Book Jacket

 

rank 328
word count 27444
date submitted 08.05.2012
date updated 26.02.2013
genres: Instructional, Harper True Life, Ch...
classification: universal
complete

With All My Mind

Lyn Ventura

A friend's words,"Let your scars tell God's story," gave birth to this devotional designed to minister to the mentally ill and those who love them.

 

The challenges we face being mentally ill are many. The condition is not widely understood in society, let alone in the church. There are ministries for the divorced, ministries for the addicted, men and women's ministries, but there aren't ministries (in most churches) for those with an illness of the mind.This book is that ministry. It is full of devotions designed to encourage faith as well as mental wellness. It shines the light of Christ into the dark world of mental illness.

 
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, abused, best friend, bible, bipolar, challenging, christ, christian, christian living, christianity, church, confession, counseling, devotional, enc...

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Jerianne wrote 45 days ago

Lyn, Thank you for writing this book! I love the way you begin and end with the scripture! My sister suffers from Bi-polar disorder. This is making complete sense to me. Thank you for guiding others with like and similar mental illness to Christ's healing power!... You actually write like a minister. It's great.

Jeri

TAPPING INTO PRAYER wrote 100 days ago

Lyn, your short chapters read like a daily devotional. I really appreciate the way you encourage people living with mental illness to seek community. Chapter 14 especially spoke to me about the healing power of prayer. I believe that God desires us to know peace, and will work with us toward that end. My book offers a way of praying that helps people focus their prayers. I would appreciate your feedback on it.
peace,
todd farnsworth
A Users Guide to Tapping Prayer

Janet/Helen wrote 107 days ago

With All My Mind. Chapters 1 - 4 inc.

A very powerful opening chapter, followed by three of the most genuine and helpful chapters anyone could wish for. This book should be read, not only by Authonomites, but by anyone who feels lost and in need of guidance. Very well written and deserving of success. 6 stars. Janet

Janet/Helen
The Stranger In My Life

Labradors and cappuccino wrote 112 days ago

Lyn, thanks so much for your praise for my book. I have just read part of yours and I thank you for your honesty about your struggles with this little understood illness. I like the way you write. It is clear and to the point. High stars and backed for now.

Labradors and cappuccino wrote 112 days ago

Lyn, thanks so much for your praise for my book. I have just read part of yours and I thank you for your honesty about your struggles with this little understood illness. I like the way you write. It is clear and to the point. High stars and backed for now.

wagnerco wrote 115 days ago

This is true... Our scars are our testimonies. I enjoyed the style of writing, and like how you translated tis book into a ministry. The devotions encouraged me, as I am going through some rough times, but I know that God is able, as you have reminded me in your book. I gladly backed this book ,and I know if this encouraged me, many others will be encouraged. Great job, and I hope that you get a chance to read my story. Backed with pleasure and highly rated.

LCF Quartet wrote 115 days ago

Hi Lyn,
I read until the end of Chapter 4 and wish I could read more. But I certainly will when I have the chance again. Your belief, love and experience is significant in every single line. You write from the heart, thus your story flows well and touched the heart of this reader for its sincerity:))

My mother also suffered from bi-polar disorder, so I know exactly what you've been sharing with us here on Authonomy. It's only God who can help us, we are His reflections on Earth.

I also liked the way you structured the book with various aspects. The emotional part and the miraculous side of well-being is reflected very powerfully.
Thanks for sharing and well-deserved 6 full stars,
Lucette- Ten Deep Footprints

lexington_ky_writer wrote 118 days ago

Lyn, your book is a tremendous success with or without publishing. it has obviously been very theraputic for you and will touch many more lives than what it already has. Continue your prusuit. It is very well written. Kerry.

Dr. Surya Kumar Daimari wrote 122 days ago

Hi Lyn, I just love your book since you wrote it from the bottom of your heart with all your mind, from the bottom of your life experience and from the bottom of your faith in God. I could get the feel of your pains, the struggles, all the sufferings of mental illness and then the solace of your heart, the joy, the love and the hope that rest in our Loving Heavenly Father. Wonderful ! This book will serve as a therapy (and you as a spiritual therapist) to those millions suffering in the same way. Love, joy, peace, hope, longsuffering----are the ingredients of our human life without which our life is a cripple. You have shown the way right to the Truth—Jesus—a new hope to those hopeless, peace to those suffering, love to those who feel deprived of , a Heavenly Father to those fatherless, a Heavenly Home to those homeless. Any one whoever will read this book be able to feel the touch of God’s miraculous healing.
I can see that your book is all embracing both in matter and spirit. The style of writing is indeed simple yet graceful. And this is the quality of a great literature. As a Christian literature , it’s one of the best presenting the message of love of God to the needy and suffering. I cannot resist giving you Highest stars.
Surya,
The Names of the Believers in the Bible.

