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Editorial Reviews
Emotional Healthy Spirituality is a groundbreaking work on the integration of emotional health and contemplative spirituality that current models of discipleship fail to address. Many sincere followers of Christ, followers who are really passionate for God, join a church, participate weekly in a small group, serve with their gifts, and who are considered "mature," remain stuck at a level of spiritual immaturity--especially when faced with interpersonal conflicts and crises. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality offers a strategy for discipleship that address this void, offering powerful pathways to transformation that will help readers mature into a faith filled with authenticity and a profound love for God.
Related Reviews
Another step toward Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
Even better than his last book. Life changing pages ahead!
Peter Scazzero's first book, "The Emotionally Healthy Church" has had a great impact on churches and church leaders all over North America and beyond, so much so that it is now available in 5 languages. Next year another language will come out and by sometime in 2008 it will be available in 7 languages according the publisher. It is interesting to note that book was written for a church leaders. This new book, "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: Unleash the Power of Authentic Life in Christ", goes beyond just leadership, to everyone who has a seeking heart.
I am member of Pastor Pete's church. His preaching and teaching has and continues to transform how we see ourselves in Christ, how we relate to each other, both in the world and in the Body of Christ, and in how to walk out a freedom in emotional and spiritual health that has restored our joy in the Lord! Our church funtions in a greater degree of love and understanding of who God made each of us to be as individuals and as a body. We are still journeying on that path, growing daily.
Yet, upon reading this book I told Pastor Pete that his writing is even better than his preaching on this book and that's saying something! Even after sitting under teaching for 3 years now on this new book "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: Unleash the Power of Authentic Life in Christ", I found myself drawing nearer and deeper into who Jesus is as I read, and how much the love of the Father is impacting my life like never before. The grace and the power of the Holy Spirit reaches through every word. Although written in easy reading form, there is much to chew on in this book, much to digest. Pick it up for your summer reading under a shade tree on your vacation. Read it slowly and contemplate the Lord's presence as you do so. You won't be sorry, you'll be changed.
I am member of Pastor Pete's church. His preaching and teaching has and continues to transform how we see ourselves in Christ, how we relate to each other, both in the world and in the Body of Christ, and in how to walk out a freedom in emotional and spiritual health that has restored our joy in the Lord! Our church funtions in a greater degree of love and understanding of who God made each of us to be as individuals and as a body. We are still journeying on that path, growing daily.
Yet, upon reading this book I told Pastor Pete that his writing is even better than his preaching on this book and that's saying something! Even after sitting under teaching for 3 years now on this new book "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: Unleash the Power of Authentic Life in Christ", I found myself drawing nearer and deeper into who Jesus is as I read, and how much the love of the Father is impacting my life like never before. The grace and the power of the Holy Spirit reaches through every word. Although written in easy reading form, there is much to chew on in this book, much to digest. Pick it up for your summer reading under a shade tree on your vacation. Read it slowly and contemplate the Lord's presence as you do so. You won't be sorry, you'll be changed.
Three years after Pastor Pete published his award-winning book "Emotionally Healthy Church"(Zondervan, 2003), we finally have a new book from him. Personally, I believe that this is a great book that will revolutionize the ways churches around the globe approach spirituality. In this book, Pastor Pete tries to provide an antidote to unhealthy emotions and/or unhealthy spirituality by two cures: emotional health and contemplative spirituality. (Chapter Three) These cures, I believe, are helpful even to non-Christians.
Pastor Pete begins the bulk of this book by enumerating the top ten symptoms of emotionally unhealthy spirituality. (Chapter Two) In the seven primary chapters constituting the pathway to emotionally healthy spirituality, he begins by "Know yourself that you may know God"(Chapter Four). This is indeed important because oftentimes we misunderstand God because we do not even understand ourselves well enough. "Going back in order to go forward" is the title for the next chapter, which is also a slogan of the New York City subway system from time to time when it tries to explain the reason and result of rerouting. This is equally true for spiritual maturity because to understand ourselves well, we frequently would have to go back to our (sometimes hurtful) past to find out the reason(s) of our current wound/immaturity in order to find an effective remedy. Chapter Six describes the journey through the wall. This is important because the journey to heaven is full of thorns and never without obstacles. Appreciating the necessity/inevitability of walls and the importance of patiently waiting upon the Lord during the period of walls is a key to mature spirituality. As human life is never consummated without grief and loss, the next chapter teaches us to accept this fact and to enlarge our soul through the grieving process. (See e.g. Ecclesiastes 3:4 and Job)
Chapter Eight is one of my favorite chapters in this book, which describes the rhythms of the Daily Offices and the Sabbath. Daily Office (opus) is the functional equivalent of the quiet time or devotional time with an emphasis in meaning on the "work of God". This is a favorite chapter because personally I have greatly benefited from the observance of the Daily Offices and the Sabbath. Moreover, I believe that observing the Sabbath is a great way to get some quality rest on a weekly basis while observing the daily offices is crucial to rest and center on God on a daily basis. "Love your neighbors as yourself" is one of the central tenets of Christianity (Matthew 22:39). Chapter Nine teaches us some useful techniques to love people well as a mature person, such as the right way to resolve conflicts, reflective listening, the Bill of Rights on mutual respect, checking out assumptions and expectations. In the last chapter, Pastor Pete challenges us to consider developing a personal rule of life by adopting two or three of the following elements at a time, such as scripture, silence and solitude, Daily Office (prayer), study, Sabbath, simplicity, play and recreation, service and mission, care for the physical body, emotional health, family, community (companions for the journey).
I highly recommend this book to any Christian and/or non-Christian who wants to develop mature character and spirituality.
