Stories from the Sidelines

The pages of the Bible are full of ordinary people placed in extraordinary circumstances that we often overlook or forget. Stories From the Sidelines explores the lives of some of these lesser-known people in Scripture-like Huldah, Eliab, or the women of the early church-while providing alternate perspectives to familiar narratives. Detailed retellings bring their stories to life. Once we step into the shoes of someone who experienced God in an ordinary place, our eyes are opened to the Lord’s presence in their lives. We begin to understand how their experience applies to us as ordinary people today. Each account we encounter gives us a look at something that we might believe is unimportant but is actually a crucial part of God’s plan. As we discover God in their lives, we glimpse His presence in our own. We can glean wisdom as we follow their ancient footsteps with a God Who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Before we know it, we will understand that we are not insignificant or forgotten by Him at all. Just as He has been with His people always, He is with us every moment, filling our lives with His incredible purpose, even when we think we’re merely sitting on the sidelines.

 

If you’ve ever wondered about your place in God’s plan, or heard stories of heroic faith and felt like you could never measure up, this book is for you. Malinda Fugate will take you on an eye-opening tour of the “sidelines” in Scripture, highlighting stories of overlooked characters in a way that will shift your whole perspective. You’ll learn why sometimes, the sidelines are exactly where we belong—and why that’s something to celebrate.
Gina Dalfonzo, author of Dorothy and Jack: The Transforming Friendship of Dorothy L. Sayers and C. S. Lewis

Malinda Fugate’s excellent examination of those who are supporting players, not the super stars, is fascinating reading. Stories From the Sidelines reveals accounts of lesser-known people in the Bible as well as provides alternate perspectives to familiar narratives. Each chapter begins with a detailed retelling of Scripture, including available historical context and employing prayerful imagination to bring it to life. Highly recommended.
Eva Shaw, Ph.D., author of The Seer, The Finder, and The Pursuer

Through these imaginatively rendered stories, Malinda invites us to believe that even when we feel sidelined, God sees us and has a purpose for our lives. Step onto the dusty roads walked by these oft-forgotten Bible characters and be reminded that God also walks with you. There is much wisdom in these pages.
Sarah L. Sanderson, author of The Place We Make