Loved Beyond Compare

Loved Beyond Compare: A Journey of Miracles and Resilience During a Wicked War
by Dr. Jane Amana Ekong
Published by Living Water Press
Review by Sally Meadows
$24.99 ISBN 9781990863455

It was with great anticipation that I received Dr. Jane Amana Ekong’s memoir Loved Beyond Compare for review. I love reading about other peoples’ faith journeys, and Dr. Ekong’s story promised to be inspirational.

I was not disappointed. From the opening chapter, Dr. Ekong’s compelling writing drew me in through her vivid imagery and frank stream of consciousness. From the miracle of her birth to the “chaos, uncertainty, and fear” of living through the Nigerian Civil War, to the challenges she faced while getting her education, to navigating hurdles as she raced towards her wedding and marriage, this book is bursting with stories of how God kept His promise, as referenced in the opening chapter, to keep her and her family safe—and thrive—under seemingly impossible conditions.

Sprinkled liberally throughout her book are stories of miraculous healings, prophetic warnings, visions, divine encounters, and the kindness of others who crossed her path. There are Scripture references, judicious use of bible stories, and wise spiritual tenets that punctuate the life lessons she learned. Dr. Ekong doesn’t shy away from sharing some grim situations including being captured by soldiers, persecution by her peers, and all-out spiritual warfare. She is also upfront that there were times she wrestled with her own faith.

Dr. Ekong provides a fascinating glimpse into the culture of her people as well as her family’s influential spiritual legacy. Time after time, she marvels at how God can turn even the worst situation into something good. This thoughtful book radiates the gospel and will encourage other Christians to persevere through times of trial. 

Dr. Ekong’s story ends abruptly in the second to last chapter. I confess I felt disappointed but only because I was really looking forward to finding out what happened next! It is arguably a brilliant marketing move that will have readers waiting with bated breath to read the continuation of her story in her next book.

Dr. Ekong uses the final chapter in the book to summarize her story and reiterate what she learned; to encourage readers to reflect on their own lives; and to provide practical advice as to how readers can grow closer to God. This book is a must read for people at all stages of their faith journey, with spiritual truths that will resonate long after the final chapter.

THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE OR FROM WWW.SKBOOKS.COM.