Pastor Pete begins the bulk of this book by enumerating the top ten symptoms of emotionally unhealthy spirituality. (Chapter Two) In the seven primary chapters constituting the pathway to emotionally healthy spirituality, he begins by "Know yourself that you may know God"(Chapter Four). This is indeed important because oftentimes we misunderstand God because we do not even understand ourselves well enough. "Going back in order to go forward" is the title for the next chapter, which is also a slogan of the New York City subway system from time to time when it tries to explain the reason and result of rerouting. This is equally true for spiritual maturity because to understand ourselves well, we frequently would have to go back to our (sometimes hurtful) past to find out the reason(s) of our current wound/immaturity in order to find an effective remedy. Chapter Six describes the journey through the wall. This is important because the journey to heaven is full of thorns and never without obstacles. Appreciating the necessity/inevitability of walls and the importance of patiently waiting upon the Lord during the period of walls is a key to mature spirituality. As human life is never consummated without grief and loss, the next chapter teaches us to accept this fact and to enlarge our soul through the grieving process. (See e.g. Ecclesiastes 3:4 and Job)
Chapter Eight is one of my favorite chapters in this book, which describes the rhythms of the Daily Offices and the Sabbath. Daily Office (opus) is the functional equivalent of the quiet time or devotional time with an emphasis in meaning on the "work of God". This is a favorite chapter because personally I have greatly benefited from the observance of the Daily Offices and the Sabbath. Moreover, I believe that observing the Sabbath is a great way to get some quality rest on a weekly basis while observing the daily offices is crucial to rest and center on God on a daily basis. "Love your neighbors as yourself" is one of the central tenets of Christianity (Matthew 22:39). Chapter Nine teaches us some useful techniques to love people well as a mature person, such as the right way to resolve conflicts, reflective listening, the Bill of Rights on mutual respect, checking out assumptions and expectations. In the last chapter, Pastor Pete challenges us to consider developing a personal rule of life by adopting two or three of the following elements at a time, such as scripture, silence and solitude, Daily Office (prayer), study, Sabbath, simplicity, play and recreation, service and mission, care for the physical body, emotional health, family, community (companions for the journey).
I highly recommend this book to any Christian and/or non-Christian who wants to develop mature character and spirituality.
Scazzero offers a useful book in "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality," though I couldn't help but think that it could have been so much more. What he does best is cut through some of the Christianese insider language to identity some serious problems with the way that many of us think and talk about our faith, specifically in the context of emotions. He diagnosis a real problem with some of our most common, unspoken assumptions (that Christians are always supposed to be happy, that a meaningful relationship with Christ will produce emotion-free bliss, etc.). In fact, the first several chapters of the book, in which he lays out this diagnosis, are the strength.
My critique is two-fold. First, I felt that Scazzero made a serious logical misstep when he goes to great lengths in the first half of the book to illustrate that the faithful practice of spiritual disciplines will not insure or produce emotional maturity. However, towards the end of the book, his prescription for emotional well-being essentially boils down to the faithful practice of spiritual disciplines, though they are somewhat unorthodox in the contemporary evangelical community (what he calls a "Rule of Life"). This solution would have made sense, had he not taken great pain to suggest that spiritual disciplines are not the answer to emotional immaturity.
The other problem with the book is that it was rather dry. In contrast to an author like John Ortberg, who weaves story after story in the midst of his text, Scazzero didn't seem very inclined to use narrative as a way to engage the reader. As a result, I was sometimes bored, though his content was quite compelling.
Overall, this book is fine, and I'm glad that I read it. Chapter 8 (on the Daily Office and the Sabbath) was a high point that any Christian would be well-served to read. But the logical disconnect and the dry writing style prevent me from recommending it too highly.
My critique is two-fold. First, I felt that Scazzero made a serious logical misstep when he goes to great lengths in the first half of the book to illustrate that the faithful practice of spiritual disciplines will not insure or produce emotional maturity. However, towards the end of the book, his prescription for emotional well-being essentially boils down to the faithful practice of spiritual disciplines, though they are somewhat unorthodox in the contemporary evangelical community (what he calls a "Rule of Life"). This solution would have made sense, had he not taken great pain to suggest that spiritual disciplines are not the answer to emotional immaturity.
The other problem with the book is that it was rather dry. In contrast to an author like John Ortberg, who weaves story after story in the midst of his text, Scazzero didn't seem very inclined to use narrative as a way to engage the reader. As a result, I was sometimes bored, though his content was quite compelling.
Overall, this book is fine, and I'm glad that I read it. Chapter 8 (on the Daily Office and the Sabbath) was a high point that any Christian would be well-served to read. But the logical disconnect and the dry writing style prevent me from recommending it too highly.
Spirituality for the whole person
At last a book that offers a way to let Jesus heal the whole person, empower a Christian's entire life. With unflinching honesty and humility, Pastor Scazzero witnesses to a spirituality that gives attention to our past without allowing us to remain perpetual victims. He offers us disciplines for our future that can shape our lives and make room for the abundance that Jesus promised.
My favorite surprise in the book was the call to true "Sabbath." I'm not there yet, but I feel the tug of the Spirit, urging me to take this seriously. It is such a joy to realize that the world can carry on one day a week without me!
It's difficult to imagine the Christian whose walk would not benefit from reading this book.
My favorite surprise in the book was the call to true "Sabbath." I'm not there yet, but I feel the tug of the Spirit, urging me to take this seriously. It is such a joy to realize that the world can carry on one day a week without me!
It's difficult to imagine the Christian whose walk would not benefit from reading this book.
Emotional Health--A Long Time Coming For The Body of Christ
I'm reading Emotionally Healthy Spirituality for the second time. This book aligns with my spiritual belief, as well as my personal belief system, that emotional health should be--no, must be--integrated into the body of Christ so to promote true spiritual maturity. The book, as some people may believe, is not saying that we should live or be driven by our emotions, but to address them. Avoidance is a curse to emotional health. Given my past experience, I wholeheartedly believe that emotional health is one of the major keys to spiritual growth. However, Peter Scazzero is the first pastor that I know of who has articulated the issue--and well!
This will change your life if you let it!
I have read few books that caused me to stop - make time to re-read, weep, journal and pray about the impact they were having on my life. This book is THAT powerful. It is deeply personal, both from the author's point of view and to where it takes you, the reader. The stories shared vividly illustrate Scazzero's points and I have never seen the relationship between emotional maturity and spirituality so deftly woven together. Great find!
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
Just as Daniel Goleman has pioneered Emotional Intellegence in the secular world, Peter Scazzero is one of the lone voices pioneering emotional health in the spiritual world. This book is a must read for all church leaders!!
