A New Way To Think (& giveaway!)

I knew they were there, but I tried to deny them.

They controlled how I felt when I woke up in the morning, and when I went to sleep. They dictated how I reacted to a situation, and often steered conversations into a ditch. They often caused me to feel easily offended, hurt or angry whether it was truly justified or not. They would constantly remind me of not only my past sin, but my current shortcomings, and keep me feeling inferior to those around me.

Thoughts.

They have power.  They can control our our actions, and even our happiness, but we don’t have to let them have negative power over our lives.

I eventually had to have a “come to Jesus” meeting with myself. And my thoughts. Over a period of several months, I had allowed frustrations, hurt, anger and resentments build up in my heart and they had slowly squashed my ability to think positively. Not that I was necessarily being negative outwardly, but I was thinking negatively inwardly – about myself, about situations, and about people who had hurt me or my family in some way.

And my thoughts constantly convinced me that I had every right to feel that way.

Then I began reading my sweet friend Suzie Eller’s new book The Mended Heart: God’s Healing For Your Broken Places, and it was as if her words broke through the hardness in my thought life, and helped all that negativity lose its power over my heart.

In Chapter 8, titled ‘As The Heart Thinks’, Suzie talks about a playground. Not where your body plays, but where your mind plays. A playground where she spent countless hours, entertaining her thoughts and letting her thoughts entertain her. And she admitted that the best part was that she always the playground hero, with nobody to prove any differently.

But then she explains how she sensed God calling her to leave that playground, to a place of grace and well being. A place where life isn’t always fun or fair, but where we can allow God to have power over our hearts and our thoughts.

2 Corinthians 10:5 says, “We break down every thought and proud thing that puts itself up against the wisdom of God. We take hold of every thought and make it obey Christ.” I love what Suzie wrote in reference to this verse:  “My playground was in direct contradiction to God’s plan for my thought life. It controlled me, when I should have been in control of it. It wasn’t alcohol or pills, but it was just as unhealthy emotionally and spiritually.”

What a great reminder that our thoughts have power – but only if we allow them to. We can choose to invite God into our thought life, pray for our thoughts to be held captive by Him, and ask for His strength to break free from the stronghold of negative thinking. This stronghold – which can rob us of peace, fuel negativity, hurt, and keep us focused on the wrong things – are not somewhere we want to play.  I am so thankful for the words God gave Suzie to share and how they helped remind me that with God’s help, I can embrace a new way to think every day – even if my circumstances remain the same.

Maybe it’s not your thoughts that are causing your heart to feel broken or making you feel distant from God, but rather a mistake from your past, or abuse from another. Maybe it’s the way someone has treated or heartache from betrayal. Maybe it’s a feeling of hopelessness when life seems too hard.

No matter what ails your heart, if it needs mending, Suzie’s book can help you start the healing process with her real and transparent stories, and her real life biblical teaching, and help you embark on a journey to becoming whole again.

mended heartIf you could use God’s healing for your  broken places, and a heaping plate full of hope and inspiration, maybe a free copy of Suzie’s book would help!

To enter to win, leave a comment briefly stating how The Mended Heart might speak into an area of your heart that feels broken or in need of God’s love. 

Winner to be announced Monday May 5th!

(Subscribers: All entries must be left on the blog post in the comments section. No email entries or replies will be included.)

89 Comments

  1. Karen on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 8:16 am

    I need to read this book!! I feel like my thoughts are toxic & I really need to get back to a good place so I can be a better wife, mom, & friend!



  2. Amanda on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 8:27 am

    There are some areas where I had expectations I didn’t realize I had, and I’m slowly having to come to reality and accept that God’s plan is better than my unrealistic expectations.



  3. Kelly Willie on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:15 am

    My thoughts never sleep! After 30+ years at the same place of employment, I have a new boss that is abusive to me mentally in his words and actions. I am miserable. I tell myself everyday that God has a plan, but my negative thoughts seem to sneak in everyday and I’m an emotional wreck. I’d love to read Suzie’s book to get my thoughts back on track!



    • Suzanne (Suzie) Eller on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 3:40 pm

      Oh Kelly, I’m so sorry. I pray that God offers wisdom to know what to do and how to respond to this abuse. I also pray that his actions and words do not follow from the work place out the doors to your family or life outside of work. You are loved. You are of worth.



