Don't Fret Over Lost Crackers: Devotionals for the Worn-Out

done on my WL...i have 24 books to read before your..so hope will be able to get back to you by the ned of May...
olga13

I feel as if I know you, your words spoke to me thank you. I too have had to battle depression, the massive stroke I experienced in 1998 resulted in organic brain syndrome which at times can seem like bi-polar disorder. though it is different . I have run the gambit. take a look at some of my poetry most of it was written during moments of discouragement when God lifted me up through what I wrote. oh and I really love the title of your book.

The book title intrigued me and got me to a take a closer look - glad as I did as there is a lot of merit in what this book is trying to achieve and, as far as I had time to read, it hit the spot very well. The chapter on Thanksgiving was a particular highlight. There are a lot of these types of books on the market but I think this compares well.

M.P. Jones
They Shoot Birds, Don't They?

Wow Rob, I absolutely love the pitch of this book!! It is easy to see that the book will be vulnerable, and that is what helps others want to change.

Dear Rob,

Thank you for sharing your heart. I read your first three chapters today and truly felt the depth of your honest spirit. I especially like your discussion of the "oughts" and "shoulds." Your voice has validity in these matters as well. The reader really gets the sense you have walked in some difficult hardships, yet you have known the very presence and unconditional love of God on a personal level. This piece will be a blessing to many. Wishing you every success.

All the very best,
Faith Rose
Now To Him

You have a good message for all of us. We all need to let Jesus take our place and give us his peace and his joy in the midst of whatever we're dealing with. I'm putting this on my list to read further. When you have a few moments, could you look at my To Catch a Speckled Trout? It's a story of fraud and redemption.

Rob, I have read your book and wanted to leave some comments. It's a wonderful devotional and I am so glad you address the emotional issues people deal with - of course we all do, to some degree, but as you point out, what a difference in life when we begin to see things in the light of God's perspective. That changes everything for us if we really search for God's direction. In chapter 4 you talked about trying in life to solve our problems in our own way, not always remembering how much and how willing God is to help us through. I liked what you said: "He really does care about us, and desires only our well being and success in life. The problem is our willingness to trust Him." Good words, Rob. How true.

In chapter 7 you talked about not having fear control us, and again I agree with you on that. You stated in many different ways that God does not want us to live in fear. Yes, and I do agree, but also I remember what Jesus said, that we should not fear those who can "kill the body" but fear God, and the Bible also tells us that the fear of God is "the beginning of wisdom." and so I would agree with you that we don't need to live in fear, and yes, that God is love, and also to be greatly respected - greatly honored. But it seems to me there should be a healthy understanding of the fear of the Lord. For instance, you and I have chosen to take God's word and share it, giving our own interpretation of what God's word says, and in my mind, we should have some sense of fear of doing that in the wrong way. We're handling God's word and we need to be very prayerful and cautious in that. And in everything in life, we want God's blessing, and not His displeasure. Does that mean a life of fear? No, not at all. But I would say a definite awareness.

In chapter 10 you referenced the scripture that says "When you are weak, I am strong." and I liked your words. You explained it well in saying that God wants to show us what He can do in our lives. You mentioned pride, and again, I agree with you. Pride can be an intolerable stumbling block in life. It seems it can put a wall between us and God. You did such an excellent job of getting the point across that God does want a relationship with us.

Your chapter on Thanksgiving was also excellent. And your conclusion was wonderful. That God is the greatest source of love we'll ever know.

Also, thank- you for sharing your story of your struggles with OCD. I know it takes courage to share personal problems, and you may in doing so help so many people. In fact, I believe you will, because they will read your testimony of what God has done in your life. You certainly express your faith and it comes through clearly. I could feel your sense of joy in what you share. God has given you a wonderful gift, and you've used it well, my friend. I have sincerely enjoyed reading your book. All the best to you, julie

thanks for sharing your God-given talents. keep writing and enjoying your journey...
j

Hi Rob,

I read through chapter five of your book and was struck by the common threads that run through them. Letting God be our guide and trusting in Him does so well to set “reset” a soul.