lexington_ky_writer wrote 125 days ago

Lyn, Good evening. You speak well of the Truth. Mental Illness has been so misunderstood and not given the attention for so many years. My sister in law has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. It iI fs a very lonely illness. Iknow it is a phyisiologicial disorder, but I firmly believe the lack of spiritual direction plays its part. You have written from the heart and soul. Your message should be well received. I want to see this body of work be a success. It deserves its place at the top. kerry

KMac23 wrote 130 days ago

Lyn,
I took a second look at all your chapters and still feel this is such a positive piece of work. I think a lot of people can probably identify with feeling isolated and how difficult it can be. I like how your book points us to Jesus, the one who can be there when there is no one else, and we find ourselves afraid to love.

I think your writing style is clear, succinct and easy to read. Your chapters are short, but descriptive and teach so many important biblical lessons. I liked it when you said God can use you, even when you’re ill. I think ill could be substituted for a lot of different types of weaknesses. And the fact that we can remember that God can use us, even when we aren’t at our best, is so encouraging.

There were words I needed to hear tonight in your chapters. I need to remember that when we open our heart to God, he is listening and working for our glory and good. I think your book ultimately teaches that no matter what is going on with us and in times when our hope feels gone, God is faithful and will be there in the midst of it.

I still regard your work highly and wish you the best, Kara

Peter B wrote 130 days ago

Been there, done that, got the T-shirt, tape and bumper sticker. You're just jealous cause the little voices only tell ME to set fire to stuff. Life is a scrimmage between warring members, and inside each of us is the battleground. I like how you provide the answer to this frustrating condition from the only One able to tame our innermost rage in the cage. Solid grounding in the Designer will give us the strength and frame of mind to overcome our destructive tendencies. Excellent advice for those of us who are living tales that witness madness. Good job, Peter B.
"The Bible I Thought I Knew"

CATHERINE SHAW wrote 153 days ago

Lovely book. I can identify with it so well. Top stars!!

evermoore wrote 156 days ago

God bless your heart. What you have given us by your hard work in this book, is such a gift. It is a must read for one and all...and I'm certain it will be published one day. It needs to be. Your honesty in your struggles tugs my heart. That your faith is so strong and so clearly stated, is a lesson for us all. Thank you, Lyn. Six stars and a place on my watchlist to revisit your wise, heartfelt words.

God bless..
Linda

Seringapatam wrote 157 days ago

I loved this and I liked the way you voice your belief. it really is inspirational. I hope people can see what you have put into this and dont see it as something you have just 'Put down in writing'. It is fantastic and well done.
Sean

PTingen wrote 262 days ago

Lyn,

I just read the first 5 chapters of your lovely book. It's beautifully written and clearly straight from your heart to your readers. Thank you for your vulnerability in discussing your own struggles and the encouragement that you're giving to others in similar situations. Your book is full of hope and I love your use of scriptures and how you tie them into your writing.

I wish you all the best with this.

Many blessings!

Patti

Kerron Lee wrote 264 days ago

A timely , well written book that tackles the rather sensitive issue of mental illness, strips it of some of the misguided notions, and shows it for what it is- an illness, but thankfully, an illness that can be managed spirit ually, and physically.

LianneLB wrote 273 days ago

I really enjoyed your opening, and descriptions of what it is like to be bi-polar. I think it's important people understand about the illness. You tell an important story, and I'm glad you found God to help you get through it all. I was drawn to your book as someone who has written a non-fiction novel about depression and post traumatic stress, and I could see myself in your character. Although I'm not religious and found other ways through, I did enjoy reading about the strength faith gave your main character. Good luck with this

Lianne
Big Girl Lost

KMac23 wrote 274 days ago

CCRG Review

Lyn, What a beautiful way to share your own discoveries in healing! Right away, I felt so moved by the story of the woman bent and crippled, and as I read through your chapters found them so full of God’s love and his help he gives. I loved the poetry and the verses you shared, and your faith in a God who can heal in so many ways. I love how you show that Bi-polar is a disease not immune to God’s miraculous touch. It seems a futile illness with no hope, and yet your story does show there is a way through it. God is the one who sees us, even when the world doesn’t understand, one of my favorite verses. I commend you for your writing skill and your wonderful story!