  4. Janine French on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:16 am

    Recently the rug was pulled out from under me. I go to the playground of “what if” to often instead of remembering a God is in control.



    • Suzanne (Suzie) Eller on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 3:44 pm

      Janine, the playground of “what if” keeps us from discovering what is. How brave and honest of you to shine a light on an area you don’t want to stay stuck in. For me, getting out of that place meant closing the door to those thoughts so I could live in real life, face real life, work through real life . . . all with God’s help and assurance that Jesus has experienced every pain and temptation and walks with us through it. There were times I closed the door so many times a day, and then one day I realized the value it did not hold for me and what it was doing to keep me stuck, and I closed the door joyfully. I pray the same for you. : ) It’s a process, but every day that you purposefully walk away from those thoughts so you can live fully in today, you gain strength and clarity.



  5. LaDonna L. on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:19 am

    I would like to read this book so I can be an encouragement to my friends and family. I went through a divorce last year and I’m working through my issues and trying to become a better mother and friend. I want to be of help to other women who have gone through or are going through tough times, especially a divorce. I know God would want me to use my experiences to help others. Thank you.



  6. Donna Elliott on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:25 am

    This is so what I needed today. I have been struggling with where my thoughts go. I realize i have a huge problem with my thought life and need to give it to God completely. This book sounds like a wonderful step towards helping me with that.



  7. Courtney J on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:25 am

    I need this book! My thoughts and feelings are out of control! I can easily create a situation in my mind and instantly get in a bad mood. I get offended, angry, fearful, etc. I spend so much of my life doing this. And not to mention how many relationships I have damaged. I really need to get control of my thoughts and feelings before they ruin my life.



  8. Elsie on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:29 am

    I needed to read this today. Have been struggling w this exact sentiment for the past week and half. I feel that I pray and try my best but still this negative feeling doesn’t go away. This reading helped me realized that I still need to change my thought process during the day and trust and believe in The greatness and mercy of our Lord!

    Blessings!



  9. Laura on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:30 am

    I struggle with negative thoughts especially when I am PMSing. I know it is the enemy taking full advantage of my weak and emotional moments. I recently asked a group of Sisters in Christ to pray for me about this and 2 Corinthians 10:5 came to mind. I continue to pray for God to reveal my broken areas to me. I would love to read The Mended Heart. Thanks for sharing this post Tracie!



  10. Jenny on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:30 am

    This book sounds wonderful. My playground is too active from family addiction and rejection/pride/ego issues. I need to turn these constant and irrational/inaccurate thoughts over the the Great Healer…Jesus.



  11. CarrieC on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:31 am

    Oh my goodness. I was literally sitting here thinking about this very thing right now. I’m tired of living under the abuse of my thoughts. They are crushing me and holding me back from God’s best for my life. Thank you so much for your generosity in hosting this giveaway!



  12. Laurie on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:31 am

    The mind is a powerful thing. Constantly reminding myself that God knows all my thoughts is a hard concept but I know it to be true. I beat myself up often. Thank you God for your kind attention.



  13. Barbara Rivera on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:32 am

    As women, God has made us to always be thinking of the “what if.” Sometimes it’s just so hard to shut off the mommy brain at night to enjoy sweet sleep. Christians need to take every thought captive so that we don’t let our emotions rule our lives. It’s important to be in the Word and know God’s word so we can mediate on truth and not the flaming darts Satan sends our way. It’s important to claim the promises of God and let them rule in our hearts instead of our doubts and fears.



  14. Melody Ann on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:36 am

    My parenting heart needs God’s stitching up & healing. Just this morning my journal pen wrote of the splintering in my heart over my teens physical & emotional issues; the pulverizing I feel in my heart over my youngest adolescent’s difficulties with peers. Knowing only Love will mend & heal this Momma’s heart in time – but I’d like it NOW. This book could be an encouragent along the way.



  15. Elizabeth Saucedo on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:38 am

    I wouldn’t mind the book for myself but I have a sister who would really enjoy it. She holds a lot of anger and resentment towards the people that love her, especially family. She is the type of person that trys to love but being in previous relationships and going thru a divorce does not make it easy. She has been physically abused and I think that’s were it all stands. I can go on and on about her life but I feel she needs to learn how to change her state of mind!! With the help of god all things are possible.



