Grumble Hallelujah

Scripture tells us to “give thanks in all circumstances” and to “rejoice at all times.” Hundreds of passages refer to praising God. Certainly God calls us to a life of praise and thanksgiving. But anyone who has lived on this broken earth knows that this call is not always easy.

Caryn Dahlstrand Rivadeneira’s book, Grumble Hallelujah—Learning to Love Your Life Even When It Lets you Down addresses different times and circumstances that get in the way of living a life of praise. Each chapter encourages the reader to “let go” of something that pulls our focus from God and from how praise-worthy He is—letting go of the life that was supposed to be, letting go of the tough girl act, letting go of fear and control, letting go of judgment, and so on.

I enjoyed reading this book. Some chapters were more applicable and helpful to me than others of course, but throughout each chapter, the author encourages the reader to continue to praise and honor God, even if we can only manage to “grumble a hallelujah.” The author’s openness about her own struggles was helpful as well and I could identify with some of them. I think Grumble Hallelujah has a message well worth reading.

I’m giving this book 4/5 stars.

I received a free review copy of this book from Tyndale House publishers in exchange for my honest review.