Project and content management for Contemporary Authors volumes
WORK TITLE: Faith Forward Future: Moving Past Your Disappointments, Delays, and Destructive Thinking
WORK NOTES:
PSEUDONYM(S):
BIRTHDATE: 1979
WEBSITE: https://www.chadveach.org/
CITY: Los Angeles
STATE: CA
COUNTRY: United States
NATIONALITY:
married with three children; http://zoechurch.org/; Zoe Church: 5155 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
RESEARCHER NOTES:
PERSONAL
Born 1979; married; wife’s name Julia; children: Georgia, Winston, and Maverick.
ADDRESS
CAREER
Writer. Zoe Church, lead pastor.
WRITINGS
SIDELIGHTS
Chad Veach is a writer and a pastor. After fifteen years in ministry, Veach founded Zoe Church in Los Angeles. He and his wife serve as lead pastors. Veach has traveled both nationally and internationally to offer pastoral services. Veach and his wife, Julia, have three children: Georgia, Winston and Maverick. The family lives in Los Angeles.
Unreasonable Hope
In Unreasonable Hope: Finding Faith in the God Who Brings Purpose to Your Pain, Veach’s first book, he shares his own experiences dealing with emotional and personal pain. Specifically, the book was inspired by his and his wife’s experience handling their daughter’s lissencephaly diagnosis. Lissencephaly commonly causes seizures, lack of motor skills, movement, speech, and simple body functions, and is often fatal. Veach documents his emotional journey as he found strength in faith and moved through his suffering.
Veach describes feeling hopeless and depressed when the family first received the diagnosis. He goes on to explain to the reader how he was able to remember his faith and find hope for his family through that relationship with God. Unreasonable Hope is divided into four sections: ‘The Struggle,’ ‘The Remedy,’ ‘The Rest,’ and ‘The Better.’ In each section Veach describes his personal experience with pain and faith. He also includes a story from the bible, paralleling a scripture story with that of his own life. The biblical figures he features include Ruth, Abraham, Job, and others. The conclusions of each section include practical advice.
A contributor to Handfuls of Seed website described the book as a “great testimony of faith and hope,” while Andrew Smith in Andrew Smith blog wrote: “If you’re seeking a book on healing, believing, and hoping despite all the challenges you are facing, then read this book.”
Faith Forward Future
In Faith Forward Future: Moving Past Disappointments, Delays, and Destructive Thinking, Veach describes how Christians can move through the experience of disappointment without losing their faith in God. Veach advocates that believers should set aside their disappointments and see the bigger picture of God’s plan. He explains that disappointments are merely God’s way of redirecting individuals on their unique paths, even if it is not the path they had anticipated. Veach uses personal anecdotes from his own life and includes suggestions and practical tips for readers.
A contributor to Publishers Weekly described Faith Forward Future as “passionate, expressive work,” while Zachary Houle in Medium website wrote, “the overall effect of the book is soothing.”
BIOCRIT
PERIODICALS
Publishers Weekly, September 11, 2017, review of Faith Forward Future: Moving Past Your Disappointments, Delays, and Destructive Thinking, p. 60.
ONLINE
Andrew Smith’s Blog, http://runningtowardschrist.blogspot.com/ (April 13, 2018), Andrew Smith, review of Unreasonable Hope: Finding Faith in the God Who Brings Purpose to Your Pain.
Handfuls of Seed, https://handfulsofseed.wordpress.com/ (August 7, 2016), review of Unreasonable Hope.
Medium, https://medium.com/ (November 23, 2017), Zachary Houle, review of Faith Forward Future.
PASTOR CHAD VEACH
Pastor Chad Veach is a leading voice to this generation, who travels both nationally and internationally. He has devoted his life to loving God, loving people, building the local Church. Chad has authored the book, “Unreasonable Hope” and most recently "Faith Forward Future. After 15 years of ministry, Chad is now pioneering Zoe Church. Chad and his wife Julia are serve as Lead Pastors of Zoe Church in Los Angeles, CA. They have three beautiful children: Georgia, Winston and Maverick
Faith Forward Future: Moving Past Your Disappointments, Delays, and Destructive Thinking
Publishers Weekly. 264.37 (Sept. 11, 2017): p60.
