Title: The Silence of God: Sock It To Me!
Author: Dr. Gene Russell
Publisher: BookVenture Publishing
ISBN: 1397-1-64166-723-4
Genre: Christian Non-Fiction
Reviewed by: Jason Brye

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The Silence of God – Sock It To Me!, written by Dr. Gene Russell is a compilation of thoughts, stories and faith. Dr. Gene Russell has pastored for several years, he is a father, a grandfather and has studied Biblical Studies and more at various graduate institutions. Russell’s account of God being silent is depicted in this emotional story of heartache, sadness, patience and longsuffering. But those troubles don’t last as there is hope given by the author at the story’s end.

Russell asks “where is God?” But why would he feel so low after preaching for years? In The Silence of God, Dr. Russell is yearning for God to touch him and the world as Christians do. Russell paints a picture of heartache and misery as he watched people die. He still cries out to God after prayer, unfulfilled expectations and unattainable goals become a burdensome matter in his life. The author decided to write this story which ironically relates to both Christians and Non-Christians as they wait for an answer in regards to life’s purpose, faith, healing and more.

The story is sad at times. It may produce a trail of tears which linger on in thought as death and sickness is discussed. Left wondering, people who trust God and feel let down do not make Dr. Russell, our protagonist, more comfortable as he constantly deals with the woes, foes and trials of the world, but his faith is intact. He battles to the end and he calls out to God without retirement.

Initially, it seemed as if Dr. Russell was taking a semi-atheist approach after detailing sorrow after his prayers were disregarded, dreams did not come true and after failed plans left him and countless others behooved in regards to God’s timing. Dr. Russell’s strength does prevail. The story’s emotional chapters are heartfelt and empathy surfaces. Though simple at times, the author gets right down to the bone as he continues to give God glory throughout the story; but he also wonders why God won’t answer accordingly. Many can relate.

This story of realistic feelings is a spectacular read. It is an emotional ride inside the thoughts of a pastor who almost threw in the towel. But at the end, he prevailed through fervent prayer and good works. Dr. Russell mentions going back to the basics when trying to grow closer to God. The triumphant sermon-style message at the end is glorious. It’s encouraging and introspection would probably be best for the Christian reader who trusts God. Non-Christians could give his advice a try and perhaps see if faith leads them to Jesus. This is an awesome story for anyone as it is a story of happy and content endings after a sad start.