A year ago I was secretly battling Alcoholism and Addictions thinking this was the life I was meant to have. I had a newborn baby and a wife of 7 years and my addictions were tearing our marriage and my life apart. My life was out of control, but by Gods grace through an intervention I was sent to one of the most well respected and top recovery and addictions treatment facilities. I had become a Christian 11 years prior and God had radically changed my life doing amazing things in and through me. I had found an escape in alcohol at an early age as it allowed me to deal with life circumstances and challenges, and to allow me to quickly change the way I felt. Thinking I had control over the alcohol, it quickly had control over me. I have been clean and sober now 11 months and have been through and continue to go through intensive counselling and therapy. This book though is one that God has used to help save not only my life but my marriage. Though I had become a Christian at 19 years old and was "a new creation" I continued to carry with me the wounds and scars that life had delivered me and the only way I knew to deal with them was through alcohol and other addictions. This book allowed me to dig deeper into my past, to feel my past, and to understand the things that have made me who I am. In the past, Truth had always trumped my feelings, because my feelings I was told would easily lie to me. However for me, alcohol trumped the truth. This book has done a great job at allowing me to not only identify my feelings and to recognize that as a good thing, but to be open and honest with God about them. It has also allowed me and my wife to begin the healing process as we openly talk about how we feel now, whether angry, sad, fearful, happy, joyful, or peaceful. Recovery is about a lot of things for me but it has been about being able to recognize my feelings and emotions as a good thing and to deal with them in a Godly way by being open and honest about my story with God, my wife and a few close friends. It has set me on a path to being Emotionally Healthy! I won't fully be there until eternity but am grateful to God that He used this book in my life at 30 years old.
Correctly and Biblically understanding the impact of sin upon our emotions and the impact of our emotions upon our ability to think, reason, and respond to our ongoing experiences, is essential for transformation into Christlikeness. Dallas Willard's book, Rennovation of the Heart, and his examination of the emotional aspects of our "heart" is a good compliment to this book's much needed focus on feelings, emotional health, and spiritual disciplines. So many Christians believe that they correctly understand, discern, and process through situations and experiences - all the while being blind to how their perceptions are shaped by sin's effect on their God given emotions. Of particular interest is Scazzero's use of the "Wall" and adaptation of discipleship issues found in the book - The Critical Journey. I appreciate his call to honesty in Biblical examination of our inner heart - Jer. 17:9 and the call to experience God in the centuries old spiritual disciplines of the church. Great stuff!
The "Missing Link" in Christian Discipleship
Pete Scazzero (the pastor of a thriving church in New York) writes a very transparent and yet helpful account of how Christians have a tendency to neglect two areas of their lives: the emotions, and the realities of generational sin. He begins the book by demonstrating how devastating this can be in relationships, and how this affects the corporate health of the body of Christ. What this does ultimately is it creates a "false peace" that deals only with symptoms and not the causes of what makes for unhealthy relationships.
I think this book is must reading for all Christians, especially church leaders (pastors, teachers, small group leaders, etc.) because I think most interpersonal relationships, marriages, families, and thus churches live in this reality Scazzero calls "false peace." In the book he gives various examples from his life, and others lives - as well as many biblical examples of how to identify these real emotional and sinful tendencies, and how to correct them through the biblical disciplines.
For example - I have discipled numerous men over the years (as a pastor and professional life coach) who know the Bible well, but their relationships are a mess. Sometimes they have a ton of repressed anger inside, or are trying to "make up" for the approval they never received at home, or they have an incurable "lust" problem, etc. Ultimately, all these "realities" are typically below the surface in the discipleship process - and never dealt with. We give people more verses; more lists of dos and don'ts, and continue to live in this realm of false peace.
Scazzero builds a great case in the book for identifying personal and generational sin, and gives excellent tools for grappling with, and overcoming these areas of sin with the help of God's Word and the Holy Spirit. I can't recommend this book (and the workbook that goes with it) highly enough. I think if Christians and churches (he's also written a book called the Emotionally Healthy Church with a workbook that goes with it) want to really become healthy and rid the false peace and barriers that have been built up over time, you can't do any better than to read and work through this book.
My wife and I have read this book and gone through the workbook at least four times, and it has been absolutely life transforming. Along with R.C. Sproul's the "Holiness of God," and Peter Kreeft's ("Heaven: The Heart's Deepest Longing") and Randy Alcorn's books on Heaven - this book has radically changed my thinking and behavior - and has helped me repent of, and deal with sin in my life in a way that few books have helped me to do. I think every Christian should read this book more than once and go through the workbook with another person, or several people (small groups are ideal - especially if they are a close knit small group).
As a pastor and church leader for many years I also recommend that staff's, elders, and ministry teams go through this book for healthier teams that will radically benefit the body of Christ for good. If I could give this a higher rating than a five I would - this book is one of the greatest gifts of God's grace I've received - it has helped me in all of my relationships - with God, other believers, and those who have yet to believe - and taken me to a deeper level in all these relationships than I ever thought possible.
I think this book is must reading for all Christians, especially church leaders (pastors, teachers, small group leaders, etc.) because I think most interpersonal relationships, marriages, families, and thus churches live in this reality Scazzero calls "false peace." In the book he gives various examples from his life, and others lives - as well as many biblical examples of how to identify these real emotional and sinful tendencies, and how to correct them through the biblical disciplines.
For example - I have discipled numerous men over the years (as a pastor and professional life coach) who know the Bible well, but their relationships are a mess. Sometimes they have a ton of repressed anger inside, or are trying to "make up" for the approval they never received at home, or they have an incurable "lust" problem, etc. Ultimately, all these "realities" are typically below the surface in the discipleship process - and never dealt with. We give people more verses; more lists of dos and don'ts, and continue to live in this realm of false peace.
Scazzero builds a great case in the book for identifying personal and generational sin, and gives excellent tools for grappling with, and overcoming these areas of sin with the help of God's Word and the Holy Spirit. I can't recommend this book (and the workbook that goes with it) highly enough. I think if Christians and churches (he's also written a book called the Emotionally Healthy Church with a workbook that goes with it) want to really become healthy and rid the false peace and barriers that have been built up over time, you can't do any better than to read and work through this book.
My wife and I have read this book and gone through the workbook at least four times, and it has been absolutely life transforming. Along with R.C. Sproul's the "Holiness of God," and Peter Kreeft's ("Heaven: The Heart's Deepest Longing") and Randy Alcorn's books on Heaven - this book has radically changed my thinking and behavior - and has helped me repent of, and deal with sin in my life in a way that few books have helped me to do. I think every Christian should read this book more than once and go through the workbook with another person, or several people (small groups are ideal - especially if they are a close knit small group).
As a pastor and church leader for many years I also recommend that staff's, elders, and ministry teams go through this book for healthier teams that will radically benefit the body of Christ for good. If I could give this a higher rating than a five I would - this book is one of the greatest gifts of God's grace I've received - it has helped me in all of my relationships - with God, other believers, and those who have yet to believe - and taken me to a deeper level in all these relationships than I ever thought possible.