  16. June Chapko on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:40 am

    I believe we have all been hurt at some time in our lives, through careless words spoken by a loved one, mean spirited accusations from insecure people, or intentional acts of pain from enemies. We know we are to forgive because we have been forgiven! The fallout that we encounter is our thoughts. As they play out past scenes over and over, we seem to vindicated because as you say in Suzie’s book, we are in control of things and become the playground hero.

    I would love to have this book, first for myself, but also to share.



  17. Tara on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:41 am

    I would really like to read this book because I went through some rough times last year in 2013. I was sick all year before a nd half of last year. I wasn’t very nice to my husband,sons,and friends.I said some things that hurt them and that hurt God that I didn’t mean and I asked God to forgive me and. He did. God spoke to me right then and told me I need to get your books and read it very slowly from front to back. I said I was sorry to everyone and told them I didn’t mean what I said and they forgave me. My sons told me that I need to learn to be a better mom and a better person. They said mom we love you very much and glad that you are are mom. That really hurt me what they said to me. I had surgery last year for lung cancer. I had three different kind of cancer in my left lung and they had to remove the top part of my left lung. The good news is that they got it all. I am still home recovering from my major surgery I had.



  18. Nicci Ramirez on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:48 am

    Wow…help me leave this playground and never return!!! POWERFUL analogy….



  19. Bridgett Jones on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:54 am

    I would love to read this book. As soon as I read the inspiration, I knew that God was speaking to me. I have been through a lot in my past and I am only 22 years old. About 2 years ago, I was in an abusive relationship with a guy I was dating. I am not going to go into detail but it took me a while to get over that. I feel like I have forgave the person that abused me, but I often find myself blaming people in my life for what he did to me. Its hard for me to open up and allow another man to get that close to me. Every time a man raises his voice at me or left a finger, I immediately begin to become terrified. I feel as if I need to read this book to allow God to speak to me and through me to mend my broken heart. My heart is not as broken as it was two years ago, but I know in my heart that I have not fully let go of the pain that he has caused me and my family. I am just blessed to still be alive and breathing after all of that. I would absolutely LOVE to win this book. Thank you !



  20. Kristin Perez on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:56 am

    I have struggled for many years with a toxic thought life. Nourishing resentments & anger for my husbands sex addiction,chronic pain, depression & victim status stemming from his own horrific childhood abuse. & all the pain it has caused.I live in fear of the future & struggle with feeling of being less then, terrible self esteem the unhealed wounds of physical & verbal abuse in my childhood even repeating those patterns into my marriage today. I am seeking after the Lord knowing that only he can heal these broken places in me. I would love to receive Suzie’s book the Mended heart I love to read & research. just from reading her blog I get a sense of the compassion she has for wounded women. I would love to read & apply those principals in my thought life These wounds have kept me captive too long! Thank you for the opportunity to win.



  21. Toni on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:01 am

    my husbands betrayal turned my world upside down….finding our that my life with him was just a lie…15 years.
    I feel as if I’ve started to heal….just not there. Waves of anger have caused me to have to apologize to my children who don’t know about their father’s actions. Deceit and lies can cause me to lose my temper, no matter how small or insignificant. Definitely still need some mending.



  22. Jessica F on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:06 am

    I struggle with my past sins every day. Even though I know I am forgiven I still can’t forgive myself and I keep replaying the thoughts and actions in my mind. I think this book will help me try to get out of the place where i am at. Blessings



  23. Ann : ) on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:09 am

    Thoughts can keep me awake at night.



  24. Tammy Placr on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:10 am

    I am in a very difficult trial right now. It is easy for me to focus on the circumstances and lose sight of hope. Thank you for this giveaway



  25. Suzie Hardy on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:11 am

    What a beautiful picture of the playground. I can relate so well.
    Have worked through many things but still need to mend.
    Suzie Hardy



  26. JIll Anderson on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:16 am

    It’s so easy to let the decisions of others direct your thoughts into a place where there’s hurt and despair. We all have broken places in our hearts that need God to fill them and heal the hurts.



  27. Sherri Morris on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:18 am

    The Mended Heart would so help me with the wounds of feeling rejected and unloved by my mother and at times my husband. Sounds like such a great book. 🙂



  28. deb b on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:19 am

    My thoughts are running negatively big time right now. I have retreated from my friends, groups I usually go to, and have been a ‘bear’ to live with recently. Thank you for this devotion this morning. I believe I was suppose to read it and maybe get my life going again. Thank you.



