Freedom From Performing, by Becky Harling

Freedom From Performing: Grace in an Applause-Driven World, is a Bible study for women based upon the parables of Jesus and is graciously written by Becky Harling. In this book, she has chosen to share candidly of how she discovered joy and freedom as she learned to live for the the approval of One, not the approval of everyone. She desires that each of us women might learn to be content to be us, not some picture of perfection we've drummed up  and placed as an idol of our hearts over being who God has made us to be. She encouraged me to realize that there are times in my life when service to God will simply mean loving my husband and cherishing my children. I don't have to (and ought not to!) run myself ragged leading studies and doing church work, espeically if the reason I am doing it is because I don't want to let others down, or will feel badly about not doing it, or someone thinks that I should be doing it... and so forth. The excuses to be out of God's will while doing God's work are endless! And when you add the "keeping up with the Jones'" mentality of having to have a nice car, gorgeous home in a nice neighborhood, fancy meals, etc. it is a wonder we haven't lost our minds! Sadly though... what we don't realize is how much we DO lose when we get caught up in the spiral of a theatrical life of performance and our family, our health, and our joy suffers.

I believe this ought to be required reading for every one of us wives whose husbands are involved in ministry as a vocation (whether your husband is a pastor or a CPA, like mine!). And I believe every woman who desires to be involved with the local church read it too. And those who wag their fingers and criticize us mamas for not going and going 24/7.... well, why don't I loan you my copy. ;-)

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Navpress Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”