Kara
A Gate Called Beautiful

ron mahler wrote 294 days ago

Lyn, the portions of your book that I read, are very moving (an understatement). I love your writing style: it is simple yet laced with profundity and profitable scriptures intertwined. I must admit that even though I know very little about mental illness, I was educated by you in the midst of your story. Your courage and burden to help and encourage others, is quite obvious through your writing. I will continue to revisit your book, as it has left me wanting more.

Hang in there with the Lord, my sister.

God bless you.

ron mahler

julievanmeter wrote 295 days ago

Beautiful, descriptive writing. I love the raw emotion in your words and felt as if I was right there, experiencing each scene with you. Six stars!

Lenny Banks wrote 301 days ago

Hi Lyn, I read chapters 4 and 5. You do have a way of passing your enthusiasm and passion into the work you do, and it is clear you are strong in faith and that this has helped you a great deal. I feel this book would be very inspirational for many people. Well done.
Kindest Regards and Best Wishes
Lenny Banks - Tide and Time: At The Rock.

SteveSeven wrote 310 days ago

CCRG Review,
Dear Lyn,
You have written a great inspirational book here. I was especially impressed with the intro and the scene by the beach with the 'dream-like' imagery. Your descrition of being taken over by feelings of depression and self-destruct are something that many people would identify with and they would be drawn into your book. The phrase that you wanted to "blend into the painted walls" created a very strong image that underlined the feelings of isolation and confusion that you are describing.
The first chapter pointed nicely to the rest of the book with its optimism and hopefullness.
In chapter 2 I liked your meditation on Luke 13 10-13 and this was an effective way to really start getting to grips with the way that the Bible has helped you. Your theme for the chapter that we have to make the decision to care for ourselves is a good progression in the unfolding of your themes.
This flow carries into chapter three when you introduce the concept with the Mother Theresa quote and your own testimony of the interconnection of love and pain. Again, this is something that almost everyone will identify with and you handle it well
Chapter 4 on the angels was not what I had expected and the qu.from your therapist "what evidence have you for that thought?" followed by your emphasis on the people who have helped you being your angels was a lovely way to handle the subject. I think that it is important for people to keep their feet planted on the ground and concentrate on this life in this world and you bring that message to the reader very well.
Ch.s 5 and 6 fit together nicely and, again, your own testimony of the interconnection of pain and love illustrate a very profound theme in an easy to understand way. The way that you deal with the situation of locking up our hearts is sensitive and will challenge people about issues of faith and trust in a subtle and positive way.
Again you progress to the next theme of fellowship well by introducing in the 7th chapter the need for prayer and the power of group prayer. This themes that you introduce naturally complement each other and they flow very well togethr in your devotional.
After ch 7 I read the lat two chapters on dealing with doubt and bringing joy into one's life and they also were well handled with a sensitive spirit and nicel confirmed by scripture and life experience.
All in all you have an easy to follow book that flows from subject to subject well. Your writing is colorful and inspiring.
A great book.
God bless you, Steve

Chris Whitson wrote 315 days ago

Dear Lyn, This book is Glorious! Each inspiring chapter makes one stop and reflect. You have a unique and beautiful way of making sense of life and faith. This is a comforting, moving, and healing book. It has something to offer evryone. A wonderful daily read. I am so grateful that you have shared With All My Mind with All of us!
Needless to say, I support this book and you.
God Bless.
Chris Whitson/ A SPICY HURRICANE

TDonna wrote 323 days ago

Lyn, I read through ch 12 and was thoroughly encouraged by each chapter. This is a wonderful guide into daily fellowship with Him. As you wrote, "every day is an opportunity to trust Him."

Donna
No Kiss Good-bye

SteveSeven wrote 326 days ago

Dear Lynn,

You have written with an insight and sensitivity that will touch many people as I have been touched. I am impressed with the way that you handle such themes as praying for forgiveness as part of the process of turning or mind over to God. I have this book on my bookshelf to support it all the way. kind regards, Steve

FRAN MACILVEY wrote 326 days ago

Lyn

This is a very strong, articulate account and I applaud your honesty. Truly, in reading what you write about we understand that you have "been there, done that!" which is so much part of the power of your words. I am glad to have read three chapters this afternoon!

Bless you. Highly rated indeed.

Fran Macilvey, "Happiness Matters" :-))

Keith Gilbey wrote 330 days ago

Lyn,

What an extraordinarily brave book! I have thus far read only the first three chapters - but I intend to carry on reading. You are quite right about the way that we brush mental illness under teh carpet - particularly in the established church where it is seen as a mystery to be avoided.