I think this book provides answers for the disconnect between people's beliefs and the way they live out their Christian lives. It helps to explain why Christians often aren't very good imitators of Christ and representatives of their Lord. People are undeniably emotional creatures, and we are all wounded or broken in one way or another. Learning to understand and use our emotions appropriately is essential to being a whole person. Spirituality can't make up for a dysfunctional emotional life, so unless there is healing on the emotional level, we have a Christian who is incapable of fully experiencing the love, joy and peace that Christ has to offer, and is also hampered in his or her capacity to have healthy, loving relationships with others. Reading and studying this book moves the reader toward recognizing the problem then taking the necessary steps to get beyond it.
Revolutionary View of Christianity That is Actually Rooted in Tradition
I see this book as having 2 sections. The first deals with our failings and why they exist while the second guides the reader into a proven effective way to overcome those flaws - how to meet with the Holy Spirit multiple times a day so that the reader becomes transformed to maturity. He also advocates the practice of Sabbath; that is to take a 24 hour period of rest once a week. I promise, his approach is not legalistic.
In a nut shell Scazzero challenges the reader to acknowledge and own their immaturity (emotionally speaking) along with its impacts their ability to love others, manage time, etc. Then he talks about how immaturity is often rooted in our families of origin or our own bad experiences. Understanding the big picture of why one is they way they are aids in recognizing a need for change while it takes away the paralysis of self condemnation.
The later half of the book speaks about how various biblical characters and church fathers achieved a relationship with God - which is the best way to overcome emotional immaturity so that we love others and God more effectively. What he describes is likely not another version of your grandmother's quiet time. This book is a must read if you find that you don't seem to be living out the Fruits of the Spirit.
In a nut shell Scazzero challenges the reader to acknowledge and own their immaturity (emotionally speaking) along with its impacts their ability to love others, manage time, etc. Then he talks about how immaturity is often rooted in our families of origin or our own bad experiences. Understanding the big picture of why one is they way they are aids in recognizing a need for change while it takes away the paralysis of self condemnation.
The later half of the book speaks about how various biblical characters and church fathers achieved a relationship with God - which is the best way to overcome emotional immaturity so that we love others and God more effectively. What he describes is likely not another version of your grandmother's quiet time. This book is a must read if you find that you don't seem to be living out the Fruits of the Spirit.
When Scazzero wrote in his first book the "it is impossibe to be Spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature," (p. 50) he set the stage for making Spiritual growth relevant
for all persons of Faith.
When Paul stated that we are to "grow in Grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ," (II Peter 3:18) he established the means for Spiritual growth. It is our own response as to how much we submit to the Grace of God to make growth possible.
Our enemy within is the lack of emotional development.
The truth is that "Grace covers our imperfections emotionally" and we are called to live our emotional imperfections by submitting to God's truth beyond what we can see.
After 40 years of pursuing the radical truth of Jesus and attempting to wed that truth into Psychological growth, I have found that as a Pastor Scazzero has defined the boundary between the areas of Spiritual and Psychological truth and blended them into a coherent and readable treatise that makes perfect sense to the Believer--and the sinner alike.
This book has been long overdue and should relieve a lot of people from their struggles of attempting to rely on theological mumbo-jumbo and get on with life without fear and guarded apprehensions.
Read this book and discover the "open secrets" of Faith development. It is a good read!
This truth is simple and can set you free to find a deeper trust and confidence in the power of Grace to redeem and equip one for "greater works" for the Kingdom of God.
for all persons of Faith.
When Paul stated that we are to "grow in Grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ," (II Peter 3:18) he established the means for Spiritual growth. It is our own response as to how much we submit to the Grace of God to make growth possible.
Our enemy within is the lack of emotional development.
The truth is that "Grace covers our imperfections emotionally" and we are called to live our emotional imperfections by submitting to God's truth beyond what we can see.
After 40 years of pursuing the radical truth of Jesus and attempting to wed that truth into Psychological growth, I have found that as a Pastor Scazzero has defined the boundary between the areas of Spiritual and Psychological truth and blended them into a coherent and readable treatise that makes perfect sense to the Believer--and the sinner alike.
This book has been long overdue and should relieve a lot of people from their struggles of attempting to rely on theological mumbo-jumbo and get on with life without fear and guarded apprehensions.
Read this book and discover the "open secrets" of Faith development. It is a good read!
This truth is simple and can set you free to find a deeper trust and confidence in the power of Grace to redeem and equip one for "greater works" for the Kingdom of God.
Spiritual and Emotional Health
This is a very helpful book. Peter Scazzero draws from many different sources and presents their content in easily digestible form. The issues he deals with are very important ones for any Christian who wants to grow spiritually into the Christlike person that God intended him or her to be. The basic premise of the book is that it's impossible to be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature (though it often does work the other way around). Those who want to grow spiritually must grow and maintain their emotional health. Lacking in this is at the root of the failure of many discipleship models being used in the church today.
After describing the problem and symptoms of emotionally unhealthy spirituality Scazzero gives us as an outline of a life that balances contemplative spirituality (consciously living one's life in God's presence) and our daily activity. Following that are several chapters on different aspects of reaching emotional and spiritual health: Accepting and understanding your emotions and understanding your "true self". Healing the wounds of past experiences that hinder emotional and spiritual health. Dealing with the experience of your life hitting a "wall" in upheavals beyond your own control to remedy and the feeling that life has passed you by. Grieving over past mistakes and losses in life rather than trying to "stuff" them and pretend they no longer matter. The proper place of sabbath rest, recreation and refocusing on God throughout each day. Learning to love well. Developing a "Rule of Life" to help you be more conscious of, and intentional about, your spiritual and emotional growth.
This is a very good book for individuals and groups to spend significant time studying and applying. I also recommend the companion book by the same author, Begin the Journey with the Daily Office (or the newer edition: Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Daily Office) for those who have had trouble developing a habit for fixed times of prayer throughout the day. This book is a very good start and follows the themes in Emotionally Healthy Spirituality. Very few people live well on one meal a day (even if it's a large one). More small meals a day keep your body supplied better. The same is true of time spent with God.
