I have no idea where the book came from.
I don’t remember buying it, borrowing it, or receiving it as a gift. Nonetheless, one day in January, I stumbled across Paul David Tripp’s, *Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands: People in Need of Change Helping People in Need of Change.
I’d heard great things about the author so I moved the book from the back porch to the vintage ice-cream parlor table. It’s where my Bible, journals, and current studies call home.
I expected a devotional. Instead, I got a well-crafted guide into my own heart, as well as practical help when helping others.
I’ve walked with Jesus for thirty years and I’ve never read a better book that untangles and lays the truth out flat for all to understand.
“Every time you love your enemy, you are resting in the sovereignty of God. Every time you speak lovingly and softly in the face of someone else’s anger, you are choosing to rest in the sovereignty of God. Every time you resist the temptation to win an argument at all costs, you are resting in God’s sovereignty. Because he rules, nothing you do in obedience to him is ever futile. Your life has meaning and purpose because you are included not only in the plan of the One who rules it all, but also in his family!”
The above paragraph is soaked in orange and double-underlined in my book. Maybe it’s because loving my enemy, speaking softly in the face of anger, and resisting the temptation to win an argument does not come naturally. Or maybe it’s because God placed this paragraph in front of me on the very week I needed it most. (Don’t you love it when God does this?)
To know that our seemingly small actions of obedience matter encourage us to make the right choices.
“Any agenda for change must focus on the thoughts and desires of the heart. Therefore, the heart is our target in personal growth and ministry. Our prayer is that God will work heart change in us and use us to produce heart change in others that results in new words, choices, and actions.”
The above excerpt reflects why I believe every believer would benefit from reading *Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands. In shining the light on our own hearts, truth can’t help but also penetrate those God brings across our path.
Is there anything more exciting than knowing God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes? No degree required!
“Since the central character of the great story of Scripture is Christ, a central theme of the story is grace. It must be the central theme of our personal ministry, biblical counseling, and discipleship as well. We point people to a God who not only sets the goal for their lives but who enables them to do what they have never done before. His grace results in reconciliation, restoration, and peace. The impossibility of sinners becoming godly becomes possible through his grace.” One more time.
“The impossibility of sinners becoming godly becomes possible through his grace.”
This book is for pastors, ministries, Bible study leaders, and for women like me who simply want to stay alert to the people God calls me to come alongside for a season. If you appreciate a well-written, not too simple nor too deep kind of book that helps us and others, *Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hand, by Paul David Tripp is a keeper.
“He is the only answer, so we must never offer a message that is less than good news. We don’t offer people a system; we point them to a Redeemer. He is hope.”
During this season of great hope, we’re offering a daily guide to walk with Jesus throughout this week leading up to Easter.
(Members, you’ll find your copy in the monthly letter that was delivered last Tuesday.)
What’s one way you’re reaching out to others? Share in the comment section below to be entered in the giveaway for your own copy of *Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands by Paul David Tripp. A random winner will be notified on Friday.Β
*This is an affiliate link. It adds no cost to the purchase of your book. See policy in the sidebar for more information. Thank you!
Paul David Tripp. His ministry touches my soul as does Andrew Peterson. I haven’t read this book…yet. The Lord and I have worked together to use my voice for His glory and to pay attention to my actions. Oooweee, don’t our actions say a lot about what we “truly” believe about God, about our relationship with Him? Love this!!
Yes, indeed, Charla! This is the first book I’ve read of his but it’s definitely not the last! π
I am reaching out to others by being a Guardian ad Litem for children involved in DSS cases. I speak up for them in court and visit with them monthly.
I can’t imagine anyone doing a better job with this than you. Those children are very blessed. π Thank you for serving them and our community in that way, Linda. Blessings!
Paul Tripp is a great Author. I’m reaching out to others as go to pick up groceries or at other public places. Something I hesitated doing due to the state of society’s heart condition. A lot of hurting people. Yet it is what we who have hope should do. I’m just not keeping my head down. I smile & a smile comes through our eyes even with masks on. I find ways to say thank you to the ones cleaning & spraying the shopping carts. Sometimes it’s little gestures like the ones mentioned and others that may make a difference.
I love this so much, Elaine! “I’m just not keeping my head down. I smile and a smile comes through our eyes even with masks on.” I couldn’t agree more! You’re right — it’s the little gestures that can make the greatest impact. Like leaving a comment, for instance. *wink* π (Thank you for taking the time to encourage us all!)
I’m not familiar with Paul David Tripp, but I am always on the lookout for authors – new to me – that can teach me. I am presently in a class that helps us to see who we are through our personalities, spiritual gifts, etc. and I already know some changes that I need to make to be available more to God. Thanks for always introducing us to new books and authors.
Hi, Melanie! I’d heard of Paul David Tripp but hadn’t read his books. This one will not be the last! Thanks for taking the time to share. π
You always share a smidgen of God’s love in every post Ms. Cathy. Thank you for being such a low-impedance conduit my friend. Mr. Brian will explain. π
Ha!!! Thank you, J.D. π
I am not familiar with this author but from the snippets you shared, I would definitely like to read this book.
Hi, Ann! Fingers crossed. I think you would enjoy this book. I’ll email the random winner on Friday! In the meantime, have a blessed week and thanks for taking the time to share. π
From the samples you shared, this is a fantastic resource, deep and rich. Thank you for sharing this with us, Cathy. π
You’re so welcome, Angie! Blessings!