All the best
Keith Gilbey
Peppermint.

Kenneth Edward Lim wrote 332 days ago

Lyn,
How wonderful to come upon a book like yours. I know people diagnosed as bipolar and every little bit of new informatioin regarding the condition would help me in my interaction with them. Your approach from a Christian perspective provides a person so afflicted, with a way out of depression that is normally overwhelming. The Scriptures are rife with balms for a suffering soul who would normally contemplate suicide to silence his internal demons. The way out is clearly through Christ. Thank you so much for sharing.

Kenneth Edward Lim
The North Korean

Scratchingthesurface wrote 333 days ago

lynn, i read chapter one and i already love it. it strikes so many chords and flows very smoothly. i found myself lost in the word which pulled up emotions in me. you are a great writer and i look forward to reading more, jesse

TDonna wrote 333 days ago

Dear Lynn, after devouring the first three chapters, this is a book I want to read through to the last word. It's inspiring, encouraging, it's packed with power. Highly starred based on what I've read thus far, it's on my WL for now, and will comment again after I dig in deeper into your story. Wonderfully written!
Donna
(No Kiss Good-bye)

mistybrooke wrote 335 days ago

Lynn,

Thank you for commenting on my book. I just read your profile and pitch for "With All my Mind". It looks very interesting. I've never heard of a book similar to "With All My Mind". This is very needed by many people. Thank you for your vulnerability!! I have added you on my watchlist!!! (Oh my goodness, I just noticed it is rank 522!!!! Good Going Lyn!!!!! God Bless and take care.

Patricia Laster wrote 336 days ago

Oh, Lyn, what a beautiful, beautiful true story and I say that as a person as well as a psychologist! Your story was tremendously sad, then tremendously uplifting to read. If I were still teaching, it would be required reading for my classes. Thank you for your courage, for the simple resiliency of your spirit, for your faith in and love for God. Your story has touched my heart and moved me to tears and then to prayers of praise! What an awesome message our Lord has given to you and I truly wish you the best in pursuing the publication of your amazing story.

Oh my, how clearly and poignantly you describe the tremendous battle which you have fought. ln your victory can be found the difference between joy and despair, between hope and helplessness, between purpose and emptyness. You know your scripture! You have researched well, and what you say is truly grounded in the Word of God.

You touched me deeply, Lyn, as your story will touch the most insensitve heart. It is immensely honest and well grounded in God's truths. Simply put, your story ministered to my heart and soul and blessed me this very day.

Thank you, thank you for the hope it provides, for the faith it displays, and for pointing to the peace and joy that can be found only in the Lord. Praise God for you. Praise God for your book! Prayers, Pat

RMAWriteNow wrote 336 days ago

Lyn; I have a brother who has been mentally I'll for a long time. To be honest, I have turned my back on him as he has on himself. After reading this it has changed my view quite drastically on him. You will have to believe me when I say that I thought that was an impossibility, until now. I don't think I can say anymore in praise of your book than that and instead would rather thank you.
The highest of starrings
RMA
The Snow Lily
Sea Spray and Stars

Elizabeth Kathleen wrote 345 days ago

Lyn this is such a nice book! I loved the chapter on the humble prayer. I think my favorite quote is, "Our future is not dictated by the past and every day is a new opportunity to trust God." That's beautiful! I pray God blesses your writing! God bless you and yours!!
Elizabeth Kathleen
"If Children Are Cheaper by the Dozen, Can I Get a Discount on Six?"

Lacydeane wrote 346 days ago

This is an amazing book. Your writing is clean and easy to read. I loved it. You have a great way of sharing your story with the reader and adding Jesus to it. This is a book I would buy. You are a very good writer. Many blessings of success, 6 stars. Lacy

Kerrie Price wrote 348 days ago

Dear Lyn, this is for CCRG -
I love your book, because I can see how many people it will help. Your writing is strong, clear and well reasoned, and the factual way you present God's love and healing power as the answer to the need of every person's life, is just beautiful. It is helpful - not preachy, and very convincing since it is based on your own experience. You are a good writer. Your thoughts are well ordered and lovingly expressed. I think the first chapter is perfect to draw the reader in, and gives a strong impression that you know what you're talking about and can offer real help.

I have given your book six stars and will put it on my shelf as soon as I can get to a PC. (I am using an iPad at present).

