New Release Highlights God’s Power to Restore What Fear Tried to Destroy

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – A Michigan mother shares the honesty, heartbreak, and healing behind her journey from “I was…” to “But God…”

GILBERT, AZ — Redemption Press announces the release of “I Was… But God…”, the powerful debut memoir from Northern Michigan author and mother of five, Sara Gapinski. Blending deeply personal storytelling with Scripture and the restorative role of music, Gapinski traces her path through abuse, fear, spiritual confusion, and loss—and the surprising ways God met her in places she never expected. Her story arrives at a moment when many are searching for solid hope in the midst of trauma, anxiety, and disconnection, offering a clear and faith-rooted reminder that healing is possible.

In a culture grappling with rising trauma and emotional exhaustion, “I Was… But God…” speaks directly into the quiet places readers often carry alone. Drawing from her lived experiences and the biblical truths that reshaped her identity, Gapinski shows how God’s love silences shame, stabilizes fear, and restores what feels irreparable. With candor and compassion, she invites readers to consider where they may still be living in an “I was…” story—and helps them recognize God’s presence in the transformation that follows. The memoir’s timely message resonates especially with those navigating abuse recovery, spiritual rebuilding, or seasons of deep uncertainty.

Early readers have noted the book’s blend of raw honesty and biblical clarity, praising how well it speaks to both individuals and groups in ministry settings. Gapinski’s journey highlights how music, Scripture, and intentional surrender can become lifelines for anyone seeking freedom from the wounds that have shaped their identity.

Sara Gapinski’s paperback will be available on December 9, 2025; with the e-book free to download on Amazon for 5 days through December 13, 2025. Readers continue to share how profoundly “I Was… But God…” has moved them. Here are just a couple of their reflections:

Andrea
5 Stars Amazing, heart warming, truly inspiring

“This book is so much more than I anticipated. Her comparisons with her life to biblical times is deeply rooted in truth and love. I also love that she added a music play list for others to enjoy as much as she does.”

Joy Hodgesrutkowski
5 Stars God is always our hope

“I was most impressed with the ….but God sections. Sara’s compassion shows through as she leads you to understand the love of God and how He will never leave us even in the midst of our pain and confusion.”

For interviews, contact: SaraMGapinski@gmail.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sara Gapinski, a Northern Michigan mother of five, balances her role as a mom with her role as office manager of the family businesses. Demonstrating a deep love for people, Sara actively takes part in various volunteer efforts and enjoys short-term missions. She and her husband fostered children for eleven years, gaining a daughter in the process. When not managing her family’s business, Sara loves star gazing and northern light chasing. An avid Bible reader, she savors quiet moments with a steaming cup of coffee—never iced!—and choosing to spend time with family, friends, and God.