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2017 PWxyz, LLC
http://www.publishersweekly.com/
Full Text:
Faith Forward Future: Moving Past Your Disappointments, Delays, and Destructive Thinking
Chad Veach. Thomas Nelson, $26.99 (224p)
ISBN 978-0-7180-3837-3
In this passionate, expressive work, Veach, "millennial pastor" of Zoe Church in Los Angeles, Calif., documents the many challenges he faced while finding his way into the path of Jesus Christ, starting with a wrenching account of his own marital infidelity. Veach lays the groundwork for all believers to discover God's plan for their lives. He knows that many Christians have dreamed of doing great things, only to be met with disappointment. But he argues that believers should look beyond what their senses tell them and instead think of God as an enabler, a friend, and the ultimate guide to a fulfilled life. Veach doesn't trade in spiritual pap; instead, he provides an uplifting message through candid explorations of his own failures. "I get excited, when I think about you reader, because I truly believe that you're on the brink of God's amazing plan for your life," he writes. Those struggling with discerning God's purpose in their lives, wherever they are along their faith journeys, will find encouragement and guidance in this informative book. Agent: Whitney Gossett, the Fedd Agency (Nov.)
Source Citation (MLA 8th Edition)
"Faith Forward Future: Moving Past Your Disappointments, Delays, and Destructive Thinking." Publishers Weekly, 11 Sept. 2017, p. 60. General OneFile, http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A505634954/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=ITOF&xid=cf79e254. Accessed 24 Mar. 2018.
Gale Document Number: GALE|A505634954
A Review of Chad Veach’s “Faith Forward Future”
Dreams of Something Bigger
“Faith Forward Future” Book Cover
Have you ever had a dream that just didn’t work out, for whatever reason? Mine was to be God’s gift to the world of speculative fiction. Needless to say, that didn’t pan out — so here I am blogging, usually about Christian books. I have to wonder if that all was a part of God’s master plan for me all along, to speak what I feel are His truths into words. Ambling along here into my life comes Faith Forward Future, a Christian guide to disappointment, basically. The book is about what happens when your dreams get shattered and how to pick yourself up from it … with God’s help. This tome talks about a lot of things, even giving takaways at the end of sections just to get your wheels spinning again, but the end goal is this: to make a new convert to Christ.
Hmmm. Chad Veach does have some practical tips throughout the book, but the end purpose of doing things as God intended for his master plan smacks a little too closely to predestination for me. I believe we all have free will, and are free to do with that as we choose (even if it’s a bad thing). I don’t think that Veach doesn’t believe that, but he does seem to believe that God wants us to be using our own talents, special as they are, in a way that is part of His master plan, which included bringing Jesus to this earth. And I’m not sure what to make of that.
That all said, Veach is clearly a talented writer and you can see that he had training as a youth leader in ministry, because the book is saturated with references to new technologies and things that are trendy. (Try playing a drinking game every time that Veach writes the word CrossFit … or don’t, says the one-year sober writer here). Veach has a very appealing, charismatic, outgoing personality, and I actually imagined that the book was written with teenagers in mind. (As it probably was). You may have heard all of the Bible stories that Veach uses in the book to illustrate his points, but you’ve never heard them told quite like this — brought up in a contemporary frame of reference.
The good thing is that even if you’re wary that this book is just another conversion tool for the evangelical church (as I feel that faith is an individual, personal decision that requires no arm-twisting), Veach does seem to believe in a God that offers correction, but not of the fire and brimstone kind, which sits well with me. Honestly, even with the book’s outcome, I felt that Faith Forward Future is not a harmful text. You know, other religions don’t get snubbed, which is refreshing to read. And I like the way that Veach illustrated each of his chapters by culling examples from his own life. The book is not a spiritual memoir, but it kind of sometimes feels that it is. (I especially appreciated the story of Veach’s mother convincing him to run a half marathon with her).
I guess I’m not sure what to say about this book. Did I enjoy it? Sure. Did I agree with large parts of it? Absolutely. Do I think Veach’s message needs to be heard by some. Yep, yep, and yep. I suppose my slight sense of discomfort is that the book could have been more pointed and prescriptive about what you need to do to surmount disappointment. Yes, the book has those “takeaways” and I’m sure it would be impossible for the author to offer different advice for everyone he wants to include — when we all have walked different roads of heartbreak and have different needs. Veach even admits this to himself. However, I thought that some of the mental exercises seemed weak, and what the book could have been suffused with is a good discussion group questions section to use as a jumping board to a broader conversation in the comfort of the reader’s own church.