Chapter one - was written with such passion and knowing, that I can’t hardly imagine how a doubter suffering with reoccurring pain could reject this message or at least not check the “Jesus thing” out. If I were at my wits end, I think I would be compelled to give Him a chance. You are very convincing.

Chapter two - The Tyranny of ‘Oughts’ and ’Shoulds.’ There is so much truth in this. Comparing ourselves to others and doing things to please others has a very damaging affect and renders us ineffective in who God created us to be. I loved this.

Chapter three - Don’t Fret Over Lost Crackers - I agree with Patti. This is my favorite chapter, but I love stories. The more personal illustrations the better. That’s the way I learn and the way my heart is moved. Great job!

Chapter four - Freaked out, Frazzeled, and Buzzing on Busy Behavior - and chapter five - Are You Orbital? You definitely have a knack for writing catchy chapter titles. Both of these chapters take a very upbeat, practical, and convincing approach that encourages the reader to not stress but simply trust in God.

Rob, this is a great devotional. Your strong faith comes through and is contagious. Highly starred!

Dianna Lanser
Nothing But The Blood

Rob,

I just read your first 5 chapters. Your love for God and heart for others clearly shines through in your writing. I read your forum post about wondering if some of the chapters make the walk of faith sound too easy. Obviously you know full well that's not the case so perhaps adding a bit more of your own journey would help to illustrate how you've put the scriptures that you're quoting into practice. I thought the "cracker" chapter was excellent in showing the 2 different perspectives of you and your friend and how/why you both reacted as you did. So building in some more practical examples like that would be great!

I noticed that you have two chapter 1's loaded and they look a bit different. The uploading on this site can be tricky at times but if you can take out the version you don't want that would be good.

All the best to you!

Patti

Hi Rob, I just noticed that we share the same surname. Thank you for backing 'Survival Guide for Christians'. I have put 'Don't Fret Over Lost Crackers' on my Waitlist until I have time to read further chapters.
I like the way you write. It is clear, simple and real on a down-to-earth level. I can think of many people in our church who would appreciate this book. Isn't it great to find so many Christians on this site?
I agree with you about trusting God with everything. Some people don't know Him well enough to trust Him to that extent, but He is the only One who is totally trustworthy. Of course that doesn't mean that everything will work out the way we'd like, but it does mean He'll work on our behalf to turn even bad things into something good.

This is a nicely written set of devotions, which clearly come from the reality of your own experience. Your first devotion sets the scene well, by allowing some of your own vulnerability to shine through. At times I found some of the devotions a bit simplistic and trite - trust in God and everything will be OK. I'm sure you know as well as anyone else that life isn't that simple. I personally would avoid the use of capitalised words and phrases - to my mind they cheapen the message. Thanks for writing these and I hope that they will prove helpful to others.
Peter

Good devotions to encourage people and help us relate to others as they go through problems.
If you have time, please read Spring:Connecting with God and let me know what you think.

Read chapter 3:
"Relationships are quite complicated, especially if both parties bring their own set of life wounds and problems into the mix, which actually is very normal."
"We are all made by God and deserve understanding and respect, even if the other person's response to a situation doesn't make sense."
Very wise, enlightening writing! So glad I read on!

Read the first 2 chapters and will come back for more. Uplifting, positive take on Christianity and the meaning of scripture. Your "Gospel" is truly "Good News!" and your writing is professional.
Starred and watchlisted.
Georgia Peck
The Woman From EARL

Hello Rob:

It is so incredibly exciting to see how God is pouring our a fresh revelation of His wonderful grace and mercy on such a diversity of people in a diversity of places.

Your devotional truly addresses the message that so many have been longing to hear, but which the old wineskin of religious traditionalism and the culture of church busyness simply cannot satisfy. Thank you for your transparency-a price of pride which you have gladly chosen to pay in the desire of reaching those who do not know what it is to have a relationship with Him-both believer and not-yet-believer alike!

