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What Really Matters: How to Care for Yourself and Serve a Hurting World
When it comes to our personal well-being, success is often more dangerous than failure. As we try to fulfill others' expectations, we deplete our time, energy, and enthusiasm and end up feeling wrung out or burned out, sometimes even flaming out in spectacular ways. It may feel like the solution is just to quit--our jobs, our passions, our ministries--but there is a way to pour into others and take care of ourselves.Sharing the dramatic, true, and untold story behind the creation of Convoy of Hope, Hal Donaldson and his daughter Lindsay Donaldson-Kring pull back the curtain on Hal's journey to greater mental, physical, and spiritual health amid the all-engrossing task of starting and sustaining a ministry. They reveal the toll ministry and compassion work can take on both individuals and families, then point toward healing and wholeness.Insightful and encouraging, this book offers practical, real-world solutions to persistent problems associated with being the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world.
192 pages, Hardcover
Published June 25, 2024
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1914 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
July 19, 2024
*University Student Review*
To preface my review, I am currently an intern with Convoy of Hope. I have been given the amazing opportunity to serve within the United States and International Disaster Services team. During the months that I have spent here at Convoy of Hope, I have come to learn a lot about what is necessary for a nonprofit of this caliber to operate. And it is not a walk in the park by any means. The people I have met here put their all into what they do. Whether that be serving the small communities of Missouri in need of groceries after a storm came through, or building a kitchen for a church in Nicaragua whose mission is to feed the starving children in the streets. I have been blessed with both these experiences and many more in just two months as a student intern at this organization. The idea of standard expectations here is not often talked about, because each employee strives to go above and beyond to ensure needs are met around the world. I say all this because I think it is important to understand the true heart of Convoy of Hope that is embedded through the leadership of Hal Donaldson and inspired by Jesus Christ. I am extremely grateful for the time I have had witnessing the depth of love shown by Convoy of Hope as an intern here.
This book was a wonderful dive into the intensity that comes with man-made goals. We set expectations that often exceed what we are capable of alone. It is important to remember that Jesus’ ministry was not this way. He was led by the spirit in all actions, including rest. Even amid the storm, Jesus knew that he could rest and rely on the protection of an almighty Father. He demonstrated this to his disciples at times when they were panicked and even angry, because he knew that this was the most important time to tune into the peace of the Holy Spirit.
The author talks about Renewing Your Mind, which to me, has always felt like an impossible task. He mentions Romans 12:2, a theme verse for myself that I can never seem to get right in my own life. Maybe this is because when I seek change, I look for opportunities to change, rather than a break to change. I think it is far easier for Christians to pursue, pursue, and pursue because we feel an imbalance between us and God that we want to make up. It takes a refining of faith to come to terms with the good nature of God that forgives us and loves unconditionally.
Donaldson mentions in the first chapter, Deadly Expectations, that he had been living like a martyr. He felt as though he had to keep moving nonstop due to his absurd sense of obligation. It took many intense encounters with God for him to understand that he was called to lead with boundaries and reasonable expectations. This chapter also reveals prideful family flaws that may have taken root in his leadership if not carefully removed.
In the second chapter, something I really want to highlight from this book is the five promises from the Word that can be used to cope with an opening wound. Without revealing too much of what the book says, I was very encouraged by these promises because they provide biblical proof that we are in God’s hands and can rely on his strength no matter what we’re up against. He also shares about some of the complexities of relationships that we struggle to navigate on our own. Especially in adult relationships, because we see our responsibilities as a higher priority that community in almost every situation. However, the truth of the matter is, we are called to relationship with Jesus Christ and with a community of believers who can encourage us and pour into us so we can pour outward toward others in need.
The last thing that I want to discuss from this book is the repetitive theme of balance throughout. Donaldson shares many stories of life with and without his own father and compares it to how he has raised his own children. He feels that he cannot balance the life of a loving father with the life of a generous giver to those in need. It requires a special kind of care, a Jesus level of care to perfectly balance these components of life. The key thing to remember if you are going through a season like this is that we are not made to have all the answers and to meet all the needs. There is a network of believers helping around the globe. We all have a part to play, but none of us ever must do it alone.
This book is an incredibly interesting read. It is full of personal stories and accounts of the authors walk through faith and struggle. It is applicable for any Christian, but especially for someone learning to balance their faith with their responsibility. We are first and foremost children of God. This means that he prioritizes his family above all things too. I think that is an important aspect of faith that is shadowed in this book and should be practiced in our lives daily.