  29. Debbie on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:41 am

    My thoughts are often difficult to govern and subdue, especially when they are negative and damaging (both to myself and others). I would love the chance to read The Mended Heart, not only for myself, but also to share with many of my friends. Thank you for sharing!!



  30. Estew S on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:42 am

    I feel as if your post was talking straight to me. In a bad place right now. Feeling rejected and lots of negativity. I know who God is and what he can do, but at times in our lives our thoughts can make us think that even God has walked away. Looking for answers. Will really have to read this book.



  31. Amber M. on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:07 am

    I have felt myself being pulled into negativity over the past few years through some rough circumstances. it was a place I wasn’t use to being. I would sometimes see how far it had pulled me down without my realization then would even feel down about how much of a “negative Nancy” I had become and felt like a burden to my loved ones. God is slowly helping me and showing me how to pull out of this downward spiral. I know he will be Faithful and I am dedicated to finding his will and path for my life. Thank you for your Blog post today 😀



  32. Leigh F on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:14 am

    I am really struggling with my thoughts right now. I wonder why God hasn’t answered some prayers for almost 11 years, why does my family struggle financially as other seem to proper (non-christans at that). I sometimes feel God just doesn’t care about me and it has affect my prayer life and my time with Him in his word. I am trying to get back on track but my thoughts make it a struggle.



  33. Joyce on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:18 am

    I have been struggling with stuffings that I did not know what to do with, from way in the past. I think the book would be of real benefit to me. Thanks for all you do.



  34. Susan on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:23 am

    I’m struggling with recovery from my husbands infidelity and addiction to pornography. We are still together, but I’m not sure he’s all in. I’m looking for healing and the ability to forgive, balanced with wisdom for holding him accountable. I’m sure the book would be helpful:) thanks.



  35. Kathy on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:25 am

    I am 49 years old and have struggled all my life with how my parents treat me. We also have a family members on my husband’s side of the family that have caused alot of strife in our family. I have come to deal with both of these situations and know 100 percent that I’ve done everything to make it right. But I too also struggle with financial difficulties and it does hurt to see how people like this who cause strife can prosper. I have been married to a wonderful many of 30 years and have 3 precious daughters and a PERFECT grandson and I know these are my rewards. I’d love to read this book to still help me understand and process everything then pass along to all my 3 daughters to read as well. One of my daughter is in her graduate studies in seminary to be a marriage and family counselor and this would really be good for her too.



  36. Maria on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:31 am

    I definitely often allow my thoughts to run rampat and then get emotionally worked up over it. Instead I need to learn how to “Let Go” and “Let God”. I think this book would definitely be a great resource for me.



  37. Cynthia Quiroga on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:35 am

    I have a friend who does not have internet service, but would love to win a copy of this book.

    I love how the verse is stated in this post. Well, the pay altogether is good, I just especially love the verse 🙂



  38. Linda on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:39 am

    It has been 3 years since betrayal brook my heart and left me with bittherness, anger, and negative thoughts. I have read so many books trying to recover. I understand the logic well. I know my thoughts are negative. I am able to catch myself deeply intrenched in those negative thoughts. I try to talk myself out of it. But it just does not work. I feel like I am fooling myself trying to thinking positive thoughts; that the facts are negative. It is hard work. I continue to try with every new day. I try to re-find the girl with the happy and hopefull disposition. It used to come so naturally to me. Now it is hard work and does not feel natural at all. I am gathering from the comments here that so many of us are stuck in this state. God help us all to find hope and happiness once again to glorify HIM and set an example for any one else suffering to know that this too shall pass.



  39. Karen Hadley on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:46 am

    I would so like to read this book.



  40. Carol Ann on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:48 am

    Like the woman in Mark 5 thought, if I just touch his clothes, I will be healed. How I would love to think like that! Don’t you know the Christian community would be a different place if we ALL thought as that woman!? Thanks, Tracie for your ongoing encouragement!



  41. Karen Ketterman on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:51 am

    Need to read this book. I have and continue to struggle with staying on the playground. Just when I think I have left it I go right back.



  42. Ginger on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:55 am

    This would be the perfect book for me. It is so easy to allow my thoughts to rule the day and my feelings to tell me that I’m justified in doing so. I need to allow God to handle the different situations in my life…not work them around and around in my head!



