Dr. Elsa John
Author and Speaker
Over the past few years, I’ve been on a journey of emotional healing—one that has been both beautiful and, at times, incredibly difficult. There were moments when hope felt far away and healing seemed out of reach.
But in the middle of that struggle, Christ met me there. He restored a hope I thought I had lost.
As God has continued to heal and grow my heart, I’ve discovered the courage to share my story and creativity through writing. My hope is that by sharing honestly, others who are walking through their own healing—whether from past wounds or present struggles—will feel seen, understood, and encouraged.
If that’s where you are today, I want you to know something important: you are not alone.
There is hope, and that hope is found in Jesus.
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Meet Elsa
I was born in India and raised in New York. I currently reside in Edmond, OK. I have always written poetry and short stories as a teenager and young adult. Somewhere along the way, I had forgotten that gift. Recently when I was sharing the completion of the devotional and book with an old friend, she reminded me that I had loved writing and showed me a poem I had given her almost 30 years ago. It was saddening and heartfelt to see the struggle of a teenager through poetry. But it was a true testament to the journey I am on now as the Lord has shown Himself faithful through all these years. I now have an avenue to express myself creatively through words and share words of hope with my readers.
Our Special Stories
The Story Behind Devotions of Hope
The Devotions of Hope is my testimony—and it’s also yours. I’ve struggled with sharing my story, unsure how much to say or if it even mattered. But I’ve learned: it does. Your story matters too. Through writing, the Lord showed me how to weave my journey with His story. When our experiences are hidden in Him, they gain purpose, beauty, and hope. Even the hardest moments can shine with God’s grace. This devotional invites you to see Christ in every part of your story and discover that your struggles, healing, and triumphs are part of a greater story of hope. “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” — Philippians 1:6
The Story Behind the Frowning Ballerina
I wrote this story to capture a special moment in our family, and I’m so grateful I waited until the right time to bring it to life. Writing my devotional was emotionally heavy—each chapter came through tears and reflection. Whenever I needed a break, I would turn to this children’s story. Collaborating with the illustrator and seeing the story take shape gave my heart a soft, joyful pause. This sweet, lighthearted book was the perfect contrast to the weight of the devotional. I can clearly see the Lord’s kindness in giving me these two very different projects. What felt like a simple children’s story became a gentle cushion, a space of hope and joy that carried me through the heavier work
The Story Behind Ella Jo
and Her Broken Joy
I wrote Ella Jo and Her Broken Joy as a children’s version of my own testimony. Life isn’t always easy—disappointments, hurt, and loss are part of the journey. This story captures that journey of hope and healing, showing that everything we truly lack is found in Jesus. The book follows Ella Jo, a little girl whose most precious joy has been taken from her. Feeling empty, she sets out on an adventurous search, visiting different places and trying to fill the emptiness she feels. Along the way, she learns that true, lasting happiness isn’t found in things or places, but in God’s love. Heartwarming and faith-filled, this story invites children to explore hope, perseverance, and the joy that only Jesus can provide.
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Customer Testimonials
“This book is well-written and so touching! The author is brave and discusses serious topics that a lot of people (especially women) can relate to on some level while giving encouragement to push forward in this life. Her spiritual guidance is very helpful and approachable no matter the current state of your faith. I feel blessed to have this work to turn to during hard seasons of life in the future..”
-SJ
“My husband bought this devotional book for me. I started reading it aloud and was automatically hooked and inspired. Elsa is vulnerable, well versed and well written. It’s amazing to see how the Lord has used her obedience, humility, talents (worship, writing, etc) and ministries in the church and in the family to create something so beautiful. Can’t wait to share this devotional with other ladies in my life. 10/10 recommend!.”
-Jacob
“Raw and honest. A personal journey of recovery and healing..”