Resource Recommendation: In Our Lives First

I’m sure you have heard the saying that you cannot lead someone where you have never been. As those who care for the spiritual and emotional needs of others we must be diligent to care for our own souls as well. There are many excellent books written specifically for those in ministry. One of my favorites is Diane Langberg’s In Our Lives First: Meditations for Counselors. It was recommended to me when I first started counseling others and I think it would be extremely helpful to anyone in ministry or to those who just want to care for others. The book contains forty short readings that show us how our own growth is necessary if we want to aid in the growth of others. This is a great supplement to your bible study plan and would make a wonderful Christmas gift to other counselor or ministry leaders. Here are a few quotes to give you a taste of the book.

“When the dominate note of my life becomes what others need, I will drown. The needs of this world are far beyond my capacity to meet. I do not take my orders from the needs I see, but from my Lord.” page 10

“The idea is not that we push and pull on others to get them to change in some aspect of their lives, but rather that we do the hard work of change as we submit to the work of the Spirit in our lives first.” page 48

“Ask the Lord to show you where you are prone to stop listening and learning.” page 45

Dr. Langberg has over 40 years of experience working with trauma survivors and ministry leaders and in this book she shares a great deal of wisdom. You can order it at the link below.