  43. JENNY RUTAN on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 11:59 am

    It would help on my road to healing a wounded heart and spirit after many years of battling self-worth, self-esteem from years of molestation/abuse as a child. I am 52 and it would be wonderful to feel the freedom of the years of bondage of myself. Thank you Tracie. God bless you.



  44. Diana Rockwell on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 12:05 pm

    I have the book and it is wonderful. If I would win the book, I have a friend who could use the book. When my thoughts run away with me, I learned in taking my thoughts captive I have to renounce the lie I am believing and announce the truth. When I identify the lie, it usually has to do with my past, a fear, or irrational fears and thoughts. The truth is I am fearfully and wonderfully made, I am his daughter, I have been bought with a price. I can go on and on but when those thoughts happen, it sometimes derails me. But for today, I am on the right track. Blessings. Diana



  45. Marielly on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 12:06 pm

    I have been surrounded with negativity all my life and still do. It is hard to cope with things like this since family members are the ones with this spirit of negativism. With the Mended Heart book, I know God can speak to me in ways that I can understand and follow through with this situation.



  46. Melanie on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 12:48 pm

    I could’ve written that first paragraph!!! I need to have a “come to Jesus” meeting with my thoughts. Oh how often I find that I camp out on the wrong playground floor! Mostly hurting myself for coming up short, or taking it personal when my teenage/ young 20’s kiddos respond (or don’t respond, lol) to my advice, discipline, etc… Thank you for sharing yourself with this audience. Your transparency speaks volumes and I am blessed by your blog!



  47. Aleksandra on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 1:16 pm

    With a new baby, a husband that has a demanding job and attends school, mean-spirited relatives, and unexpected expenses that seem to be popping up a lot lately, in addition to my need to please everyone, I sometimes feel that I am in over my head. I constantly struggle with my thoughts turning negative–how I am not a good enough mother/wife/relative-which after a while become feelings of hurt, bitterness, and anger. The Mended Heart would help me refocus my thoughts and help get back on track towards our Lord.



  48. Amber on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 1:25 pm

    I agree with one who commented that she could have wrote that first paragraph! I struggle with my thoughts continually. It is very frustrating to get to a good place than have them year you back down again. Suzie’s book sounds well worth the read! Thanks!



  49. Tammy on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 1:27 pm

    I continue to have negative thoughts about my daughter’s boyfriend; she says he is doing better and not into the stuff he was but I just cannot grasp that. He hasn’t proven anything to me yet. Thank you for your devotion!



  50. Lavonna Halsey on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 1:43 pm

    I have parts in my heart that are broken but reading about Jesus and his love for us encourages me but I feel reading someone’s personal experience would help encourage me to.



  51. Kim on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 1:48 pm

    My son was born over a year-and-a-half ago, and I have a major struggle with negative thoughts about my parenting and homemaking skills. Every time I start to think I’m doing better, something will blow up in my mind and have me feeling worthless. I can tell myself truths from God’s Word, but I haven’t been able to internalize them deeply enough to help when I need them. I could definitely use some encouragement and truth presented in a new way!



  52. Headless Mom on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 2:22 pm

    Oh I so need this. There are a few hurts that I keep so buried, so deep inside that sometimes I don’t even realize how much they are effecting the way that I live. I know Jesus can heal them-I just need the push!



  53. Joyce on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 2:24 pm

    Raised in religious legalism, shame, fear, molestation, verbal abuse led me to take the fastest way out–wrong marriage and trusting controlling “Christians”, I simply didn’t get it until it all came crashing down almost 25 yrs ago and I ended up in a mental hospital–not knowing who I was, but yet believing somewhere there was a Jesus who was nothing like what had been presented to me for 30+ years! Jesus knew the cry of my heart–to be loved and know Him! Reading books on healing and knowing God as a Father has provided much of my growth toward wholeness–all Biblically sound teaching! A couple of weeks ago, a friend gave me this book to read (her copy)! Honestly, I need my own copy as Jesus and me are coming together at a new place again! My insides hurt–holding back the tears, but life has to go on… This book provides direction!



  54. Brittany on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 2:34 pm

    It’s so easy to let negative thoughts build up a hard heart. I’ve been experiencing that for much too long now. I’ve entertained thoughts I should not have, and they have made me angry and bitter toward both my husband and those closest to me. It’s a prison I’d like to break free from!!!!



