Internationally renowned and New York Times best-selling author Mitch Albom’s latest book, “The Stranger in the Lifeboat,” ponders what we would do if, after crying out for divine help, God actually appeared before us?

It’s the story of nine people who struggle for survival at sea following a deadly ship explosion. Adrift in a lifeboat, short on water, food, and hope, the group spots someone floating in the waves.

“Thank the Lord we found you,” a passenger says after pulling the stranger aboard.

“I am the Lord,” the man whispers.

Is the stranger really who he claims to be?

“It’s not a religious book,” says Albom in an interview with Dr. Phil, airing Tuesday. “The stranger is sort of the universe, and do you believe that things happen for a reason? And if you do - then that stranger isn’t such a stranger to you anymore.”

“The Stranger in the Lifeboat” is available now wherever books are sold.

Dr. Phil airs Monday – Friday. Check your local listing to find out where to watch.