I really love Chapter 3 because it is a true-to-life metaphor of how so many people are freaking completely out of control over so many stupid, insignificant things which daily life hands them.

The Holy Spirit is using your writing as an invitation for people to experience the reality of "being led beside still waters." May He continue to abundantly bless your ministry and your life.

James

Thank you so very much!!! I'm having trouble with my pc; not letting me put books on my shelf. But I am able to put you on my watchlist until I fix the situation.

Keep up the good work. Your story is worth telling.
You got my backing.
Could you please check TO KILL A DEAD MAN? Comment/backing will be appreciated.
Dan

Keep up the good work. Your story is worth telling.
You got my backing.
Could you please check TO KILL A DEAD MAN? Comment/backing will be appreciated.
Dan

Rob
I read through your book, and I am moved at your journey with God. Your thoughts are well put together and I think it would be a great opening for someone who wants to learn more about God's love and Grace.
Thank you for sharing! May God bless you and the work of your hands!
I will be putting you on my list and shelf. If you have some time, I would be honored if you would take some time to look at my book and give me any comments you may have! THank you and God bless!

I had time to read 3 chapters this morning, and thought this was very well-written, fluent and easily accessible. You bring up some really interesting points that people have in some way or another had contact with (either with a loved one or themselves): depression (which can be sparked by anything), the pressure of being a certain way (peer pressure), and understanding others.

The wrapper in your friend's mother's car was a great example to use to point out the last of these. What may seem irrational to one person may be perfectly rational to someone else. By explaining your friend's background that wrapper wasn't such a small thing, triggering a deep-seated fear in him, both of what his mother would say as well as probably bringing back bad memories. I think everyone can relate to this story in some way or another. My husband at times has complained that I don't get fussed over the big things, but may get worked up about something small, and insignificant. However, I don't see it this way. In my mind, although the big things may bother me I let them fly because why get stressed about them when I can't change them. BUT when something small that I am supposed to be able to control doesn't go my way things get on top of me. It's like the straw that broke the camel's back, where everything becomes to much, and the bigger things and smaller things all gang up together. I've explained this to him, and although it still frustrates him, hopefully he understands my logic. Thus, I think what I'm getting at, as you are, is everyone does things for a reason, and as long as it doesn't hurt anyone, people should be more understanding and not so judgemental.

Thank you for sharing this with me. It's a good start to my day :) All the best - Marita.

This is very nicely written and will be of immense value to people reading it. I do, however, feel that it is a Christian audience that it will mean most to. Non-Christians will be perhaps alienated by references that mean nothing to them, and those who follow other Gods may also be put off. The message is full fo hope and gentle assurance and is perfectly pitched, but I do feel it has one audience. People who are not Christian may, of course, pick it up and find hope and encouragement, and even be led to reach out to God.
Cariad.

I have had my share of mental issues over the years Rob, and it was only my commitment to God that pulled me through. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story with the world. It is an inspiring journey which I have no doubt, will bring comfort to others. Backed. Eunice - The Temple Dancer and Poetic Voice of Soul.

hello Rob. Very well written. A pleasure to read and back.

Nick
Invasion from Within

It must have been very difficult to write your story and I do admire your courage in doing so. Your Christian and inspirational messages clearly shine through. Your first person narrative voice resonates with authenticity and your straight forward, easy-to-read writing is perfect for this genre of book. Backed with pleasure.

Andrew Burans
The Reluctant Warrior: The Beginning

I have read several chapters of your devotionals a night (sometimes 3 and 4!) and they have helped me to relax more and see life in different colors. I finally reached the end of your story, and sad that it did end. I do hope you are continuting to write, and keep on putting your feelings, your hope, your fears on page. Your words gave me a lot of comfort, which I will re-read over and over again. If you put out another book, please contact me. Would love to read more.

