Hold That Thought

"In Hold That Thought, Gem Fadling's voice is both bright and grounding, able to meet readers where we are and also kind enough not to leave us there for long. Through her own stories and the stories of others, Gem submits a helpful and accessible guide to discerning between the competing internal voices we all contend with, always circling back to the wisdom of our true voice and the present nearness of God."

-Emily P. Freeman, author of The Next Right Thing

"Hold That Thought is a wonderfully practical guide to move from self-contempt into curiosity and compassion. Gem Fadling is both relatable and refreshing—a wise and kind voice who will help you better hear the Voice of Love in your life. Hold That Thought is theologically rich, accessible, and psychologically astute. I'm so grateful to have this book as a resource for my clients and community!"

-K.J. Ramsey, licensed professional counselor and author of The Lord Is My Courage

"Hold That Thought is a gem of a book that intertwines teachable moments through everyday personalities who seek God's directives on their spiritual journeys. Within these personal stories, Gem integrates a theological foundation and personal testimonies that encourage readers to live a transformative life steeped in embracing God's agape love. From such a foundation, individuals are empowered to take control of their voices and speak God's truth over their life; they are equipped to experience inner healing, godly success, and freedom in Christ. This is a must-read for those seeking to drink deeper!"

-Barbara L. Peacock, author of Soul Care in African American Practice and founder of Barbara L. Peacock Ministries

"I often hear people ask who the desert fathers and mothers, the abbas and ammas, are today. While they are few and far between, I am delighted to suggest Gem Fadling is one. As a spiritual mother, she guides readers skillfully and deeply into the inner landscape of the soul. Hold That Thought is the kind of resource I wish I'd had for myself twenty years ago. So, I adjure you: Be brave. Open these pages and confront your inner voices of shame, pain, and isolation. They will begin as enemies but end as friends on the holy journey toward wholeness."

-Tara M. Owens, spiritual director and executive director of Anam Cara Ministries, author of Embracing the Body

"Desires and longing are the lifeblood of a vital, joyous, and dynamic life, a life worth living. For too long desires and longing never hit my agenda, and burnout was the result. Gem writes in Hold That Thought, 'We must get in touch with our truest longings and our deepest desires. These are God-given and are the key to becoming more authentically us, inwardly and outwardly.' Spirit uses desires and longing as an invitation for living our most expansive and heart-centered lives. The unsettled heart cannot afford to be ignored; it offers us the keys to the kingdom life where the heart arouses us in wonder, curiosity, and ultimately, freedom."

-Juanita C. Rasmus, spiritual director and author of Learning to Be

"You've heard the voices that make you believe that if you want to get anywhere in life, you need to hustle more and push harder. This book helps you identify those debilitating voices and untangle them from your heart and mind. Gem Fadling is a wise and trustworthy guide for any of us who have listened too long to the inner voices that make us strive and try harder. Read this book and find your own true voice in the process."

-Jennifer Dukes Lee, author of Growing Slow and It's All Under Control

"Starting from her own prayer for needed change, Gem Fadling takes on the voices of achievement, control, and angst to show us where these voices come from and then how to participate in God's life. Gracious, generous, and practical, Hold That Thought walks us through discernment with God so we can live the abundant life Jesus promises. If you're feeling stuck, or transformation feels too opaque, Hold That Thought is a kind companion."

-Ashley Hales, author of A Spacious Life and Finding Holy in the Suburbs

"If you are ready to understand why you think the way you do and want godly, practical ways to shift unhelpful thoughts, this is the book for you. Gem Fadling normalizes the common human struggle through sharing from her personal story and the stories of others. She gives permission to address the deep thoughts in our minds that are not helpful. The questions throughout the pages will help reshape the thoughts that are no longer serving you well. As a pastor, I will be recommending this book to a lot of people. It is worth picking up and journeying through no matter where you find yourself in life's journey."

-Diana Shiflett, pastor and author of Spiritual Practices in Community