  55. Shanon on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 2:36 pm

    I have been struggling with my work schedule and my life schedule. It is not matching up, and causing a lot of hardship for me. I try to be a positive person, and to stay away from negative comments. But lately, at work, the moral is so low, everyone is complaining like crazy. I know the right thing to do, but I end up just agreeing and joining in on the complain fest. I go home feeling sown and like I failed. I pray before my shift, but it gets so overwhelming, I let my co-workers and schedule get the best of me, and I start complaining. I really need the grace of God every time I start complaining and not trust that God is in control of my schedule and life.



  56. Adonna Gattis on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 3:04 pm

    I suffered incest, physical and verbal abuse while growing up until I moved out of my parent’s home in my early twenties. I have deep, deep emotional scars and open wounds that I deal with daily. Recently, at the age of 53, the Lord revealed to me that alll my crippling insecurites (and I have a heapin’ helpin’ of ’em) are in direct relation to being mentally, physically & sexually abused by a family member. I have an extremely low self-worth, deal with medical issues brought on by obesity and I cannot sleep most nights because of the ugly, unstoppable thoughts I have. I don’t too trust many people, male or female.
    I thought I had “gotten through it” by being tough and shutting it all behind the door of my mind and “moving on”, but now know that by my not dealing with the issues, it has all gotten worse., much worse. I love the Lord Jesus and have been asking him to please stop the toxic thoughts I have. I ask him daily to help me be his hands, feet and heart to love and serve others. But, the thoughts…the negative thoughts about others…the thoughts of inferiority…the feelings of hurt and the ugliness of wanting retaliation. I have gotten to the point that I started thinking that I was mentally ill. But, I know I’m not. I am emotionally and physically ill and I must trust the Lord as I journey the path of getting well. I have begun seeing a Christian Physcholgist who is helping me to walk the path by giving me direction. Please pray for me as I do this thing that is soooo hard. I know that I am not alone and that I will grow closer to Jesus and one day…will be able to serve the Lord in peace. Thank you for your blog and for allowing me to share my heart.



  57. Amy KW on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 3:14 pm

    My thoughts about myself is where I need the most work, the most forgiveness. I’m much more kind, generous, patient with others than I am myself. This looks like a great read!



  58. Suzanne (Suzie) Eller on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 3:20 pm

    Tracie, thank you for sharing my book. I plan to go through and read these comments and pray for many. You are a beautiful friend. Thank you. <3 Suzie



  59. Julie B on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 4:00 pm

    This books like a wonderful aid to the healing that God has just started in my heart (and mind) in regards to past hurts and mistakes. Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy.



  60. Rochelle Horner on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 4:12 pm

    After going through childhood with an alcoholic father, then marrying someone emotionally abusive only to get away from my dad, I have suffered a lot. I was teased in childhood and although I am almost 40 I still have been teased by the same people who can’t move on from high school. It was worse after my divorce in 2011, especially when I remarried. The church outcast me, and my friends took my ex’s side (he was always nice in public to fool others). I am now with my soulmate, an awesome Christian man who loves me and who is an excellent father to my kids. Despite this, I still struggle with feeling much less than how God sees me. I have often told my husband after a bad day, “I’m sorry I’m so broken!” because I can’t seem to get away from the past and present hurt. The title and message of this book really speak to me on such a deep level. I’m looking forward to MOVING forward, and focusing instead on what God says about me!



  61. Nikki on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 5:10 pm

    I think this book would help me to let God heal my hurts from my past that I have been holding onto.



  62. Ana on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 5:45 pm

    Hi Than You for the opportunity to win this book. I personally think i could really benefit fro this book, just can’t seem to let go of the one person i most trusted and he really hurt me.



  63. Debbie Dean on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 6:13 pm

    I am entering this free give- away to get a chance to win this book for a friend that is having to make some tough choices relating to some health issues and this sounds like it would help her keep her thoughts off the wrong playground. I have’nt read the book myself, but it sounds like one that I will go out and buy because I enjoy encouraging other through books, cards, scriptures or a poem that God inspires me to write to encourage someone through their trials. Just this week, God inspired me to write a poem that I titled “The Storms of Life” and I sent it to someone that attends my church. I feel like that is my ministry–to encourage others.