Thank you for your thoughts.

Linda "Time Sword"

This is an inspirational book that uses the power and promise of Jesus to heal us, and deliver us from our earthly problems, and to recognize and deal with the ghosts in our closet. Well written, with a sympathetic message. Backed!

Craig Ellis
The Sun and the Saber

I truly love your words. My husband suffered from depression, but received no sympathy from his father. I tried to explain to his parents the chemicals in Dan's brain was working against him, thus his depression, but his father said, "That's bull. I get depressed, but I get over it. So can he." No, he didn't. In the end, his depression worsened so that he took his life. Your simple words give me comfort, that there are others out there who hurt, too, and can't seem to do anything about it. Only by putting the Lord first can you take that miraculous step forward. Ever since my husband died, I've been speaking to the Lord on a daily basis, and I feel I'm a better person for it. Your words just remind me life goes on and on, and we should be grateful for each day.

I'm very glad that I stumbled upon your book on this site, because it is not usually a genre that I hit. I want to thank you for posting this - What I took from your book is that I can rejoice in my battle scars - and I do have some...and that I don't have to be perfect to be a child of God - because He has made me perfect in His sight...Amen...Good luck with this - Sincerely, April

Affecting work that ought to be going up the charts and NOT down!
Backed with pleasure!!!!!
Frank.
If you back or have backed my work, you may also want to approach BJD (a big supporter of Sicilian Shadows) for a further possible backing of your book.

I think you have a great voice for this book. My mom reads this kind of thing, and so it seems to be on target for that audience. You've opened your heart up to the reader and used encouraging words to give them hope. It's a very brave thing to share your heart and faith with others, and I commend you for that.
xBeccaX
The Forever Girl

This is a great devotional. I like the fact that you realized that life can make us all a little crazy. I liked the writing in the few chapters I read, as, unlike many other Christian books, it was not talking down to me OR assuming I already knew everything. Good luck with your book. You have my backing.

I'm so glad and humbled you feel that way!! I hope you truly enjoy. =)
QUOTE] Rob, the material matter in this pitch is awesome and inspiring. I have backed it with pleasure and look forward to reading it.
Helen

Rob, the material matter in this pitch is awesome and inspiring. I have backed it with pleasure and look forward to reading it.
Helen

I'm so honored you enjoy my work! You have made my day by the honest and nice comments!

(Chapter Three) I'm so glad I'm fearfully and wonderfully made by God. It's this knowledge that gets me through everyday. Still loving your work.-- Tina

(Chapter Three) I'm so glad I'm fearfully and wonderfully made by God. It's this knowledge that gets me through everyday. Still loving your work.-- Tina

Thank y ou for the touching comments!!! I am glad my writing is doing it's job, helping and encouraging others!!!

I noticed yesterday I said the pain tears are your very spirit. I meant to say tears at your very spirit. I'm still reading and still enjoying. Sorry about the type O.--Tina

I noticed yesterday I said the pain tears are your very spirit. I meant to say tears at your very spirit. I'm still reading and still enjoying. Sorry about the type O.--Tina

I love the line -the pain tears are your very spirit. I haven't experienced a close loss, but I know someone who has and this is exactly how she is feeling. I can relate to other areas of your book. So far, I've only read one chapter, but I plan on reading this daily. Very good job. I'm backing this book.--Tina

P.S. Thanks for your response to my book Healing Love.

This is AWESOME! I think your book relates to pretty much EVERYONE, ( some ppl might not admit it ) I like how you talk about leaving the past in the past. That is very good information! I see a lot of people battling with these exact type of issues on a daily basis. I am going to continue to read it and will throw some thoughts over to you as well. I think it's great that you have taken it upon yourself to write such a Great Book. Thanks a Million!

What a profound book. This not only leaves the reader thinking, but also gives hope to those who find themselves in desperate times or situations. You have managed to be positive throughout and entertain your reader while telling a remarkable story. You write this with clarity, passion and a simplicity which many will relate to.
Backed earlier and i'm so glad to keep reading.
Rakhi (Sir William...)