After describing the problem and symptoms of emotionally unhealthy spirituality Scazzero gives us as an outline of a life that balances contemplative spirituality (consciously living one's life in God's presence) and our daily activity. Following that are several chapters on different aspects of reaching emotional and spiritual health: Accepting and understanding your emotions and understanding your "true self". Healing the wounds of past experiences that hinder emotional and spiritual health. Dealing with the experience of your life hitting a "wall" in upheavals beyond your own control to remedy and the feeling that life has passed you by. Grieving over past mistakes and losses in life rather than trying to "stuff" them and pretend they no longer matter. The proper place of sabbath rest, recreation and refocusing on God throughout each day. Learning to love well. Developing a "Rule of Life" to help you be more conscious of, and intentional about, your spiritual and emotional growth.
This is a very good book for individuals and groups to spend significant time studying and applying. I also recommend the companion book by the same author, Begin the Journey with the Daily Office (or the newer edition: Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Daily Office) for those who have had trouble developing a habit for fixed times of prayer throughout the day. This book is a very good start and follows the themes in Emotionally Healthy Spirituality. Very few people live well on one meal a day (even if it's a large one). More small meals a day keep your body supplied better. The same is true of time spent with God.
Fresh, New Perspective on Christian Spirituality
This book offers a different take on Christian spirituality. Rather than just emphasizing prayer, Bible study, fellowship and witnessing, it goes deeper and explores the emotions that accompany spirituality. Scarrezo is right on target when he states that many Christians develop spiritually but fail to develop emotionally. The author does an excellent job of defining the problem of emotionally unhealthy spirituality and lists the top ten symptoms of it: 1) Using God to run from God, 2) Ignoring the emotions of anger, sadness and fear, 3) Dying to the wrong things, 4) Denying the past's impact on the present, 5) Dividing our lives into "secular" and "sacred" compartments, 6) Doing for God instead of being with God, 7) Spiritualizing away conflict, 8) Covering over brokenness, weakness, and failure, 9) Living without limits, 10) Judging other people's spiritual journey.
After defining unhealthy spirituality, in part two of his book he moves to describing the pathway to emotionally healthy spirituality. Knowing yourself, understanding your past, letting go of power and control, surrendering to your limits, and observing regular times of renewal and refreshment are all presented as ways to reach emotional well being. He speaks of the "daily office," a helpful practice unfamiliar to many evangelicals.
This title is growing on me. Upon first completing it, I wasn't too impressed with the content, especially the second part. As I pray and think upon what the author says however, I see how God can use these principles to move me towards more emotionally healthy spirituality. I recommend it.
After defining unhealthy spirituality, in part two of his book he moves to describing the pathway to emotionally healthy spirituality. Knowing yourself, understanding your past, letting go of power and control, surrendering to your limits, and observing regular times of renewal and refreshment are all presented as ways to reach emotional well being. He speaks of the "daily office," a helpful practice unfamiliar to many evangelicals.
This title is growing on me. Upon first completing it, I wasn't too impressed with the content, especially the second part. As I pray and think upon what the author says however, I see how God can use these principles to move me towards more emotionally healthy spirituality. I recommend it.
I read this book as a result of having read The Emotionally Healthy Church which was required reading for a class my husband is taking. I have not always been a christian and have spent the past seven or eight years trying to decided if something was missing because after relocating to a new area I just could not find my place in my present church. Reading this book motivated me to start a Bible Study but it was different in that the "Problem of Emotinally Unhealthy Spirituality","Pathway to Emotinally Healthty Spirituality", and The Daily Office were great chapters.
This book was great for me in renewing my walk with Christ. It also gave me permission to question certain areas but also directed me with answers to search and apply. This is a great book if someone who lacks all the training, theology that sometimes gets lost in Bible Study it's great for discussion. I purchased the workbook also.
It spoke to me in every chapter..the Bible says "Seek and ye shall find". I enjoyed reading it and was able to replace my own experiences in place of some illustrations that fit just find. It is a great "template" for discussion and would be a great source for someone who is not a Bible teacher but someone who wants to share their faith and have a healthy discussion doing so.
There are several footnotes at the end that I was able to research and add to my reading list from those cited in this book. Overall, it would be great for a small group or someone seeking to include both Christians and non-Christian in a group. Addresses topics that are not just for Christians but life in general. Takes you back to basics. Working on my second Bible Study group. Everyone who participated ended up doing their own study so it's a great tool for beginners like me needing a guide. Enjoyed it.
This book was great for me in renewing my walk with Christ. It also gave me permission to question certain areas but also directed me with answers to search and apply. This is a great book if someone who lacks all the training, theology that sometimes gets lost in Bible Study it's great for discussion. I purchased the workbook also.
It spoke to me in every chapter..the Bible says "Seek and ye shall find". I enjoyed reading it and was able to replace my own experiences in place of some illustrations that fit just find. It is a great "template" for discussion and would be a great source for someone who is not a Bible teacher but someone who wants to share their faith and have a healthy discussion doing so.
There are several footnotes at the end that I was able to research and add to my reading list from those cited in this book. Overall, it would be great for a small group or someone seeking to include both Christians and non-Christian in a group. Addresses topics that are not just for Christians but life in general. Takes you back to basics. Working on my second Bible Study group. Everyone who participated ended up doing their own study so it's a great tool for beginners like me needing a guide. Enjoyed it.
In this book Peter Scazzero lays out a variety of thoughts and ideas that at it's best will completely have you reevaluate your emotional health by inviting Christ into the mix. I believe the strength of Peter's work draws from not just his experience but also that of many others (the saints of the past) who have given Christianity a go over the years.
From inherited family sin to humility, Peter draws upon the power of scripture and Christ to release new revelation and strength to the reader. I am not sure what else a person could want to gain from a book.
For me, this is one of those books that the first reading just will not do. Having completed it fairly quickly I will retreat to my prayer closet seek the Lord on some obvious things and attack it again. What a valuable resource for leadership in and out of the church. For so many years I have struggled to figure out why so many committed followers of Christ struggle with the basic concepts of "freedom". This book gave me some much-needed understanding of what it means to be "whole" in Christ.
My recommendation is that you read this with your spouse or at least a really close friend. Better yet, read it on the way to a family reunion. (Seriously, that's what we did!) All the while ask the Lord what He would have you gain from such a wonderful written and well-articulated journey into Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
From inherited family sin to humility, Peter draws upon the power of scripture and Christ to release new revelation and strength to the reader. I am not sure what else a person could want to gain from a book.
