Wounded by God’s People by Anne Graham Lotz

Beautifully-written for the many who suffer in silence and internalize the hurt caused intentionally, and unintentionally, by fellow Christians

Wounded by God's People
By Anne Graham Lotz
Authentic
ISBN No: 978-1-444-78328-5
Reviewed By: Jo Regan

How often have we spoken to friends, and those we used to worship with, only to find out how much they have been hurt by their experience of church, or to be more specific hurt by God’s people? Many of us can relate to the title, and subject of this book ourselves.

Lotz herself has been there, done that, and worn the proverbial t-shirt. Her gentleness and humility shines through in this beautifully written book in which she uses her own painful experience to help those who are still hurting to find healing and wholeness.

This book is for the many who suffer in silence and internalize the hurt that have been caused intentionally, and unintentionally, by fellow Christians. It is not easy to address these issues but Lotz believes that ‘It’s time to put this on the table and call out the “sin that is in the camp.”’(Joshua 7).

Lotz is concerned about the distorted reflection of God that is mirrored so badly by some of God’s people, and seeks to help the reader to see the true image of God, personified in Jesus.

Lotz shows great empathy, love, and concern for her readers as she draws on the story of Hagar. Hagar’s own journey was one of being hurt and mistreated by God’s people, specifically by Abraham.

God called Abraham his friend, they had a good relationship, and yet Abraham still got it wrong. He still managed to hurt Hagar and stood by as he saw her continually being mistreated by Sarah, his wife.

God however, does not fail Hagar and continues to pursue her intentionally, passionately, and yet lovingly. Lotz reminds the reader that God also pursues us in the same way and that he wants to heal us of these hurts.

Anne Graham Lotz is a bestselling author, well-respected preacher, evangelist, and international speaker. She is also the daughter of evangelist Billy Graham.

Wounded by God’s People is a book about healing, wholeness and indeed forgiveness. I would particularly recommend it to those who have been hurt by fellow Christians and who are consequently struggling to return to church life.

Revd Jo Regan is a Baptist Minister and keen blogger

Baptist Times, 29/04/2016

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