“God gives us a plentiful supply of resources to help us thrive; robust scriptural promises, intimate caring relationships, a generous supply of buoyant faith-filled, life-saving instruction. As we flourish, so do all those who come into contact with us.”
     --- Michele Howe, Introduction

“What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again, there is nothing new under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 1:9 NIV) King Solomon, traditionally thought to have written this Old Testament book, was perhaps right. Though circumstances and cultural changes have continued to evolve over the years, human nature has remained much the same as it was since the beginning. We enjoy the benefits of knowing God, but following His rules…not so much. However, although there may be nothing new under the sun, enthusiastic writers continue to explore new ways to express age-old ideas --- both the problems and the solutions.

"Whether you are one who relies on faith, friends or other flotation devices, this book will enrich your experiences and help you be a blessing to others. It would make an excellent resource for a small group or simply as a daily devotional."

In FAITH, FRIENDS, AND OTHER FLOTATION DEVICES, Michele Howe presents her perspective on how women in today's world can have a more abundant life. That is, a life filled with the blessings of God rather than the troubles of the world. A life that relies on faith, friends and other flotation devices to weather the tough times. Howe has written 14 books and numerous articles concerning similar topics. Yet here is a slightly different spin designed to meet the unique needs of women who are still struggling with some of the difficulties that life hands out.

The issues are not limited to women of faith but are common to believers and non-believers alike. “Forgiveness,” “Regret,” “Contentment,” “Respect,” “Fearlessness” and Peace are some of the chapter headings. Howe's skill lies in her ability to make the reader feel like she is having a conversation with a wise friend, perhaps a mentor. A friend who has experienced much of what she, herself, is now facing. A friend who has learned how to rise above the circumstances.

When stress happens or heartaches cause unbearable pain, how we respond is the key to how we will be affected. Howe's approach to life's challenges is more proactive than reactive. In other words, don't just accept the situation and allow it to produce negativity; rather, engage one of the helps that the title suggests so that you can take charge rather than be victimized. She explains, “Choices matter. So instead of giving in to the blues, we should counter them with constructive, decisive thinking and action. It's surprising how these bleak emotions can slowly be replaced by a positive outlook. Do it for you, do it for others.”

FAITH, FRIENDS, AND OTHER FLOATATION DEVICES applies sound Biblical principles to familiar problems, provides real-life illustrations and suggests practical applications. Whether you are one who relies on faith, friends or other flotation devices, this book will enrich your experiences and help you be a blessing to others. It would make an excellent resource for a small group or simply as a daily devotional.