I happened to pick up Touched by God on a day when I was under the weather, overwhelmed, and stressed. Ever been there? The sub title to the book reads “A devotional for mental illness”. I was curious how Geisler would categorize and explain mental illness, but in fact, it’s not that kind of self help manual. She understands-much to the relief of the reader-what mental illness is. There are no complicated explanations or typical psycho-babble present as you read through the prayers and/or devotions.
Separated into sections for Diagnosis, Treatment, Challenges, Helps, Successes, and prayers for family and friends, Geisler leads the reader through the journey of discovering something isn’t quite right, through the complex process of determining the right course of treatment, and to the finish line of feeling normal again. As a pharmacist and certified diabetes educator, Geisler received hands on training as she and her parents have previously suffered major depression. She brings this knowledge to Touched by God with an assuring tone that allows the reader to admit there is a problem and then realize that it is ok because God is still in control.
What is mental illness? At the core of each person experiencing mental illness is the instability that they have lost control-and that can be down right scary. Whether suffering from depression, post-partum psychosis, or bi-polar illness, the feeling of being out of control can lend a bigger challenge than the illness itself. Yet, on a day when I was not suffering from a mental illness but still feeling a lack of control over my situations, I found a peace and reassurance that no matter what, God is still in control. That fact alone could bring comfort to a loved one who is afflicted. Along with medication, a network of support and Geisler’s devotional, you can be confident you or your loved one will be armed to handle the crisis in the best way possible.
We all suffer from the ill effects of life in one way or another. Do not let the sub-title fool you. Jobless? Battling a health crisis? Mental illness? Depressed? Family situations? Although Touched by God is geared toward those going through a mental illness, Geisler's devotions bring hope and faith for anyone experiencing a low in their own life. Complete with a section for setting monthly goals and diet and budget troubleshooting, this is one devotional that packs surprising results in a short book.
It’s easy to feel isolated, abandoned and alone when fighting a mental or emotional illness. What a refreshing experience to be reminded that our feelings are wrong, and that …because of (Gods) great compassion, (he) did not abandon (us) in the desert. (Nehemiah 9:19)
Paperback: 108 pages
Publisher: Pleasant Word-A Division of WinePress Publishing (July 3, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1414114338
ISBN-13: 978-1414114330
Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5 x 0.5 inches
Request a Copy
NOTE-Touched by God was provided by WinePress/Pleasent Word Publishing for review purposes.
