The Devil in Pew Number Seven by Rebecca Nichols Alonzo
I had the opportunity to read this book once before. I declined. Why? Because I like ‘fun stories with happy endings’ and the book summary didn’t sound so enjoyable.
Then, the chance to read the book resurfaced. I took another look at it. This time I agreed to read it. I truly believe God wanted me to read this book. I enjoyed ‘meeting’ the family and witnessing how much each of them loved God and one another. They were a model family … one that I’d like to be a part of.
Then, I cried as I seen the pain and terror that was brought upon this family. It was completely outrageous, but even more bewildering was the response of the family!
This author and her family are truly a testimony to Christ’s love and forgiveness. I don’t want to give away any part of the book, but I want to express my whole-hearted desire that you read this book! Yes, I know I recommend a lot of books to my readers, but this one is something I believe we could all benefit from. I know it impacted me personally.
Through this book and other recent means, the Holy Spirit has convicted me of my own jealousies, self-pities and lack of forgiveness. I will be allowing God to make necessary changes in my life!
Book Summary:
Rebecca never felt safe as a child. In 1969, her father, Robert Nichols, moved to Sellerstown, North Carolina, to serve as a pastor. There he found a small community eager to welcome him—with one exception. Glaring at him from pew number seven was a man obsessed with controlling the church. Determined to get rid of anyone who stood in his way, he unleashed a plan of terror that was more devastating and violent than the Nichols family could have ever imagined. Refusing to be driven away by acts of intimidation, Rebecca’s father stood his ground until one night when an armed man walked into the family’s kitchen . . . and Rebecca’s life was shattered. If anyone had a reason to harbor hatred and seek personal revenge, it would be Rebecca. Yet The Devil in Pew Number Seven tells a different story. It is the amazing true saga of relentless persecution, one family’s faith and courage in the face of it, and a daughter whose parents taught her the power of forgiveness.
Find out more about Rebecca and her book at BeckyAlonzo.com.
In exchange for my honest review, I received a copy of the book from Tyndale House Publishers. Read the first chapter here, and then order the book from Amazon.com, ChristianBook.com or your local bookstore.
I love true stories, any kind, but especially the kind where people overcome great trials with God’s help.
God always have a reason for us. And you found the reason as to why you are to read the book. Just the title alone when I saw it I thought about how we sit in church and the enemy can be sitting next to us. He talks to us when we are worshiping, he denies truth when we are praying he tells us Jesus does not hear our prayers he tells us the sermon is not truth the enemy sits right next to us and try to talk us out of our blessings. But glory to God for His power and for the rest of the body who is rebuking the enemy while we are in service. Very powerful title of the book that is what came flashing across my mind as I saw the title.
This sounds like a great book! I love true stories too and seeing the power that God has to help believer’s overcome what would destroy nonbeliever’s. You have to be able to have God or you won’t be able to get through anything!!
Checking this one out! Thanks for the review!
@Nicole, Sometimes I wonder how non-christians make it through the rough stuff. I am very thankful for my Savior!
I know!! I am totally lost when I don’t have some little bit of time to spend with Him! Not sure how they get through their day let along their whole lives without knowing Him and His amazing Son!
@Nicole, I’ve been lost lately. I really need to take back that quiet morning time I used to frequently have with Him.
Thanks for visiting my blog and being a reminder to me!
That is something I have to make myself do too. It’s hard when I have a 3 year old yelling for me too but I know that shouldn’t be an excuse. I really miss sitting out back and doing my bible study while watching the sunrise. That is amazing and you feel so close to Him!
Praying you can get that morning time back with Him. Big hugs to you and I am so glad I stumbled across your blog! Like you said it is always nice to meet fellow Christian bloggers!
@Nicole, Ditto!!
Hi Tami,
I just wanted to thank you for your kind review of my book and your compassionate comments about our family. I am grateful to hear that our story touched your heart in some way and that you are sharing it with others. Blessings to you and much thanks,
Rebecca
@Rebecca Nichols Alonzo, I had intentions of sending you an email to thank you. Your book opened my eyes up to some things in my own life. I have a pity party over some silly things! I truly did not know what suffering was, until I read your book.
Your parents did an amazing job in parenting! I pray that my unforgiving attitude can be changed and time can be redeemed in becoming a changed example in my own children’s lives.