BOOK REVIEW
in
Self-Help
May 29, 2025
God's Fingerprints: A Life's Journey of Faith, Fame, and Finding the Divine in the Everyday
by James R Needham
Reviewed by Alberto Beckham
Book Browse Reflection
In ...God's Still Calling...: ...Finding GOD's FINGERPRINTS, author James Needham, embarks on a remarkable journey of remembrance and reflection, sparked by the innocent curiosity of his grandchildren. Their simple question, "What did you do before you met Grandma?", unlocks a treasure trove of experiences, transforming a Thanksgiving dessert conversation into a compelling memoir that traces a life lived with both professional prowess and profound spiritual exploration.
James' professional life is a testament to his diverse talents and significant contributions. He takes readers behind the scenes of television production, including his involvement with the beloved The Joy of Painting with Bob Ross. His stories extend to working for President Nixon on a special project and collaborating with the esteemed editor of the original Jaws movie. These anecdotes offer fascinating glimpses into a career that intersected with influential figures and cultural touchstones.
However, the true heart of this book lies not in the glittering achievements of a professional career, but in Grandpa Jim's candid and deeply personal "off-again, on-again journey with God." He doesn't shy away from sharing the mischievous escapades of his youth, from testing his parents' patience to a comical yet dangerous encounter with a skunk, and a terrifying childhood cave-in. These seemingly disparate events are woven together to reveal how, even in moments of youthful rebellion and peril, he sensed a guiding hand – what he refers to as "God's fingerprints."
As the narrative progresses, readers witness James' mature recommitment to Christ, which profoundly shapes his adult life. He details his dedicated service as a Young Life Leader, an Adult Sunday School teacher, a Mission Committee Chair, and a Mission Team Leader. His career as a television producer, talk-show host, mentor, and even his recognition as Teacher of the Year for a major university's TCOM (now MEDIA) Department, are all presented within the framework of a life increasingly attuned to divine presence. For over 47 years, he has diligently sought to "see God's fingerprints wherever he goes," a practice he hopes to impart to his readers.
...God's Still Calling... is more than just a life story; it's an invitation to introspection. James Needham masterfully blends thrilling anecdotes with insightful reflections on faith, resilience, and the enduring presence of God in both the monumental and the mundane. His narrative is engaging, honest, and ultimately inspiring, leaving readers with a renewed sense of wonder and a deeper appreciation for the subtle ways in which spiritual guidance manifests throughout a lifetime. This book is an adventure worth joining, promising a memorable journey into a life richly lived and deeply blessed.