Very few would dare to compare any person, past or present, to the great 19th century preacher, C.H. Spurgeon. However, this author defies the masses and presents to the world, Rev. Walter Bowie, Jr., one of the few African American reformed preachers in America and perhaps the world. Rev. Bowie's letters, articles, and sermons have stirred the souls of many individuals, taking them from disgrace to grace that is only found at the foot of the Cross of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.As with many reformed thinkers, Rev. Bowie's theological and philosophical position on many subjects presented in this collection are controversial. They have been particularly challenging to the traditional African American religious beliefs and world view. As witnessed by the falling away of many from the church and its fundamental beliefs, very few would dare to walk in the theological shoes of C.H. Spurgeon: however this one man stands tall in those shoes and has found God's grace to be sufficient in these dark days.The author, Deborah E. Willis, a close personal friend of Rev. Walter Bowie Jr., realized the value of his writings when she was just a child. She began collecting his letters, articles, studies in theology, and sermons when she was 15 years old; and now as an adult, is providing the collection to the world.Ms. Willis works as a Marriage & Family Therapist for the United States Army in Europe. She has authored two books with Xulon Press: (1) A Life of Agony & Praise, and (2) A New Season: From Deliverance to Praise (under revision). She is the primary editor for two additional Xulon Press books: The Price of Pastoral Care and Dealing with the Vision of the Church; and The Cross Bearing of a Pastor's Wife.

Abuse, suicidal thoughts, alcoholism, drug abuse, and promiscuity were the themes of the author's life. Haunted by her past, she saw no future until God turned a life of agony into a life of praise.