I love this, it contains a truth we should all be living. If we could settle for being the person God created us to be instead of trying to be all things to all people we could have a much more fulfilling like. John 10:10 tells us that a full life is God's plan for us. I pray your book will help some who are struggling to find that life. Alan "The Right Yoke"

ch 5, the colon is the 1st paragraph is incorrect b/c not preceded by a full sentence. ALL of the other colons are perfect! Write on! (pun intended)
in 1st paragraph, omit the semicolon in the last sentence
:)

I think is the chapter I can relate to most...so far.
Have a glorious day!
Sharon

Wow! the new format is solid and seems more polished and professional, yet it retains its friendliness.

In Ch 2 paragraph 2, insert a comma after the "; however" as it is a subordinating conjunction. In paragraph 3, you use a colon twice, which is fine, but colons are supposed to be preceded by a complete sentence. Your first colon is not preceded by a complete sentence, but you used the colon perfectly in the next sentence. Watch your exclamation points. One is always enough. And on a final note, many of your dashes should be commas.

Thank you, again, for writing a piece of work that has so much to offer. We run across so much darkness in print, that the light that shines from Don't Fret is refreshing!
Blessings!
Sharon Cooper

good message, deep emotional depth and a gripping tale that will have you thinking.

Dear Rob --

Wow. I wish that I had read your devotional about 10 years ago; your thoughts on letting go of the "ought-to's and shoulds" and "taking our place" in the world would have saved me a lot of wasted time and effort. I am so glad to have found Don't Fret Over Lost Crackers now, however, because it reminds me of where I've been and not to lose where I'm going. You interweave your personal experiences with religious references in a way that helps clarify both messages, and you do so with humor, compassion, and obvious love.

One tiny nitpick -- punctuation. Misplaced commas, semi-colons, dashes, the whole lot. This is mechanical, however, and easily remedied with an edit for such. It does NOT detract in the least from your well-thought out and articulated arguments.

Thank you for the comfort you have given in Don't Fret Over Lost Crackers. Backed with pleasure. -- Delhui, The Long Black Veil

Rob,

This is a very well done devotional. The title is great! If you get this published, don't let them change the title. I like the short chapters; and for a daily devotional that is all you need. The titles to your chapters are also quite witty, I chuckled at more than a few. You have some great insights and good use of scripture. All in all, well done. You have my backing.

Gregory James

Dear Rob, I got so excited when I saw that you had backed, "He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not." :) Thanks so very much. :) Since I have already "backed" your book, I will put your book on my "watchlist." Could you please take a moment to "back" my completed unedited memoir version? "Tell Me True Love Stories," which at the end tells of my illness now & 6th abusive marriage. I'd be ever so grateful. :) Thank you. :) Love, Susie :)
p.s. Remember: Every time you place a book on your bookshelf, your recommendation pushes the book up the rankings. And while that book sits on your bookshelf, your reputation as a talent spotter increases depending on how well that book performs. :)
When you back a book, it only improves the ranking of that book, not yours. However, the author whose book you are backing may decide to back your book also, in which case yes, your ranking would be improved...authonomy.

Congratulations on publishing your book! Whom is it published through? I want to buy a copy.
Sharon Cooper
Seka

Rob,

Don't Fret Over Lost Crackers: Devotionals for the Worn-Out - A sharing of valuable insights from one Christian to another. ... Give yourself a break ... I tend to think the The Obsessive Compulsive condition could be the inside edge of the guilt induced obedience to others and their demands.
Any kind of compulsion to tell others, or yourself, what your should and ought to do is a stressful condition to live with. Your tone is light and humorous and will come as a relief to many.
Meiste Eckhart, or was it Franz von Assisi, pointed at attitude - God looks at you in the way you look at God ... such is the amazing law of reflection.

Best success. Pia (Course of Mirrors)