To preface my review, I am currently an intern with Convoy of Hope. I have been given the amazing opportunity to serve within the United States and International Disaster Services team. During the months that I have spent here at Convoy of Hope, I have come to learn a lot about what is necessary for a nonprofit of this caliber to operate. And it is not a walk in the park by any means. The people I have met here put their all into what they do. Whether that be serving the small communities of Missouri in need of groceries after a storm came through, or building a kitchen for a church in Nicaragua whose mission is to feed the starving children in the streets. I have been blessed with both these experiences and many more in just two months as a student intern at this organization. The idea of standard expectations here is not often talked about, because each employee strives to go above and beyond to ensure needs are met around the world. I say all this because I think it is important to understand the true heart of Convoy of Hope that is embedded through the leadership of Hal Donaldson and inspired by Jesus Christ. I am extremely grateful for the time I have had witnessing the depth of love shown by Convoy of Hope as an intern here.
This book was a wonderful dive into the intensity that comes with man-made goals. We set expectations that often exceed what we are capable of alone. It is important to remember that Jesus’ ministry was not this way. He was led by the spirit in all actions, including rest. Even amid the storm, Jesus knew that he could rest and rely on the protection of an almighty Father. He demonstrated this to his disciples at times when they were panicked and even angry, because he knew that this was the most important time to tune into the peace of the Holy Spirit.
The author talks about Renewing Your Mind, which to me, has always felt like an impossible task. He mentions Romans 12:2, a theme verse for myself that I can never seem to get right in my own life. Maybe this is because when I seek change, I look for opportunities to change, rather than a break to change. I think it is far easier for Christians to pursue, pursue, and pursue because we feel an imbalance between us and God that we want to make up. It takes a refining of faith to come to terms with the good nature of God that forgives us and loves unconditionally.
Donaldson mentions in the first chapter, Deadly Expectations, that he had been living like a martyr. He felt as though he had to keep moving nonstop due to his absurd sense of obligation. It took many intense encounters with God for him to understand that he was called to lead with boundaries and reasonable expectations. This chapter also reveals prideful family flaws that may have taken root in his leadership if not carefully removed.
In the second chapter, something I really want to highlight from this book is the five promises from the Word that can be used to cope with an opening wound. Without revealing too much of what the book says, I was very encouraged by these promises because they provide biblical proof that we are in God’s hands and can rely on his strength no matter what we’re up against. He also shares about some of the complexities of relationships that we struggle to navigate on our own. Especially in adult relationships, because we see our responsibilities as a higher priority that community in almost every situation. However, the truth of the matter is, we are called to relationship with Jesus Christ and with a community of believers who can encourage us and pour into us so we can pour outward toward others in need.
The last thing that I want to discuss from this book is the repetitive theme of balance throughout. Donaldson shares many stories of life with and without his own father and compares it to how he has raised his own children. He feels that he cannot balance the life of a loving father with the life of a generous giver to those in need. It requires a special kind of care, a Jesus level of care to perfectly balance these components of life. The key thing to remember if you are going through a season like this is that we are not made to have all the answers and to meet all the needs. There is a network of believers helping around the globe. We all have a part to play, but none of us ever must do it alone.
This book is an incredibly interesting read. It is full of personal stories and accounts of the authors walk through faith and struggle. It is applicable for any Christian, but especially for someone learning to balance their faith with their responsibility. We are first and foremost children of God. This means that he prioritizes his family above all things too. I think that is an important aspect of faith that is shadowed in this book and should be practiced in our lives daily.
July 15, 2024
**Goodreads giveaway recipient**
I had not heard of the author’s nonprofit organization, Convoy of Hope, before, but it sounds like they do a lot of good and help a LOT of people—and I am very interested to learn more.
And while I don’t think the author touts the organization too much—talks about and mentions, yes, but not excessively or inappropriately—and there is much scripture throughout, I didn’t come away feeling refreshed and energized with a new full toolbox to help my husband (who just began in ministry). Maybe we can use some of Mr. Donaldson’s suggestions, but I suppose, mostly, we will have to find our own way. I can’t expect every revelation he has had to work for us, too.
But thank you for your work and your heart! Much admired!
I had not heard of the author’s nonprofit organization, Convoy of Hope, before, but it sounds like they do a lot of good and help a LOT of people—and I am very interested to learn more.
And while I don’t think the author touts the organization too much—talks about and mentions, yes, but not excessively or inappropriately—and there is much scripture throughout, I didn’t come away feeling refreshed and energized with a new full toolbox to help my husband (who just began in ministry). Maybe we can use some of Mr. Donaldson’s suggestions, but I suppose, mostly, we will have to find our own way. I can’t expect every revelation he has had to work for us, too.
But thank you for your work and your heart! Much admired!
July 22, 2024
A great book on doing to much at times with great stories that are very relatable. It gives practical steps to care for ourself, so then we can care for our world around us.