For me, this is one of those books that the first reading just will not do. Having completed it fairly quickly I will retreat to my prayer closet seek the Lord on some obvious things and attack it again. What a valuable resource for leadership in and out of the church. For so many years I have struggled to figure out why so many committed followers of Christ struggle with the basic concepts of "freedom". This book gave me some much-needed understanding of what it means to be "whole" in Christ.
My recommendation is that you read this with your spouse or at least a really close friend. Better yet, read it on the way to a family reunion. (Seriously, that's what we did!) All the while ask the Lord what He would have you gain from such a wonderful written and well-articulated journey into Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
I purchased this book based on the recommendation of a trusted friend. Wow! This is one book every Christian should read, regardless of denomination. It not only explains so much, but it talks about how to fix it and actually GROW in our faith. Truly a wonderful book.
Required Reading for Christians
This is the second book by Pete Scazzero on the subject of emotionally healthy followers of Christ. The first book was The Emotionally Healthy Church, which made the point that it is impossible to have an emotionally healthy church if the leaders aren't emotionally healthy, then went on to show the various steps to achieve emotional health. This second book makes the point that it is impossible to be spiritually mature without being emotionally healthy. The same steps are prescribed (with some beneficial revision) to achieve emotional health. I believe the premises of these two books are correct as they are illustrated with sufficient examples from the authors experience, and they harmonize with my limited experience. Furthermore, the steps to achieve emotional health ring true with my limited application, and they are also illustrated and reinforced by examples from the author's rich and extensive experience. And most importantly, the results are there in the lives of those who have done the hard work of knowing themselves, examining and escaping their family baggage, accepting their limitations as a gift, facing their grief, and discovering the rhythms of the daily office. There is so much more than these brief words can describe, but suffice it to say this book should be required reading for all who call on the name of Christ.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
Incredible book! Well worth the time & energy taken to read and apply. An excellent explanation of the concepts of many of the fathers and mothers of spirituality over the centuries as applied to today's situation. In particular, Scazzero explains "the dark night of the soul" in terms that all of us can understand and then goes on to make this concept real and applicable to those who struggle with their spirituality today. A must read for everyone who wants to move forward with God.
a must read for spiritual and emotional health, which people often overlook
The ten symptoms described are very common among Christians, even for the "mature" ones. Like the author said, it is not possible for spiritually health without emotional healthy. And we cannot go forward without going backward first to check how our family background affected us, with or without we realizing it.
Discovering True Emotionally Healthy Christianity
This is another book that was required reading for the Doctorate of Ministry program this semester. The opening illustration of the man wanting to come over to talk about his problems and the author (minister) inviting him over even though he was wore out and his wife was wore out too. It was a classic case of "faking it for Jesus." The man continued to talk for hours. Instead of having boundaries, the minister allowed himself to be used and abused. The reason was he needed to be liked and well thought of regardless of his true feelings. The book does an excellent job of looking at spirituality within a emotional framework. All ministers have been used in the name of Christ. This book deals with some of the unhealthy mindsets that exist within Christianity. The book comes from a systems perspective which is beneficial to a preacher. The book was easy to read and interesting because of the real life perspectives on Christianity. It highlighted a lifestyle that would create a living and healthy spirituality within the practitioners of the steps. This was an excellent and helpful book.
For too many years I was of the mindset that self-care was selfish. I never understood that in order to continue giving I could not continue to ignore the call of my own spirit to stop, rest and reflect. I'm a thinker by divine wiring - but I had somehow come to believe that action was the only gift that mattered. The first time through this book I was stunned and relieved to acknowledge that this "need" in me to break away at points in the day to simply BE with God was not selfish at all, but the healing needed for my tired and sick spirit. I no longer push myself past my limits in order to reach a place of rest (that is always elusive - because there is always "one more thing" that can be done), but I stop and rest, reflect, refresh and relate with God along the way. I now have more of me in which to give to others. I recommend a second and third reading. I'm nearly done for a second time and have learned this time through that my feelings and emotions are part of Gods design too - to speak to me. While it may be true what some say, that feelings can't be trusted... God can be trusted. And emotions can't be ignored - after all God may be using them to teach me something - or build character. I plan on reading again in another 6 months to see what else God plans to reveal. From now on I want to live my life ever more maturely - emotionally and spiritually... to always respond appropriately to everything that comes my way.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
This book answers the question why some people can be 20, 30, 40, and even 80 and still feel and act like
they are 2 or 13. The truth really does set you free; Peter Scazzero writes from experience, and he shows you how to grow up in Christ!
they are 2 or 13. The truth really does set you free; Peter Scazzero writes from experience, and he shows you how to grow up in Christ!
Elder, Ph.D., Sunday school teacher, professor
This book is better than his book published 2003 "the emotionally healthy church", because it is well thought out and more organized. This is a very useful book for Christian leaders for renovate their private life and also their church.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
This book was awesome!! Peter Scazzero really deals with the perception of what people think the church and a relationship with God look like vs. what they truly are meant to be. He's painfully and refreshingly honest about his experiences as a Christian and as a pastor. I highly recommend this book for those who desire a committed, truthful and free relationship with the Lord.
I have just started this book and so far it is EXCELLENT! I think every Christian should read this book. It is convicting and yet the author is very transparent with his own struggles and personal "rock bottom". It is important to take your time, don't rush it. Take in every chapter and do the things that he suggests.
This book is phenomenal and has the power to make you brutally honest about your relationship to God. It seriously challenges your belief systems, your family of origin, why you think and act the way you do and how God designed you to function best. It will transform your thinking patterns and if you allow it, give you back the rhythmn of God in your life. I honestly believe this book should really be a new Christian's handbook on discipleship, because it deals with resolving emotional baggage in order to be healthy emotionally before you can move into Healthy Spirituality and know your soul is well with God. Like the caption says in the title of the book: It will unleash a revolution in your life in Christ.
Great Guide for a Healing Journey!
This is a great study to help you learn and appreciate the disciplines of prayer and meditation as well as taking a real look into who you are and where you came from. I did not get the DVD that goes along with the study but am hearing that it makes a difference having them. Enjoying the study even without it.
A MUST READ for all who seek spiritual Maturity and growth
I recently read "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality," by Peter Scazzero. This book was written as a follow up to a previous book by the same author entitled, "The Emotionally Healthy Church." I must admit that I began reading this book expecting that the author would simply "repackage" the same material from the first book, but that is not the case at all. Scazzero obviously wrote this book to share the information that he has gleaned after "The Emotionally Healthy Church" was written. This book is much deeper and more profound than "The Emotionally Healthy Spirituality" due to the intensely practical subject matter that are honestly addressed. Let me explain what I mean.
