Book Review

Relentless Joy 

Finding Freedom, Passion and Happiness

by Rachel Joy Baribeau

 

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WHAT IS YOUR NARRITVE?

When you think of your life story, what are the words you hear? Do you hear shame, guilt, condemnation? Do you hear a story on repeat in your mind that a difficult path means you are useless, not going anywhere or you are not worthy? I think any of these words—guilt, shame, or condemnation—may have gone through your head and mine at some point in our lives. I know it has for me. We might be asking ourselves, what is God up to? Rachel Baribeau’s newest release, Relentless Joy, is determined to help you change the narrative of your life so that it’s joy-filled and hope-filled!
Rachel realized that she was not the sum of her narrative in a negative sense, and she had to choose to change it, so she began a movement from the ground up called, I’m changing the narrative.

 https://www.imchangingthenarrative.org/mission

“Rachel Baribeau brings positivity and purpose to students, professionals and parents across the country through her movement I’m Changing the Narrative. Presented in an encouraging and supportive environment, Rachel speaks about the power to change the narrative and to find purpose in life.”

In her book, Rachael says while she’s out on a speaking engagement, “I can’t simply speak and leave. I crave human connection. I live to see the light go on in someone’s soul. I long for them to know that they are chosen, that they are wanted. It is how I’m built. It is who I am. I am all about the long-term lens” (p.169).  On page 173, she reminds her readers, ” The God of the universe has given you a purpose—your assignment—just like He gave me mine, but you have to say “Yes!” When you do, you can trust that “the one [God] who calls you is faithful, and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24). He will bring miracles from your life.” We have to admit if we say no, how will he use us!? How are we going to be his hands and feet?

Rachael is on a very intentional journey to help change the narrative in the lives of those around her. She’s determined to encourage people to know their worth and remind them they are made in the image of God on purpose and for a reason.  Rachel chooses to be vulnerable and relatable and invites you into the most profound and challenging parts of her life story so that you can begin your journey of changing the narrative and becoming a joy starter. It’s hard, and I guarantee that Rachael will tell you this is probably the most difficult project she’s ever undertaken. When you share the deep parts of your soul, it is a giant leap of faith. But she said yes, and because of that, thousands of people have chosen to allow God to be a part of their narrative and live a life knowing that they are worthy and that there is a purpose and a plan for them. I loved her book and appreciated her willingness to be honest. Her words are a gift to unwrap one page at a time.

The most wonderful thing about Rachel is that she knows she cannot create this joy alone.

She knows where her joy comes from.

She knows who the Lord of her life is.

She knows who she is- a daughter of the most High King.

Rachel’s joy is not containable; it is contagious, and I hope and pray that her ministry will continue to blossom and bless countless people as long as God allows. Thank you, Rachel, for sharing your story and inspiring us with joy and encouragement, which we also desperately need today. You are a light and shine brightly like a city on a hill for the glory of God.

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/joystarters-with-rachel-baribeau-nurturing-faith/id1640269878

Maybe you need the reminder today that you are created in the image of God! Listen to We Are Messengers sing one of their hit songs, Image Of God