Still, Faith Forward Future is pleasant enough. I love the message that God never gives up on us humans, even when we stumble again and again (a message I needed to hear as I now grapple with an addiction to nicotine). The overall effect of the book is soothing, which might be what some readers might need to feel. And I kinda liked Veach’s sense of humor, as contemporary and “hip” as it may be. You get the sense that he’s a straight-shooter and tells it like it is, which, to be truthful, we all need from time to time. Beyond that, I felt the book was lacking a certain je ne sais quoi. It’s intangible and hard to put a finger on, but I think it has to do with the book trying to be everything to everyone.
Perhaps if Veach had narrowed his focus, and only spoke to artsy types (for instance) the book would have packed more of a punch — which is quite a thing to say considering that, by the end, it is a pretty powerful message that it offers (even if you don’t fully agree with it). Still, it’s a good book in that it teach us to put our faith in a power greater than ourselves, something I’ve been working on this past year, and something that has brought true results. So maybe there’s something to what Veach is selling after all. Faith Forward Future is a conversion text, sure, but — as these things go — it’s a pretty good one. It doesn’t offend too much, and swings with a from-the-hip attitude. If that’s something that you feel is lacking in your life, there are worse things you could do than picking up a copy of this book.
Chad Veach’s Faith Forward Future: Moving Past Your Disappointments, Delays, and Destructive Thinking will be published by Thomas Nelson on November 28, 2017.
Of course, if you like what you see, please recommend this piece (click on the clapping hands icon below) and share it with your followers.
Zachary Houle
Book Review: Unreasonable Hope, Finding Faith in the God Who Brings Purpose to Your Pain by Chad Veach
Date: August 7, 2016
Author: Handfuls of Seed
0 Comments
Pain may be real, but so is God’s ability to pull us out of it. (p.113)
https://unreasonablehope.org
About the author: Chad Veach is the pastor of Zoe Church in Los Angelas, California. Chad and his wife Julia, have three beautiful children Georgia, Winston, and Maverick. (copied from the back cover)
About the book: “Where was God when ____? How could God allow ____? Why?”
These are the questions that flood our hearts and minds when the unimaginable happens. When things go horribly wrong and the world seems to be unraveling, how do you believe in God’s goodness? How do you cling to hope?
Chad Veach directs readers away from clichéd Sunday school answers that fail to offer real comfort or provide faith-building insights. Instead, he draws from God’s promises in the Bible and from the story of his own daughter’s diagnosis of a devastating and debilitating disease to reveal simple, purposeful steps for dealing with pain. Resting in God’s love, remembering his past faithfulness, and realizing the distinction between having faith and clinging to hope are just some of these steps.
Veach reminds us that because we know who God is, we know there is hope. (copied from the back cover)
I am pleased to begin my analysis of theodicies with this book, Unreasonable Hope. This book is not academic, nor does Veach try to explain suffering. He does share about the suffering that he and his family experience. He does not complain, and they do not merely endure. The Veach family has learned how to absorb the difficult realities of suffering, and they remain hopeful about the possible healing of their daughter Georgia.
The book is divided into four parts.
Part 1. The Struggle
Part 2. The Remedy
Part 3. The Rest
Part 4. The Better
Each part contains a few chapters and then a conclusion. I really enjoyed the conclusions because they offer practical advice in a numerical sequence. Each conclusion was very helpful, and I couldn’t help but conclude each part encouraged by what I read. Unreasonable Hope is really a biography of Chad and Julia Veach. Their daughter suffers from a rare brain disorder that involves seizures, lack of motor skills, movement, speech, and simple body functions. Lissencephaly is a debilitating disorder, and in most cases terminal.
Chad explains how, and when they find out about their daughters disorder. He explains how they learned to cope, after many months of frustration and fear. Over time Georgia has become well known, and the Veaches have gained a network of loving and supporting friends. Chad takes great care to express his gratitude towards God and others as he writes about the many blessings that they have experienced, despite suffering.
