Thejodyholland Thejodyholland

by Mark Phillips

Crosswords

A Weekly Devotional With Prayerful Reflections and Encouraging Thoughts

About the Book

Crosswords

The journey to God's purpose is rarely a straight line. Mine certainly wasn't.

I began in youth ministry and eventually became an associate pastor at a large church. I thought I knew where God was taking me. Then a tragic accident changed everything. In a season when I had to relearn what my own hands could do, I picked up wood — not as a calling, but as therapy. Sanding, carving, shaping. The slow work of regaining motor control became, without my realizing it, the slow work of God reshaping me. What I thought was rehabilitation was actually preparation.

Out of that broken season, a new ministry took form. Today I custom-make holding crosses and place them — along with words of encouragement — into the hands of people God puts in my path. I listen for His direction in finding those who need encouragement, love, and grace. And here is what the journey taught me: it is in action that we discover God's purpose for our lives. When we open our hearts to His calling, He takes what is broken and shapes it into something that blesses the world — and fills our own deep longing for meaning.

This book is a collection of weekly devotionals born from that ministry of crosses and words. That is how the title, CrossWords, came to be. My prayer is that each devotional — and each challenge — moves you one step closer to a life full of Love, Christ, and Purpose.

Thejodyholland

About the Author

Thejodyholland

Jod’s books challenge you to confront what’s holding you back, take ownership of your growth, and step boldly into the leader—and life—you were created to become.

Jody N. Holland is an author, leadership strategist, and executive coach who has spent more than two decades helping individuals and organizations break through limitations and lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose. His work focuses on the human side of success—how mindset, personal responsibility, and intentional leadership shape outcomes in business and in life.

Drawing from real-world leadership experience, behavioral science, and timeless principles of personal growth, Jody writes with a rare blend of practicality and inspiration. His books challenge readers to confront internal barriers, take ownership of their development, and step into the best version of themselves—both professionally and personally.

Jody is the founder of Jody Holland, Inc., where he works with leaders at every level—from first-time supervisors to senior executives—guiding them to build strong cultures, develop people, and drive sustainable results. His approach emphasizes growth through challenge, accountability, and purpose rather than comfort or complacency.

Through his writing, speaking, and coaching, Jody is committed to helping people move beyond fear, confusion, and self-doubt toward lives marked by intentional action and meaningful impact.

He lives in Texas with his family and continues to write, teach, and coach with one central message: Become The Leader You Would Follow.

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