Nobody Told Me That the Road Would Be Easy: Devotions for People Working for Justice and Peace

"Nobody Told Me That the Road Would Be Easy: Devotions for People Working for Justice and Peace" by Floyd Thompkins Jr. is an exquisite and profoundly moving collection of devotions that speaks directly to the hearts and souls of individuals dedicated to fighting for justice and peace in our world. With wisdom, empathy, and spiritual insight, Thompkins provides a guiding light, offering solace, encouragement, and inspiration on the challenging path of advocacy.From the very first page, Thompkins captures the essence of what it means to be an agent of change. Through his heartfelt words, he addresses the struggles, doubts, and emotional toll that often accompany the tireless pursuit of justice. He acknowledges the hurdles faced by those working towards a better world, reminding readers that they are not alone in their battles and that their efforts matter.What sets this book apart is its deep understanding of the intersection between faith and activism. Thompkins skillfully weaves together scriptural passages, spiritual teachings, and personal anecdotes to create devotions that are both spiritually grounding and intellectually stimulating. He helps readers forge a connection between their inner spiritual journey and their outward commitment to justice, providing a holistic approach that nurtures the whole person.Thompkins' words are as practical as they are profound. Each devotion offers tangible guidance, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and take meaningful action. Whether it's encouraging self-care practices, advocating for marginalized voices, or fostering community engagement, the author's suggestions are rooted in real-world applicability. His wisdom empowers readers to transform their ideals into concrete steps that contribute to positive change.The book's structure, consisting of daily devotions, is a testament to its accessibility and adaptability. It allows readers to engage with the material at their own pace and return to specific devotions whenever they need reassurance or a gentle reminder. The brevity of each devotion ensures that even the busiest individuals can find time for reflection, making it an ideal companion for those juggling multiple responsibilities.Thompkins' compassionate and empathetic tone resonates throughout the book, creating a safe space for readers to explore their own emotional landscape. He acknowledges the emotional toll that activism can take and offers comfort and encouragement. By validating the struggles and doubts of advocates, he instills a sense of hope and resilience, reminding them of the importance of self-care and perseverance.In "Nobody Told Me That the Road Would Be Easy," Floyd Thompkins Jr. has crafted a masterpiece that nourishes the souls of individuals dedicated to justice and peace. With profound insights, actionable guidance, and a spirit of unwavering support, this book serves as an invaluable companion on the journey of advocacy. It is a beacon of light that renews our commitment to creating a more equitable and compassionate world.

One hope of one who teaches is to arrive at a time when the student returns the favor. In this book of devotions, Floyd Thomkins, my student in the early decade of my years as a professor at Bethany College teaches me new and powerful insights on God’s call to work for justice and peace embodied in the words of Micah 6:8. The book provides a six week journey, that begins each week with a call to worship, followed by five daily devotions that deepen and extend a single theme. Each week we are called to begin with a time of loving God, followed over the next few days linking that love with love for our neighbor as well as caring love for ourselves. Floyd describes these times of daily devotion as being “brief but not short.” The words are indeed quite short in terms the time it takes to read them but written with such eloquence and insight that they demand savoring each word with that has been crafted so carefully they demand lingering for a time to allow them to penetrate our soul. Written by a deeply committed Christian, these devotionals can be experienced by others who live by other faith commitments or none at all, but who care deeply for justice and peace in our divided and hurting world. Rev, Dr. Carl Hansen, President Emeritus, Midland University.

This devotional wastes no time... IN THE BEGINNING...Just like Genesis heralds the start and sets the tone for all that is to follow, the first call to worship in Nobody Told Me That The Road Would Be Easy announces that you will be both challenged and refreshed by this book. You receive the reassurance that the call of God to the work of seeing justice brought into the earth does not place an unbearable burden on your shoulders-- HIS BURDEN -- carried and owned by God is light for us, when we lift our assigned portion. However, we are also reminded that there IS a responsibility given to us by God that we cannot ignore to work AND to rest in the assurance that the outcome of labor is in God's hands, and God has it well under control. "Fight for justice and remain at peace." Reverend Floyd Thompkins, in the way that only he can, helps us to do both by focusing us in on the critical acts of worship and hearing what God is saying to His people in this tumultuous season. You NEED to read this, and make sure that your co-laborers do so as well! I made sure to get extra copies for sharing with mine!