August 13, 2024
Great read with honest vulnerably.
March 9, 2025
I really enjoyed how much authenticity was in this book. It felt real and raw, and it pointed to Jesus without feeling overly spiritual or abstract.
February 27, 2026
I picked up What Really Matters during a difficult season of my life. I recently lost my job and, for the first time, I’m financially relying on my fiancé. If I didn’t have his support, I would feel completely hopeless. I turned to this book hoping to find comfort, encouragement, and a renewed sense of hope.
Honestly, I struggled to connect with it.
While I genuinely believe that Convoy of Hope is doing meaningful work and helping people in real, tangible ways, the book itself felt difficult for me to engage with. At times, it came across more like a platform piece than a deeply personal or comforting message. That may be my own perspective speaking, especially given that I’m in a vulnerable financial season for the first time in my life.
I’ll admit my judgment could be influenced by where I’m at emotionally. When you’re not earning money and you’re facing uncertainty, it’s easy to view success stories or organizational growth through a more skeptical lens. I found myself questioning things I might not have questioned in a different season.
That said, I did take one important truth away from this book: God has a plan for my life, and it’s my responsibility to listen and respond. Even if the book didn’t ignite the hope I was looking for, it reminded me that my current circumstances aren’t the final word.
Overall, What Really Matters didn’t resonate with me as deeply as I had hoped, but it still left me with a simple, grounding reminder that I can carry forward.
Honestly, I struggled to connect with it.
While I genuinely believe that Convoy of Hope is doing meaningful work and helping people in real, tangible ways, the book itself felt difficult for me to engage with. At times, it came across more like a platform piece than a deeply personal or comforting message. That may be my own perspective speaking, especially given that I’m in a vulnerable financial season for the first time in my life.
I’ll admit my judgment could be influenced by where I’m at emotionally. When you’re not earning money and you’re facing uncertainty, it’s easy to view success stories or organizational growth through a more skeptical lens. I found myself questioning things I might not have questioned in a different season.
That said, I did take one important truth away from this book: God has a plan for my life, and it’s my responsibility to listen and respond. Even if the book didn’t ignite the hope I was looking for, it reminded me that my current circumstances aren’t the final word.
Overall, What Really Matters didn’t resonate with me as deeply as I had hoped, but it still left me with a simple, grounding reminder that I can carry forward.
March 13, 2026
What Really Matters is a great encouragement to be mindful of how well we care for ourselves while we care for others.
In our culture, success is often measured by how much we can produce and how little we seem to need rest. The more we accomplish, the more valuable we appear. Hal Donaldson pushes back on that idea. He reminds us that God does not need anything that we can produce, but He does care deeply about how well we steward the person He created us to be.
Donaldson shares the story behind Convoy of Hope and the incredible impact the organization has had serving people in crisis around the world. But one of the things I appreciated most about this book was his honesty. While Convoy of Hope has done remarkable work, he also encourages leaders and servants not to push themselves so hard that they eventually find themselves in crisis as well.
This message feels especially relevant today. Many people are burned out, struggling with anxiety, and finding their relationships stretched thin because life has become so busy and demanding. Donaldson reminds us that the goal is not simply to do more good work—it is to keep the main thing the main thing.
Serving others matters. Compassion matters. But so does balance, rest, and healthy stewardship of our own lives.
This book is a great read for anyone involved in meaningful work—especially those who care deeply about serving others. It is both encouraging and grounding, reminding us that lasting impact comes not from exhausting ourselves, but from faithfully stewarding the life God has given us.
In our culture, success is often measured by how much we can produce and how little we seem to need rest. The more we accomplish, the more valuable we appear. Hal Donaldson pushes back on that idea. He reminds us that God does not need anything that we can produce, but He does care deeply about how well we steward the person He created us to be.
Donaldson shares the story behind Convoy of Hope and the incredible impact the organization has had serving people in crisis around the world. But one of the things I appreciated most about this book was his honesty. While Convoy of Hope has done remarkable work, he also encourages leaders and servants not to push themselves so hard that they eventually find themselves in crisis as well.
This message feels especially relevant today. Many people are burned out, struggling with anxiety, and finding their relationships stretched thin because life has become so busy and demanding. Donaldson reminds us that the goal is not simply to do more good work—it is to keep the main thing the main thing.
Serving others matters. Compassion matters. But so does balance, rest, and healthy stewardship of our own lives.
This book is a great read for anyone involved in meaningful work—especially those who care deeply about serving others. It is both encouraging and grounding, reminding us that lasting impact comes not from exhausting ourselves, but from faithfully stewarding the life God has given us.
