This Was Never the Plan

In This Was Never the Plan, Vaneetha Rendall Risner shows you how to walk with God through the heartache of divorce. Having experienced divorce herself, she writes not only as an honest guide but also as a comforting friend.

I was most challenged by her discussion of battling bitterness—how to move beyond it and embrace the freedom of forgiveness. It made me reflect on my own need to forgive and be forgiven, and the power that this holds. I was deeply humbled by Risner’s journal entries. She shares them throughout the book, giving an honest look at her raw emotions.

Compassion and Healing

As a parent, I felt the pressure of supporting children through divorce. Risner offers practical tips throughout her book, but her wisdom also shines through when she reminds us to play the long game and that God doesn’t judge our outcomes, only our faithfulness.

Loneliness and shame were especially poignant sections, as I considered the role I have to play as a member of my local church. To be a friend and provide a place of belonging are privileges. This is a compassionate book that encourages healing, reflection, and a closer walk with God through life’s hardest seasons.

I received a media copy of This Was Never the Plan (Amazon) and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.