepared for battle, it is unlikely we will win. " I thought about the men and women who are serving our country . They have to always be prepared for battle, be alert and not let their guard down. I am encouraged after reading this book that I can change my thinking, become more positive and live a life of freedom. The catch is, I have to do my part. I have to choose not to listen to the enemy and fall for his tricks.

"Life is not always as we think it should be, but it is always as God planned it to be."

I received a copy of this book from LitFuse. The review is my own opinion. ( )