As is true in most things in life, oftentimes the best way to motivate someone to learn something new is to present the problem first. Scazzero does that very well by discussing the pain, loneliness, fear, and brokenness that plague every living person today, and even those that lead in the Church. The author spends his time here developing the idea that there is an obvious and clear connection to our emotional health and our spiritual health. He then moves on to discuss in detail the top ten symptoms that someone is emotionally unhealthy. I must admit that I have been guilty of almost every one of these symptoms in the past. Just having an awareness of these symptoms is useful because it can alert me when some area of my life is getting out of order. However, Scazzero does not leave you hanging there: recognizing the symptoms of a problem are not enough.
Scazzero then gives a detailed description of what emotional and spiritual health looks like. The chapter was so beautifully descriptive that it really makes you want it for your own life. At this point is where the book really set my mind and heart on fire! Scazzero challenged his reads to become what he calls "your authentic self." He espouses that to truly know and love God, you must learn to truly know and love yourself. To truly know myself requires that I understand my family of origin and the dynamics and history that goes alone with it. I don't have time to do it justice here, but his logic and biblical support are hard to refute.
Chapters six and seven are the section that spoke to me the most. If these two chapters were the only part that was powerfully moving and informative, I would still recommend that you go out and buy it. Scazzero has compiled the teachings of several authors in these sections to create a powerful resource for anyone who is going through "the valley of the shadow of death" type experience in their own lives or who wishes to help someone who is. The author's personal observations and encouragements contained in this section of the book were beautiful and insightful. If you don't need this information now, you probably will in the near future. We all suffer through pain and loss in life and Scazzero has provided a very practical tool that will help you in those darkest days.
In conclusion, This book does not just teach you how to be a better husband or leader; it instructs you on how to be a better human being and to be at peace "in your own skin.' To fail to read this book would be foolish due to the potential benefits that this information would have on your life. Furthermore, the change that would occur in your life would be like ripples in a pond that would affect your immediate family and everyone that you affect and influence. I loved this book and plan on sharing it with as many people as I can. I moved, inspired, and equipped me to live a healthier and happier life. Pick up a copy today and begin the journey of emotional health and contemplative spirituality. Begin reading this book immediately!
As is true in most things in life, oftentimes the best way to motivate someone to learn something new is to present the problem first. Scazzero does that very well by discussing the pain, loneliness, fear, and brokenness that plague every living person today, and even those that lead in the Church. The author spends his time here developing the idea that there is an obvious and clear connection to our emotional health and our spiritual health. He then moves on to discuss in detail the top ten symptoms that someone is emotionally unhealthy. I must admit that I have been guilty of almost every one of these symptoms in the past. Just having an awareness of these symptoms is useful because it can alert me when some area of my life is getting out of order. However, Scazzero does not leave you hanging there: recognizing the symptoms of a problem are not enough.
Scazzero then gives a detailed description of what emotional and spiritual health looks like. The chapter was so beautifully descriptive that it really makes you want it for your own life. At this point is where the book really set my mind and heart on fire! Scazzero challenged his reads to become what he calls "your authentic self." He espouses that to truly know and love God, you must learn to truly know and love yourself. To truly know myself requires that I understand my family of origin and the dynamics and history that goes alone with it. I don't have time to do it justice here, but his logic and biblical support are hard to refute.
Chapters six and seven are the section that spoke to me the most. If these two chapters were the only part that was powerfully moving and informative, I would still recommend that you go out and buy it. Scazzero has compiled the teachings of several authors in these sections to create a powerful resource for anyone who is going through "the valley of the shadow of death" type experience in their own lives or who wishes to help someone who is. The author's personal observations and encouragements contained in this section of the book were beautiful and insightful. If you don't need this information now, you probably will in the near future. We all suffer through pain and loss in life and Scazzero has provided a very practical tool that will help you in those darkest days.
In conclusion, This book does not just teach you how to be a better husband or leader; it instructs you on how to be a better human being and to be at peace "in your own skin.' To fail to read this book would be foolish due to the potential benefits that this information would have on your life. Furthermore, the change that would occur in your life would be like ripples in a pond that would affect your immediate family and everyone that you affect and influence. I loved this book and plan on sharing it with as many people as I can. I moved, inspired, and equipped me to live a healthier and happier life. Pick up a copy today and begin the journey of emotional health and contemplative spirituality. Begin reading this book immediately!
For those who have sought a desire to go 'deeper' in understanding our emotions as they relate to spirituality, this book will help you achieve some answers. The insight of the author is wonderfully communicated to help us understand the depth and width of God's love.
Good ideas and concepts, somewhat confusing execution
This book is great in one sense. It reminds you to examine yourself - that's a good thing. But the book jumps down some rabbit trails and is not clear in some areas. The titles of the chapters really tell you the theme, but the execution of those chapters feels a little lacking. It's a great concept and one I hope other writers explore.
Ready to Get Rid of the Faux Sugar Religiosity?
Peter Scazzero has hit on the heart of the problem with Christianity...in a nutshell, the heart. The heart of each individual who has claimed the term, Christian.
I think many of "us" have mistakenly accepted the belief that we can just add Jesus to our lives rather than give our lives to Him for Him to do with as He pleases.
The problem with just adding Jesus to our lives is that Christianized religiosity gives us a glaze of sugar substitute with an awful aftertaste, or extreme self-sanitization complete with noxious bleach fumes, and both extremes allow us to "function" as "Christians" without dealing with our junk.
Scazzero tells his own story toward that discovery and what he had unearthed as help along the way. Sometimes the book feels overwhelming. There is SO MUCH to do to get emotionally healthy, but then he boils it down to simplistic additions and subtractions in life. It ends up being simple as in fairly clear, as in cause and effect, but not simple as in easy. Because the bottom line for emotionally healthy spirituality looks a lot like dying to self and letting Christ live His life through us -- giving up our control for His -- and that is not easy at all. Do I recommend this book...yes, if you are really serious about changing, this one can help. But if you don't want to put the work in, you'll be frustrated.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality a well balanced book
I highly recommend this book. It is one of the most balanced Christian books I have ever read. The author encourages Christians to be "real," to stop pretending to be someone they are not. We are not kidding God. God meets us in that place of truth and at that point can transform us. I was pleased with the author's description of Spiritual Disciplines and how I can apply them to my life. I'm looking forward to experiencing a closer, more "delightful" relationship with God because of them.