  64. LRF on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 7:35 pm

    This blog post just described me -I’ve been hurt by my husband and my thoughts are driving me crazy. I know he has to repent but that’s God’s area not mine.I no I need to work on being right with God and that’s most important -I even have had trouble sleeping like you talked about. I think I need to read the book, pray way more and memorize some Scripture-although I admit tho that all is good and probably the right things-I don’t know how to stop hurting….that’s something I don’t know the answer too…



  65. Kathy on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:02 pm

    It seems that I always enter a “playground” that shows me as the inferior one who can’t achieve what I am searching for. It might be my desire to write in a clear, concise way that seems to elude me. When I feel that way, I doubt my ability to communicate clearly and despair that writing is not my calling. I can also batter myself emotionally by feeling I don’t measure up as a wife or mother. I also sense failure likes to mess with me and try to convince me I’m not becoming the woman of God that I aspire to be. Basically, my thoughts and feelings about myself are a playground for Satan who keeps me trapped and unable to enjoy God’s peace and presence in a consistent way. This book sounds like it was made for me to read. I need some direction to overthrow these reasonings in my mind and achieve the mind of Christ to control my thoughts.



  66. Tanisha G on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:33 pm

    God knows I need this and this book will truly help me and Bless me. I truly need this book. Thank you.



  67. Laurie Z on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 9:43 pm

    You couldn’t have described me better!! My thoughts are always going these days and it is not healthy!!! Marriage issues, personal issues that tie into the marriage–the mind is Satan’s playground and he is wreaking havoc on mine. Would love to read this book.



  68. Pam S on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:28 pm

    I feel very hurt and disappointed by my closest Christian friends. We have worked on the same ministry for the past 10 years and for the last 3 years during the planning – feelings & resentments build up in them and I don’t know it’s happening! Until the day of the event comes and negativity appears instead of delight of what Our Lord has accomplished through us and the event – it is SO disappointing and so hard to cope with watching your friends allow jealousy, resentment and anger permeate the planning and preparation of a God-led event. I am the leader and have offered to step down, but they insist I should be the leader – but when things go awry – they disagree with some decisions I make or have problems with other committee members and let them build up until it turns to anger.We just finished our 2014 event and the negative stuff started coming out 2 days before the event and then my “thoughts” start doubting my purpose in the ministry and what I do to promote all the negativity – right now I am holding on to Psalm 16: 5 – “Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup;
    you make my lot secure” and the words of the hymn from “His Eye is on the Sparrow” –
    Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
    Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heav’n and home,
    When Jesus is my portion? My constant Friend is He: I would love to win your friend’s book – but in any event I will seek it out and read it!
    Thank you so much for your ministry and all the wonderful ideas and “thoughts” you share with all of us!!!!



  69. Mary T on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 10:56 pm

    “The Mended Heart”…the title alone makes me want to read this book! I downloaded the sample and it left me wanting more…I signed up for the OBS but never got the book. Although I know my life is filled with blessings from God, sometimes I, too, in my weariness, feel sad and begin to think negative thoughts. My family circumstances are sometimes challenging and some days having a thankful heart is hard…I would love to read Suzie’s book!



  70. Michelle B on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 7:49 am

    Oh gosh, I come across this email in my inbox after waking up at 430 am and not going back to sleep because my brain won’t shut off. Reading it I realize I’m definitely not in control of them and making my thoughts obey Christ–oh man. If only one part in the email completely applied to me, I can’t imagine how the entire book would!! Thanks for the opportunity!



  71. Dora on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 10:35 am

    I am a thinker. I have spent countless hours on that play ground.



  72. Sherri Wicker on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 1:19 pm

    whew…so much emotion here…our hearts need mending…and i think this book is a wonderful start. thank you so much for putting our thoughts in words and helping us through this journey right now at this time in our lives….



  73. diki b on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 4:26 pm

    I am single and often feel like an outcast which then starts all kinds of self-torturing thoughts rumbling around in my head and its not pretty. I am thankful for the chance to win Susie’s book. Maybe it would help with my crummy self image. TY.



  74. Sissie on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 5:24 am

    I feel that this book will help me walk with Jesus better



  75. Karey on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 7:42 am

    My thoughts hold me captive in a lot of ways. I would love to read this book and learn how to release them. I look forward to reading.



  76. Margie Sumard on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 8:24 am

    I struggle from fears and phobias from past
    Pains that constantly are choking me from
    Moving on to a more productive life.



  77. Anna Marie on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 9:48 am

    It’s as if you are reading my mind and can see into my heart! I would love to read this book so that I, too, can leave the playground. I have been there too long.