In each Chapter Chad parallels a story in the Bible with one of his own. His purpose, I believe, to share and explain how God used stories in the Bible to strengthen him. He used stories about Ruth, Abraham, Job, and many others. I appreciate the way he told each Bible story. He truly is a story teller, he shared the Bible in such a fun way, at times I couldn’t help but chuckle. He also has a great sense of humor, you must read the book. I couldn’t help but laugh as I shared one story with my wife and children, a story about a hat. If you are curious you will have to read the book.
Near the end of the book Chad explains the difference between faith and hope. I appreciate the word hope; I can relate to what he is teaching. Faith is believing in something, hope is anticipating something great. Ironically, just today my wife and I bought a large sign (about 10″x 2′) spelling out the word HOPE. And it has little light bulbs all throughout, it is a fantastic sign.
This book is a great testimony of faith and hope. I believe that this book has/will inspire others. Instead of becoming depressed about suffering, and instead of becoming bitter, there are others who testify about the continual love and blessing of God, a better alternative. If someone in your family is sick, or if someone you love is suffering and you wonder why, or if you are experiencing a difficult time, but you cannot seem to find God or experience His presence, I encourage you to read this book. Chad and Julia can empathize with what you are going through, and through this book they are trying to encourage you. Walk with them in their story as Chad uses biblical examples and wisdom to find hope in the midst of suffering.
In exchange for an honest review, BookLookBloggers has provided me with a review copy of this book. I have written an honest review.
Share this:
Press ThisFacebook2LinkedInTwitter
BOOK REVIEWBOOK REVIEWSCHAD VEACHCHRISTIANITYFAITHGEORGIAGEORGIA VEACHHOPEJESUSLISSENCEPHALYPAINSUFFERINGUNREASONABLE HOPE
Published by Handfuls of Seed
I want to share with others what I have studied, what I have been taught, what I have read, and my experience as a Christian. Despite my limited experience and study, I continue to learn with purpose. I hope that I can encourage and help to edify others. View all posts by Handfuls of Seed
Post navigation
PREVIOUS
Previous post:Giveaway: Twenty-Five Dollar Coupon/Family Christian Store
NEXT
Next post:Psalm 23.4: No Fear in the Valley
LEAVE A REPLY
Unreasonable Hope: Finding Faith in the God Who Brings Purpose to Your Pain by Chad Veach Book Review
Posted by Andrew Smith at 8:26 PM
In Unreasonable Hope, Chad Veach explored the importance of clinging onto hope in the mist of the storms and trials we have to endure in this life. Chad Veach shared about how their first child, Georgia was diagnosed with lissencephaly. Many children die before they turn the age of ten years old. This disorder affects her brain and it causes her not to function. She has horrible seizures that can happen at any time and it even caused her to throw up her food. She struggled gaining weight and they eventually had to have a feeding tube put in. Like most parents, they struggled with coming into terms with why God allowed their little girl to be born with a rare brain disorder. They were broken and heartbroken about the lost dreams for their daughters. Chad Veach admits it was difficult seeing other children walking, talking, and running and deep down he longed for Georgia to be able to do that. Throughout the book, Chad Veach revealed what he learned about trusting God through it all, believing that God is able to heal us, and having hope despite all the negative reports.
I would recommend this life changing book to anyone who is longing for healing in their life and they are struggling with believing and hoping that all things are possible through Christ. This is the first time, I heard about Georgia’s story and I was amazed at reading how real Chad Veach was in sharing his frustrations and how he found his hope in God. I liked how he shared that many people prayed for Georgia’s healing and some even got G-tattoos to show their full support. This book was a wonderful reminder that God is able to heal us and He is with us always and He won’t forsake us. I’m currently seeking healing from whatever sickness is attacking my physical body. I have been to numerous doctors and had a head MRI and CAT scan. None of the doctors can figure out why my immune system is low. All they can do is provide blood infusions which I’m not doing right now. They are trying antibiotics as of right now. I will admit there are days where I’m ready to give up and I’m losing hope that tomorrow will be better. This book helped to refocus and place my hope in God and that He is able to rebuild my immune system to the normal levels. If you’re seeking a book on healing, believing, and hoping despite all the challenges you are facing, then read this book!
"I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program."
If you would like to purchase a copy of Unreasonable Hope, check it out on Amazon.com:
https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hope-Finding-Brings-Purpose/dp/0718038347
Labels: book review , BookLook Bloggers , Chad Veach , christian living , Finding Faith in the God Who Brings Purpose to Your Pain , Thomas Nelson , Unreasonable Hope