The Importance of staying emotionally healthy spiritually
The book identifies areas in which Christians have denied existed in their lives. I believe in every Christian's life there has to be a balance and if our emotions are in a state of disarray, it causes our health to be off-balance and certainly our spiritual state will be off-balance as well. Since we are tripod creatures: body, soul and spirit, all of these components need to be working in conjunction with each other. This books allows Christians an opportunity to see how truth is essential for all of us to grow and develope into wholesome and productive Christ-like members of the universe.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: Liberating
Title: Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero
Pages: 227
Time spent on the "to read" shelf: 4 months.
Days spent reading it: 3 weeks.
Why I read it: The senior pastor at my church, Dave Young, suggested reading it to the elders of our church. I took him up on his suggestion.
Brief review: Peter Scazzero makes a very compelling argument that our spiritual health is tied to our emotional health. In seminary I read The Emotionally Healthy Church (EHC), and I remember loving the openness and honesty of Scazzero's writing. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality (EHS) is along the same lines as EHC. EHS simply brings the concepts of its predecessor to the layman.
In this book Scazzero shows by examples from his own life, how our emotionally immaturity has stunted our spiritual growth. There are so many ways that we can be emotionally immature. There is a lot of material in this book. I could easily see a church using it as a text for a Sunday School or small group material. The first half of the book deals with the problems that being emotionally unhealthy bring. The second half is a roadmap to emotional maturity. Scazzero illustrates very heavily from his own life throughout. As a reader I was captivated (again, because I already read the story once) by Scazzero's struggles as a pastor. A church split, a wife who stopped going to his church, reaching the end of his own strength, and then seeing the redemptive path after he opens up to his hurt, anger, and pain instead of burying it.
I would highly recommend this book. It is fairly easy to read, and very informative. There is so much information that it's almost impossible to digest it all, but I think everyone could at least start down the road that Scazzero plans and profit from his advice. Scazzero has a pastoral heart and it shines through in this book. He wants people to connect with God in a personal way, and he does that by trying to bring us to a more balanced view of our emotions and how those emotions affect our spiritual walk.
Favorite quote: Many of us know the experience of being approved for what we do. Few of us know the experience of being loved for being just who we are.
Stars: 4 out of 5.
Final Word: Liberating.
The book made me look at my faith in a new way. Being a devoted Christian is not always easy, but always rewarding. Great book. Every Christian should read if they want to grow in their faith.
A fabulous guide to spiritual growth!
This book has become of prime importance in my life as I study it over and over and share it with other Christians in my orbit. We (church members) have been taught that being a Christian involves prayer, Bible study, church attendance, small group participation, etc, but we never address the actual emotional side of the person--so, we have dear, active leading Christians and followers with huge hang-ups and obstacles to faith lurking underneath their polished "mature" exteriors. Pete Scazzero gets right to the heart of the matter with a book that's easily readable and contains the answers for those seeking more peace inside and a closer relationship with God on a lasting basis. I highly recommend reading it and sharing it!!!
First book I read that speaks of the significance of your emotional health in relation to your spiritual growth. This is in my top 3 best books I read this year. I'm buying another copy as a gift.
A great tool to grow in maturity and spirituality. Wonderful workbook to go with the text. Want to know what maturity looks like? Try this.
Emotionally Healthy Spiritually is a must read for every Christian. It is one of those books that can transform your life. I have bought 3 copies so far...I keep giving them away to others because I want them to experience true healing and wholeness. It is appropriate for anyone's life circumstance.
This is an excellent book for examining your spiritual life and seeing where you may be at a standstill. He shows how you can trace your knee-jerk reactions back to some thought processes built in your past that can keep you in a spiritual rut. Helps you take that info and transform it into healthy biblical thinking. Good book for biblically dealing with emotions. God loves when we let him open our eyes to new ways to grow. Rom. 12:1-2
Appropriate scripture references.
Appropriate scripture references.
Finally, an answer for why some people never mature spiritually!
It has been frustrating to pour hours of ministry into people that never change. Now I know why. There's more needed than just an understanding of scripture. The author explains in detail the steps to emotional health and spiritual maturity. Very helpful.
This is a follow up to his Emotionally Healthy Church targeting more the individual Christian more than church leaders. I don't agree with some of his theological positions, but the overall concept of emotional health and contemplation are great. This needs to be tempered and discerned with the readers' personality, gifts, and way of learning. The best part are his applications of Sabbath. Worth the read. I also love the way he encouraged the reader to apply the principles as they see fit and are comfortable with. A highly recommend this book to any church leader, any Christian, parent, teacher, anyone!
This book was an emotionally life-changing read for me. Scazzero does a great job of deconstructing the church's unhealthy understanding of the role emotions play in our spiritual lives and reconstructing a biblical understanding of how vital emotional health is to loving God and others.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
I absolutely love this book and everyone I know is reading it. I heard it was out of print. I hope not, cause I might want to order a few more for friends.
Refreshing look at Christian spirituality
Great book...Scazzero goes where not enough writers about Christian spirituality go: to an authentic and genuine (even if messy) relationship with the living Christ.His enouragement and practical help for doing the difficult inner work that God blesses is very helpful. Good stuff!
Peter Scazzero does a good job of mapping out growth in the spiritual life. It's a great mix of right thinking and the necessary practical behaviors that one would expect of the spiritually and emotionally mature person. Very encouraging. Inspiring.
Jump start your spiritual life
This book came to me at the perfect time. I have been stuck spiritually for awhile. It revealed some things to work on and gave me tools to get going again. Very encouraging.
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As for me, I was elated when reading chapters four ("Becoming Your Authentic Self"), five ( "Breaking the Power of the Past"), and nine ("Learning New Skills to Love Well") - because they advanced the issues that seem to be the major area of weakness for the modern day church. Pastors should pay special attention to the content of these chapters because many of them have not yet emerged as the unique person and gift that God has created them to be, often because of not dealing with these specific issues. In my opinion these chapters deserve even more development - a proper treatment could be an entire book rather than just a couple of chapters.
The rest of the book is ok, mostly a re-packaging of spiritual disciplines effectively treated by spiritual formation writers to the likes of Richard Foster and Dallas Willard. There are many thought provoking quotes throughout the book, something the author uses well in his approach to illuminating the principles of emotionally healthy spirituality.
Overall, the book is a worthwhile read. I look forward to more dialogue on this subject.