Larry and I just returned from St. Charles, MO, where we attended the Golden Scroll and Christian Book Market Awards. My book, Big Hurt, Bigger God: Finding Freedom Through Biblical Forgiveness, was a finalist in the Christian Living genre for a Golden Scroll award. Last time my book won an award, I couldn’t attend. So, Larry and I decided to take a road trip and enjoy some time away, something we haven’t done in a while.
After enjoying wonderful worship led by Babbie Mason, the presentation of awards began. There were so many awards celebrating this wonderful group of authors and editors. After they’d announced the awards in my genre and I hadn’t been chosen, Larry asked if it was ok for him to visit the restroom. “Sure,” I said. After all, I figured I’d missed my opportunity to win anything.
While he was gone, they finished going through the remaining genre and category winners before announcing The Golden Scroll 2026 Book of the Year. I may have gasped when I heard them say, “Big Hurt, Bigger God: Finding Freedom Through Biblical Forgiveness!”
I placed the plaque in Larry’s seat. When he came back, he stared at it incredulously. His expression made the moment all the sweeter.
I marvel at our Lord’s kindness and timing. As some of you know, we have been going through a season of hurt. Sometimes, that’s when we discover just how big our God is.
Because of our personal circumstances, the release of Big Hurt, Bigger God has changed a few times. The official release is September 1, 2026. But it is available now through online bookstores and from our ministry.
One of the first readers contacted me telling me how much it has meant to her. She ordered ten copies for her friends. That makes an author smile!
If you’re walking through a deep hurt, or know someone who is, I hope Big Hurt, Bigger God will help you discover that even in our biggest hurts, we have a Bigger God.
Thank you for your prayers and support. Larry and I appreciate you.
I thought I’d missed my opportunity to win a Golden Scroll award. Then, while Larry was in the restroom, Big Hurt, Bigger God was named the 2026 Book of the Year! #BigGod Share on XCelebrating a Big God,
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#MondayLinkUp #InstaEncouragements, #Let’sHaveCoffee, #SweetTea&Friends
Congratulations, Debbie!! Well done! Well deserved!
Thank you, Paula!
Congratulations Debbie! Your message in this book is so needed; all praise to the One who is our Deliverer, Healer, and Friend!
Amen! Thank you, Ellen.
Congratulations, Debbie! What an awesome achievement!
Thank you, Mary. So grateful to God for this special perk.
Congratulations Debbie!!! Much deserved! I am so happy for you. Your books are so uplifting and so solid Biblically. Couldn’t be happier for you!
Thank you, Ann. That means a lot.
God not only has a sense of humor, he also knows when we need to hear from him most in a special way. He is definitely bigger than all our hurts. Congratulations. I’m so glad you went to the awards banquet and had a safe trip.
I agree. A nice chuckle to add to the memory. 🙂
A BIG congratulations, Debbie!!! I’m so glad you were able to be there for that amazing moment — God knew and made sure you would be there to be doubly blessed. My book, “Discovery – Lighting Up the Past,” a middle-school book, is a 3rd place winner, which is a nice recognition, but nothing like your major recognition. I’m so happy for you! How wonderful it is, the way that God uses our hurts and gives us “beauty for ashes,” again and again. May God continue to bless you and your precious outreach for Him.
Congratulations! That is an awesome win. I’m so happy for you.
Congratulations! ❤️ G
Thank you, Gina!
Your story about losing your mother’s belongings always resonated with me when I faced angry hurt. I’m sure it resonates with many people for the same reason. I am so happy for you with this reward!
Y
Yes, some hurts really punch you in the gut.
Well done, yet again, Ms. Debbie. So glad Mr. Larry was able to share in the joy of your award. Another great book ma’am.
Thank you! I’m so glad he was willing to take off and go with me.
Congratulations Debbie! That is very exciting indeed!
Blessings, Jennifer
Thank you, Jennifer.
I would have loved to see Larry’s face! Haha! Praise God for this sweet gift to you, and to us! Congratulations Debbie!
It was priceless and made it all the more fun! Thanks, Stephanie!
Congratulations, Debbie! I am so excited for you and for it’s release. And that was such a fun way to let Larry know the news!
It was fun! He felt bad at first, but I told him it made it more memorable!
Congratulations! How kind of God to send that encouragement, and how it all worked out was fun!
Thank you, Barbara. I felt God’s smile, and that is so sweet.
Congratulations, Debbie! That’s wonderful that you were there to receive this award, and it makes me smile to think of how you surprised your husband with the award. I trust the book will be an encouragement to many readers.
Thank you, Lois. Yes, that moment when he returned was priceless! That’s my prayer too.
That is so awesome Debbie. Congratulations for your well deserved award. I pray the book reaches many with your wonderful message.
Thank you, Yvonne. I’m grateful.
Congratulations Debbie! I’m so happy for you
Thanks so much for sharing this with Sweet Tea & Friends this month Sweet friend. I’m so happy you’re here.
Thank you, Paula!
Happy (almost) September Debbie! Just popping back over to let you know I’ll be featuring your post at our Sweet Tea & Friend’s September link up. ( It will be live later today)
{{Hugs}}
Thank you, Paula!! What an encouragement!