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Cover of The Emmanuel Promise

The Emmanuel Promise

  • Christian Living
  • Church Leadership & Ministry
  • World Religions
  • Publisher: Baker Books (Baker Publishing Group)
  • Published: 2024

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Publisher's Description

God's face is always shining toward usOur God is not asleep, nor indifferent. But we don't always experience His nearness or the depth of how beloved we truly are--especially if we have experienced neglect, abandonment, or emotional distance in our formative human relationships. Drawing from the deep well of Scripture, attachment theory, and her own personal story, Summer Joy Gross invites you to experience Emmanuel, God-with-us, as the One whose love toward you is secure and unchanging. She teaches you how to● use simple, repeatable practices to awaken to God's nearness and remain awake to his presence● learn from those who have walked before us, studying biblical teachings and ancient church traditions ● orient your life to the promise of Emmanuel, the living Christ, walking beside you● build a secure attachment with the God who holds you in a sure handWhen you are rooted in God's nearness in the ordinary moments, you can rest in God in the midst of life's storms.


Endorsements (7)

“We’ve been told God is a loving parent, but do we feel deep down that this is true? If you’re nodding, but your heart isn’t entirely sure, this powerful book is for you. Only a few chapters in, I could hear with much more clarity the tender voice of Emmanuel saying, “Welcome home.” A book like The Emmanuel Promise does not come along very often. Here a talented writer with a depth of wisdom and experience helps us both diagnose our wounds and pursue healing practices. Do not miss this excellent book.”

Christie Purifoy

“As followers of Jesus, we know that He promises to be with us always. Yet, either out of personal hurts, distractions, or ignorance, we do not realize the power, balm, and consistency of God’s presence with us. Summer Gross opens one’s eyes with insight and practical help to know Emmanuel—God-with-us—in all aspects of one’s life.”

Foley Beach

“Love and presence. Two important words so easily underestimated. But, oh, the depth and necessity of this pair. In her book, The Emmanuel Promise, Summer Joy Gross acts as a nurturing guide, as she helps us make our way to the transformative dynamics of presence, attachment, and God’s love. Be seen by Summer’s own ‘safe pair of eyes’ as she draws you to the table of the Beloved. Grow in your awareness of the nearness of God’s love and make your way to the connection you long for. Summer is a caring and trustworthy guide in matters of the soul.”

Gem Fadling

“Many of us can sing the words, but we struggle to believe them: ‘Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.’ We long to live in assurance of that good news, but it feels too good to be true. ln sharing her own story as well as wisdom she’s gained from years as a spiritual director, Summer Joy Gross offers both a compelling diagnosis for our spiritual disorder and a gentle but firm path toward healing. This is a book I wish I’d had years ago.”

Richella J. Parham

“sacred space of divine security and soul rest, integrating cutting-edge insights on attachment theory with the ancient art of spiritual direction. Summer provides the reader with a much-needed, Spirit-filled guide that draws them into intimacy with God. The Emmanuel Promise is a treasure trove of insight, inspiration, and practical application, desperately needed at this precise moment.”

Terry Wardle

“Here is a tender and helpful book with a pastoral voice. Summer teaches her readers the essential elements of attachment theory and then helps them partner with God for their healing. This book will bless all who read it.”

Lore Ferguson Wilbert

“The Emmanuel Promise blends centuries of spiritual practices with the science of attachment. Everyone can improve their attachment and interactions with God, but can we maintain awareness when life is busy or bumpy? The Emmanuel Promise provides us with stories and simple practices for building secure relational spirituality. Your brain, heart, and friends will be glad you did.”

Jim Wilder

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