  78. Mary Geisen on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 6:06 pm

    My heart shattered in January when I lost my mom. As I try to heal from this loss, the grief can really work on your mind, heart and body to the point that your life can be affected. This book would be perfect to speak into my heart to remind me of God’s love and ultimate healing. Thank you Traci for this giveaway!



  79. Elaine Segstro on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 7:01 pm

    I often let my thoughts control me, especially negative ones, which lead to low self-esteem. That was confirmed this morning for me. I met up with a teacher from a school where I substitute taught. She gave me such a friendly greeting and was hoping that I would be visiting their school again; they missed me. I was CONVINCED that she did not have positive feelings about me!

    My thoughts take such control over me, and when they are controlled by feelings rather than by who I am in Christ, I am on a yoyo of emotions, which can be crippling.



  80. Judy C on Sunday, May 4, 2014 at 12:58 am

    I grew up being constantly teased by most of the people around me, even family members, because I was different. I have been really struggling with feeling valued. I heard so many people speak negative things to me that I have a hard time not thinking about them still.



  81. Barbara on Sunday, May 4, 2014 at 8:35 am

    My thoughts are a constant battle with me. Thoughts I don’t want to have,but they just will not go away. No matter what I do they are there. I have prayed about my Thoughts over and over. They are still there and I would love to
    break the chain of my thoughts and BE FREE from my Thoughts. Thank you for the chance to win this awesome book.
    Tracie you are a blessing! I love your blog!!



  82. Marisha on Sunday, May 4, 2014 at 9:22 am

    I could always use God’s healing of my heart, soul and thoughts in so many areas, and I desire His permanent healing of these- although at times even temporarily relief is such a blessing! I always look for opportunities of learning from Godly women and how they conquered the issues I am dealing with, therefore I want to thank you for sharing your struggles and what helped you, and I think this book will be a little treasure to me and my healing journey, and for my friends who I could share it with as well!



  83. Sherri on Sunday, May 4, 2014 at 7:44 pm

    I’ve had one of those days that started with a disagreement with one of my kids – something that wasn’t really a big deal- but I’ve let my own negative thoughts color my entire day, carrying over into all aspects of my life and relationships. I’ve had some pain in my relationships over the last two years, but I think that I have been my own worst enemy. Others seem to be healing and moving on and I stay stuck in the same old patterns of thought and behavior. This book sounds perfect for me!



  84. E on Thursday, June 5, 2014 at 3:22 am

    I am a Christian woman of 66, and have never had a stress free day in my life. I need the help….plain and simple.
    Thank you for the opportunity.



  85. Jane on Thursday, June 5, 2014 at 2:28 pm

    I am recovering from brain surgery, I have a rare condition that has changed my entire life. I feel so lonely and afraid and am facing some very Big changes in my life. I worry and stress all of the time. I would love to read this book and find a better place of happiness and calm in my heart again. I need a little piece of heaven to shine on me…thank you.



  86. Jill on Monday, June 30, 2014 at 9:30 am

    I loved reading this blog and would love to win Suzie’s book.



  87. Elisbeth Dominick on Sunday, July 6, 2014 at 10:42 pm

    I just wanted to express my gratitude and appreciation to prophet salifu for bringing my husband back to me,I was married to my husband for 4 years and all of a sudden he started seeing another lady (his mistress).he started hailing at me and he was abusive.. and he hated me , but I still loved him with all my heart . the situation made me unsettle and not to focus at work .so a friend told me about trying (prophet salifu )spiritual means to get my husband back and introduced me to him ? i did not listen to her and hoped that my husband will come back home . after 9 month of seperation and depression , it got out of hand and my husband came back home to break the news to me that he want a divorce that he is getting married to his mistress .Hmmm it was so shocking to me ,i felt sad and more depressed ,so i contacted my friend again and decieded to try to use spiritual means reluctantly..although I didn’t believe in all those things? I never thought in a million years that i will get my husband back to me a again. but I was proved wrong.after 24 hours, my husband came back and was pleading..he had realized his mistakes..i just couldn’t believe it that we are back together. I am deeply satisfied and thankful with prophet salifu work .if you also want to fix you marriage or relationship email him at or , his work is for a better life .



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Tracie Miles is a bestselling author and the Director of COMPEL Training with Proverbs 31 Ministries.  She helps women grow stronger in their faith, pursue the life of purpose God designed them for and live a life of peace, joy and happiness despite their circumstances.

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