Kerrie Price
THE GOD PLEASERS

Lyn Ventura wrote 348 days ago

Dear Lyn,
I read all 27 chapters, which says it all. This is well proportioned, easily readable, contains the basic truths and equips the reader with good advice of what is important. Have you thought of becoming a teacher? Best wishes. Backed.
Ame



Hi again Ame, :)

Its funny you should mention teaching. I recently went to Haiti where I (quite "accidentally," the other speaker got sick.) led a 4 day women's conference. They want me to return, but I have been really reluctant because I don't feel like I am a teacher. But then I think..well, I'm not, but the Holy Spirit is. So I am still seeking God's leading on that. Meanwhile I'm scheduled to share a little at a women's luncheon later on this month. I'm a little shy so I'm nervous, but I am going to step out in faith for Jesus. Thanks for the encouragement. :)

Blessings,
Lyn

zap wrote 348 days ago

Dear Lyn,
I read all 27 chapters, which says it all. This is well proportioned, easily readable, contains the basic truths and equips the reader with good advice of what is important. Have you thought of becoming a teacher? Best wishes. Backed.
Ame

iandsmith wrote 350 days ago

I could identify with the descriptions of rage followed by childish enthusiasm. Very well written, I'll be reading more - Ian

fatema wrote 350 days ago

Hi, you are strong. Fear, yes we fear lots of things.
A pain is part of shaping us.
You have faith after all the best cure. Weldone.

Su Dan wrote 353 days ago

fascinating read: good writing, too, well set out and thought through...
l will back.
read SEASONS...

Cariad wrote 356 days ago

Touchingly written, very real. I have a family member with bi-polar, and it was sad, too. Your writing style is just right - personal, honest and revealing, but without overindulging or senstationalising. People will know you speak from the heart. I hope you do well with it.

mariat wrote 362 days ago

“Lyn, you write beautifully, and the message is profound and important. I just wanted to take the time to encourage you to continue writing.”

DoninMich wrote 363 days ago

Lyn,

I have been reading you story. I am glad you gave the biblical basis and included the verses. This is suppose to be a Christian threat and too often the stories are just the same as any other story of the world. I am also incouraged by including a mental illness. I have multiple disabilities of which Schizophrenia is one. I cannot imagine living with it without Christ. I live daily with the strong urge to withdrawal from other people like 90% of others with the disease.

I like your chapters as short but clear. Some chapters here go on and on with no since of structure. You have done a lot of work on this and it shows.

I do think there is some work to be done. The story in chapter one is good and shows a basis for the book. However, the second chapter pulls the reader out of the story and into a narration. It's better to let the characters carry on the events to show not tell what is happening. You destroy the story by inserting the narrative without any explanation. I would think you will need to rewrite the whole second chapter to correct this.

Chapter three cuts back to another story and confuses me. Becareful about introducing too many characters too close together. In my story "The Unholy Trinity," I had to bring first the furture antichrist then go to the students studying the title event and then the third chapter went to the false prophet. These three chapters repeat in a cycle until the Rajpture and then the students are replaced by new believers in the Tribulation. The story is based on the some overlooked verses of the Bible. Check it out. Then see the other two stories "Demon War" and "Time of Jacob's Trouble."

Keep up the hard work. I am always open for corrections.

Don R. Budd

faith rose wrote 363 days ago

Dear Lyn,

Your beautiful cover and title caught my eye, and I just had to dip into your piece for a few minutes this morning. Wow. This is a wonderful, heartfelt, well-written piece. I can see this bringing such strength and encouragement to many struggling souls. Your honesty is rare, and your vulnerablity is so very admirable. You walk along with the reader and truly show the weakness of our humanity and the hardships of a "crooked life." I love the way this piece is organized, too. The short chapters make this very readable and engaging. Also, your use of scripture is so meaningful, particularly to the actual verses/passages you have chosen. This book will go very far. Giving you many stars. A beautiful, inspiring, vital piece.

All the very best,
Faith Rose
Now To Him

Lyn Ventura wrote 364 days ago

Thanks Shelby! :)


The new cover is very eye catching.
:-)

Shelby Z./Driving Winds

Shelby Z. wrote 364 days ago

The new cover is very eye catching.
:-)

Shelby Z./Driving Winds

M.T.H wrote 364 days ago

Chapter 2 finished. Still engaged with it and finding it very interesting.. one niggle... icy blue eyes?

M.T.H wrote 364 days ago

Wow, what an opening... dis-ease... 'ease' an absolutely fantastic play on words; and so apt.
Hi, I sent you an email a few days ago (my son and his girlfriend?)
I'll read on.
M.

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