Next month, Christian "Fixer Upper" stars Chip and Joanna Gaines will release their first ever book, titled The Magnolia Story. The book, which hits shelves October 18th, details how their strong marriage, faith, and family carried them through the ups and downs of life.
A description of the forthcoming book, written with New York Times bestselling collaborator Mark Dagostino, on Joanna's personal blog reads, "The Magnolia Story is the first book from Chip and Joanna, offering their fans a detailed look at their life together. From the very first renovation project they ever tackled together, to the project that nearly cost them everything; from the childhood memories that shaped them, to the twists and turns that led them to the life they share on the farm today."
Since it first aired in 2014, "Fixer Upper" has emerged as one of HGTV's most popular shows, attracting millions of viewers every Tuesday night. The Gaines' ever-expanding empire includes a real estate company, construction company, design firm, nationally distributed furnishings line, and boutique.
However, the road to success wasn't easy. After meeting at Baylor University, the couple married and started a home renovation and design company. Following the birth of their second child, Chip and Joanna felt that God was calling them to close their home furnishings store, Magnolia Market.
Although devastated, Joanna recalled feeling a strong sense of peace about the decision: "God taught me to study the Word and believe it, even when it hadn't been fulfilled yet. I really had to cultivate a place of faith that I never had before. I had to trust Him as He would speak His promise to me," she explained.
"This trust brought peace, although my circumstance hadn't yet reflected his promise. His Word doesn't return void, and God was working in my heart to establish deeper levels of trust that I now look back on and am thankful for," she added.
However, God had greater plans for the couple: shortly after God called them to once again re-open their store, the Gaines were approached by HGTV, who had heard about the couples' home improvement skills, and the rest is history. Despite their immense success, the Gaines are quick to give all the glory to God.
"Our family has made a commitment to put Christ first, a lifestyle our parents modeled for us very well. They showed us how to keep our marriage and family centered around God," Chip said.
Joanna echoed the sentiment last April during a video for Baylor University in which she discussed her testimony and how she seeks to use her platform to share her faith.
"I can look back now on the pattern of my life and really believe God has a purpose for me, but He also has purpose for you," the mother-of-four said. "Whether you're staying home and raising beautiful babies or you're the CEO of a multi-million dollar company, let God speak into your life," Joanna continued.
"Let his father heart come and say, 'This is what I have for you.' I think that's the key - not believing the lies, fixing our eyes on Jesus, and walking in the truth."
Learn more about The Magnolia Story here.
