Review of Now and Not Yet: Pressing in When You’re Waiting by Wanti
It’s rare to come across a book that feels as if it’s been written just for you, but that’s exactly how I felt while reading Wanti’s Now and Not Yet: Pressing in When You’re Waiting. From the moment I opened its pages, I was met with a profound understanding of the struggles of transition and the yearning for something “more” in life. As someone who has frequently found myself staring into the abyss of “what if” or “what’s next,” this book spoke directly to my heart.
At its core, Now and Not Yet is about embracing the present moment rather than languishing in the shadows of unfulfilled dreams. Wanti’s primary premise—that many of us never fully engage with our current lives because we are fixated on a distant future—resonated deeply. The opening line, “Some of us never get started making the most of where we are because we can’t get past where we think we should be,” hit me like a powerful wake-up call. How often do we underestimate the value of our current situations, seeing them only as waiting rooms rather than the vibrant lives we are meant to lead?
Wanti artfully combines scriptural references with personal anecdotes, creating a narrative that feels more like a rich conversation or an inspirational TED Talk than a textbook on theology. Each chapter offers encouragement and thoughtful exhortations that build upon a central theme—embracing life right where we are. While the pacing can sometimes feel slow, the variety within chapter structures allows for skimming or diving deep, depending on your needs. It felt as though I had a toolbox at my disposal to navigate my own thoughts and reflections.
What struck me most were numerous highlights that peppered my reading experience. One profound takeaway was, “The secret is Christ in me, not a different set of circumstances.” This reminder reoriented my focus; rather than longing for a more glamorous “next chapter,” I was urged to see my current life as a divine gift.
Another highlight that lingered in my mind was, “When God supplied manna, he chose to provide it daily.” This assertion challenged my instinct to hoard or strive for more and instead encouraged a daily reliance that cultivates trust and gratitude. I found myself captivated by Wanti’s perspective on God’s provision—not as an elusive future goal but as a daily grace.
For anyone navigating a life transition, yearning for a different job, city, or even mindset, this book is a must-read. Wanti’s insights will offer you both perspective and reassurance that your waiting season is, in fact, a season of growth and purpose. The book’s approachability and warmth make it an enriching companion, whether you choose to read it front to back or cherry-pick chapters that speak to your heart.
In conclusion, Now and Not Yet is not just a reminder to enjoy the present; it’s an invitation to actively participate in the unfolding of your life. If you find yourself caught between where you are and where you want to be, I can’t recommend this book enough. For me, it transformed my perspective and brought clarity to the beautiful mess that is life. Let Wanti guide you in embracing the now, for it is in the “now and not yet” that we truly find ourselves.
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