The Blessing Life: A Journey to Unexpected Joy
"With a keen ability to weave together vivid stories, music, poetry and art, Gerrit Dawson's small book takes us on the hopeful journey of the blessing life. What he offers is no cliché, but instead glorious theology made incredibly practical; here is a life that is lived in and out of God's blessing, a life of communion with God that is free not only to enjoy God's grace but also to extend it to others. If you sense God is distant or unconcerned, read this book. You will be blessed." (Kelly M. Kapic, professor of theological studies, Covenant College, and author of God So Loved He Gave)"Writing with a pastor's loving heart for people, Dawson draws from the examples of believers through the centuries, the arts as well as personal and pastoral experiences to show how the biblical promise of God's blessing can be an ever-flowing source of life--even when we confront the most difficult and perplexing challenges. The accompanying forty-day prayer and study guide will help readers dig deeper and apply what they have learned." (Jeffrey Jeremiah, stated clerk, Evangelical Presbyterian Church)"Gerrit Dawson has brought a much-needed focus to bear through this book, a focus that is often obscured by the narcissistic culture of our time. The Blessing Lifebrings us into full awareness of all that God has lavished on us, then leads us to a Christlike model of blessing others in all we do--in every dimension of life. This is what the body of Christ is to look like when fully mature, and I know reading this will inspire people to move there." (David D. Swanson, senior pastor, First Presbyterian Church Orlando)"Just as astronomical images taken in the infrared, visible and ultraviolet wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum reveal different structures and features of nebulae and galaxies, so Gerrit Dawson's images of blessing in the biblical spectrum reveal a rich and life-enhancing approach to a flourishing life.The Blessing Life creatively explores how the acceptance and favor of the living God elevates our lives and provides a basis for purpose and persistence amid the turbulent conditions of this soul-forming world, and it invites us to give away what we have received as we become conduits of grace in the lives of the people in our spheres of influence." (Kenneth Boa, president, Reflections Ministries, and author of Yearning for More)"The Blessing Lifeis a love story about a love that's bigger than the universe. As I read the book, I found myself ushered, amazingly, into the transformative love story of Jesus and his Father that's been opened up to include me--to include us!The Blessing Lifewas written for the weary and heavy laden. In other words, it was certainly written for me (and probably for you, too). . . . for the glory of God and the good of others. I'm confident this book will change the way you think of God's love and the way you live life in the community of the saints." (Dan Cruver, executive director of Together for Adoption and author of Reclaiming Adoption)"The Blessing Life. . . is the kind of book that will change everything you ever thought about blessing--from God, to God and to others. Not only that, it will change your life in ways you never dreamed. I commend this book to you. After you read it, you will 'rise up' and call Gerrit Dawson blessed for having written it."   (Steve Brown,  Bible teacher on Key Life and professor at Reformed Seminary, Orlando, Florida)"We often say 'bless you' with little thought to the true meaning behind that phrase. Never again will I offer those words without serious consideration of the One from whom blessings come, thanks to Gerrit Dawson's masterfully craftedThe Blessing Life.Throughout these pages, Gerrit edifies our souls with deep theological truth wrought from years of study, prayer and humbly walking the way of the cross. I encourage you to allow his words to bless your heart so that you may bless others in this journey of life." (Jill Rigby, founder/CEO of Manners of the Heart and author of Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World)"The Blessing Lifeis a veritable feast of inspiration, packed with joy-building truth, biblical wisdom that stretches the mind and practical application that challenges the heart. What a tremendous, delightful study, perfect for individual reflection or an all-church series. I highly recommend this wonderful book." (Gary Thomas, bestselling author of Sacred Marriage)