August 14, 2024
In the book What Really Matters, authors Hal Donaldson and Lindsay Donaldson-Kring write about Hal’s life and struggles. Hal is honest and open with his struggles in life due to the tragic events that happened. Because of life’s struggles he writes: “Many live under an unspoken fear of disappointing God and not measuring up to his expectations. Psychologist Ed Welch of the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation notes, "Most people I know…. are fairly certain that God will say [to them], ‘You are such a disappointment. Forgiven, but a disappointment….’ There are no doghouses in the Kingdom of God," Welch also says. There is no punishment for shortcomings, because perfection was never God’s expectation. He knows your limitations and likely expects less of you than you may think….”
Hal writes on: “The enemy wants you to believe God has set the bar so high you are destined to fail, and he turns speed bumps into Mount Everest. He makes puddles look like the Pacific. He wants you to fix your eyes on the obstacles, but God says, Peer beyond the speed bumps to the blessings I have for you. You have a choice.”
This is a great and encouraging book with lots of personal stories. I would highly recommend this book. I received a copy of this e-book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Hal writes on: “The enemy wants you to believe God has set the bar so high you are destined to fail, and he turns speed bumps into Mount Everest. He makes puddles look like the Pacific. He wants you to fix your eyes on the obstacles, but God says, Peer beyond the speed bumps to the blessings I have for you. You have a choice.”
This is a great and encouraging book with lots of personal stories. I would highly recommend this book. I received a copy of this e-book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2024
Pays himself $400,000 a year and travels around the world, mingling, eating, and throwing million-dollar parties for paid celebrities ... all on the donor's money.
How about taking a pay cut so you can feed more hungry kids? Not going to happen.
Looks like Donaldson finally wrote a book that covers what he does well ... care for himself.
How about taking a pay cut so you can feed more hungry kids? Not going to happen.
Looks like Donaldson finally wrote a book that covers what he does well ... care for himself.
November 9, 2024
Having been a pastor for over 20 years there are many solid principles in this book I wish I’d embraced years ago. The only negative thing I can say is that he mentions Convoy of Hope far too often. It often took away from the spiritual principle he was presenting. But, other than that, it was a good book.
December 12, 2025
A great book that redirects the true purpose behind our work and how to utilize God’s visions for the greater good. Never heard of Convoy of Hope before, I loved the connection to the founding of the non-profit and how the Lord’s used one individuals obedience to bring blessings to millions others!!
October 29, 2024
This was a true story of discipleship to Christ. Hal was honest and humble about the challenges and pitfalls of leading a mind blowing humanitarian project. It is a great true story, and gives points to successful leadership for any endeavor.
February 22, 2026
Awesome book! Everyone should read this. It is honest, humble, and speaks to everybody! It is encouraging, blameless and deep yet simple. It is an easy read and provides so much wisdom, especially in today’s world.
December 19, 2024
In lieu of gifts one Christmas, my brother in law requested us to donate to Convoy of Hope. Prior to that, I wasn’t aware of how impactful this nonprofit was.
My parents are missionaries in a third world country with an extremely anti-Christian climate. Being apart of their organization, I am aware of the trials faced by Christians in the mission field more than Christians living in the US their whole lives. Living in a country like America, we live without fear of being attacked for religious beliefs and forget how blessed we are for this freedom. With so much hardships and blatant evil in the world, this book came as a gift.
The author writes with love and compassion as he shares practical tools for self care on each important level; the physical, the mental, and the spiritual. I was left feeing comforted and inspired. along with personal stories from Hal’s life, he heavily quotes scripture so each page is like being hugged. I highly recommend this book for people in the mission field, but also to anyone who has a heart to serve our loving God and Provider. The book ends with the sentence, “May the love of Jesus continue to flow through you to a hurting world.”
No matter where you are in life, physically or emotionally, let the world know we are Christians by our love!
Amen!
Shout out to Baker Books for this giveaway!
My parents are missionaries in a third world country with an extremely anti-Christian climate. Being apart of their organization, I am aware of the trials faced by Christians in the mission field more than Christians living in the US their whole lives. Living in a country like America, we live without fear of being attacked for religious beliefs and forget how blessed we are for this freedom. With so much hardships and blatant evil in the world, this book came as a gift.
The author writes with love and compassion as he shares practical tools for self care on each important level; the physical, the mental, and the spiritual. I was left feeing comforted and inspired. along with personal stories from Hal’s life, he heavily quotes scripture so each page is like being hugged. I highly recommend this book for people in the mission field, but also to anyone who has a heart to serve our loving God and Provider. The book ends with the sentence, “May the love of Jesus continue to flow through you to a hurting world.”
No matter where you are in life, physically or emotionally, let the world know we are Christians by our love!
Amen!
Shout out to Baker Books for this giveaway!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews