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Picture Perfect: When Life Doesn't Line Up
Frankly, Your Perfectionism Isn't Enough.
Perfectionism is a crushing burden that can leave us angry, anxious, and paralyzed. But the quest for perfection will never transform a heart. Amy Baker examines the root and purpose of the longing for perfection to show how God's grace transforms the aching "not enough" of perfectionism into the overflowing abundance of faith.
Perfectionism is a crushing burden that can leave us angry, anxious, and paralyzed. But the quest for perfection will never transform a heart. Amy Baker examines the root and purpose of the longing for perfection to show how God's grace transforms the aching "not enough" of perfectionism into the overflowing abundance of faith.
216 pages, Paperback
First published January 17, 2014
77 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
About the author
Amy Baker
11 books6 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Amy Baker, PhD, is the Ministry Resource Director at Faith Church (Lafayette, IN) and an instructor and counselor at Faith Biblical Counseling Ministries. On the board of directors for Vision of Hope and a council member of the Biblical Counseling Coalition, Amy is the author of Getting to the Heart of Friendships and several counseling minibooks. She and her husband Jeff have two children.
Amy Baker, PhD, is the Ministry Resource Director at Faith Church (Lafayette, IN) and an instructor and counselor at Faith Biblical Counseling Ministries. On the board of directors for Vision of Hope and a council member of the Biblical Counseling Coalition, Amy is the author of Getting to the Heart of Friendships and several counseling minibooks. She and her husband Jeff have two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
dnf
August 18, 2023I thought that this book was on a completely different topic. After starting it, I quickly realized my error and realized this wasn't the best book for me to be reading at this time (with so many other books waiting for me on the shelf).
But let me recommend this to you if you struggle with perfectionism, doing everything right, and expecting everyone else to do things perfect. I will certainly come back to this when the issue arises in my life.
But let me recommend this to you if you struggle with perfectionism, doing everything right, and expecting everyone else to do things perfect. I will certainly come back to this when the issue arises in my life.
April 6, 2022
Leitura sugerida pelo meu pastor, oportuna demais para o tempo que tenho vivido e coisas que tem acontecido em minha vida. Quantas reflexões profundas e ensinamentos valiosos!
March 13, 2014
This is an excellent book for anyone who considers themselves to be a perfectionist or have been told they're a perfectionist. If you are frustrated because you don't think you measure up to your standards or other people's standards, you need to read this book. If you're trying to please people, you need to read this book.
Amy Baker gives many practical examples of how perfectionism manifests in a variety of people's lives. It doesn't look the same in everyone. Then she shows why the perfectionism thinking is wrong when placed next to scripture.
It is eye-opening and challenging. I will need to continue using it as a reference book to return to as I seek to make biblical changes in my life.
Amy Baker gives many practical examples of how perfectionism manifests in a variety of people's lives. It doesn't look the same in everyone. Then she shows why the perfectionism thinking is wrong when placed next to scripture.
It is eye-opening and challenging. I will need to continue using it as a reference book to return to as I seek to make biblical changes in my life.
March 18, 2019
As a perfectionist in progress, this book was a tremendous help to me and will continue to be. I took so many notes and plan on reviewing them regularly. The book is full of case studies that make the biblical teaching really practical. I found the chapters on guilt and false guilt especially insightful.
July 10, 2014
Amy Baker looks at the pitfalls of perfectionism and examines the root and purpose of the longing for perfection to show God's grace and how it transforms this quest into a joyful walk of faith.
Amy Baker, PhD is the Ministry Resource Director at Faith Church in Lafayette, In. This is a wonderful book for counselors and should be read twice, once for yourself and once for being a good counselee. If you think you don't have a need to read about the trying to be perfect, you better think again.
She described various perfectionists to order to uncover some of the foundational issues that underlie perfectionism. Her case studies are believable and you can see the effect on those around them. In part 2 she describes some key concepts that set the stage for change to take place. Her Biblical references are right on. In part 3 she tackles specfic areas that are often troublesome for perfectionists, like fear of failure, guilt, pride, criticism, shame and learning to rest.
Even though you might now think of yourself struggling with perfectionism, I think there is much in her book that any Christian trying hard to be meet God's standard on our own. Have you put performance over relationship? This book is very helpful with its practical applications and wise scriptural counselling. The discussion questions and endnotes, make it very usable.
Amy Baker, PhD is the Ministry Resource Director at Faith Church in Lafayette, In. This is a wonderful book for counselors and should be read twice, once for yourself and once for being a good counselee. If you think you don't have a need to read about the trying to be perfect, you better think again.
She described various perfectionists to order to uncover some of the foundational issues that underlie perfectionism. Her case studies are believable and you can see the effect on those around them. In part 2 she describes some key concepts that set the stage for change to take place. Her Biblical references are right on. In part 3 she tackles specfic areas that are often troublesome for perfectionists, like fear of failure, guilt, pride, criticism, shame and learning to rest.
Even though you might now think of yourself struggling with perfectionism, I think there is much in her book that any Christian trying hard to be meet God's standard on our own. Have you put performance over relationship? This book is very helpful with its practical applications and wise scriptural counselling. The discussion questions and endnotes, make it very usable.
December 17, 2022
The most helpful aspect of this book are the many case studies Amy Baker uses to illustrate perfectionism. As one who does not struggle greatly with perfection, I was still able to see myself in many of the people she described, and realize that I do have perfectionistic tendencies. This book is packed full of sound biblical help and hope.
August 11, 2022
I found myself on every page of this book. But more importantly, I found the perfect Redeemer who has clothed me with His righteousness. Complete in Him, I can stop worshiping the god of perfection and rest in the Perfect One who is conforming me into His image.
April 16, 2021
This book touches on the subtle ways that perfectionism surprises us in every day life. Being afraid to try new things because you think you may fail at it, being shameful because you constantly compare yourself to others, feeling overly apologetic and guilty, procrastinating and never feeling like you’ll measure up all have roots in perfectionist tendencies. I particularly love how Amy preaches the gospel as a remedy to perfectionism. Christ has already lived out the perfect life on our behalf and there are many sweet riches for us to behold and rest in through His sacrifice. Such an encouragement and hope for perfectionists like me!
September 27, 2019
This should definitely be filed under “spiritual growth.” It’s not a fun read, either in subject matter or in the actual reading of it (the style isn’t super engaging) but it was good for me. Would recommend for anyone who gets weighed down by perfectionism in any of its forms (people-pleasing, climbing the ladder, moral perfectionism, etc). This book helped me think through areas where I can experience new freedom in Christ because of HIS perfection.
November 2, 2024
A convicting book which brings to question your motives for high expectations and standards of excellence. The reality is your expectations aren’t high enough. You are satisfied with perceived external perfection and not internal righteousness. Dr. Baker challenges the reader to be complete in Christ and find rest in His grace.
May 24, 2024
This resource is excellent. I was really challenged and convicted by this book. I struggle with perfectionism, which means… I struggle with pride.
From reading this, I’m more in awe of God’s mercy in Christ and the gospel. I highly recommend this resource.
From reading this, I’m more in awe of God’s mercy in Christ and the gospel. I highly recommend this resource.
November 24, 2024
Thorough study on perfectionism and covers many different aspects/ angles including biblical standards vs our own, fear, shame, humility, and practical steps forward.
November 10, 2015
Book on perfectionism. Somewhat disappointing, as I expected more depth in analysis or maybe I am just a perfectionist who is never happy with anything! :) It deals with the symptoms well and gives good examples of how perfectionism shows up differently in people. However, more could have been done of exposing the root of it. Actually, on a personal note, the more I read this book, the more I realized that God has delivered me from a lot of my perfectionism with the gospel over the years...lot more work to be done, but I praise God for being my perfect, spotless righteousness!
March 6, 2016
Perfectionists, you need to read this book and get a good look at yourself in the mirror. Only then can you comb your hair right.
I give it 3.8 out of five stars. I'm sure some of the quotes I highlighted will find their way into a study book I'm writing about having the correct focus in life. There is good stuff here.
This book started to feel repetitive about halfway in, but there is a solid scriptural basis for all her points. For that reason, it took awhile to wade through the last portion.
I give it 3.8 out of five stars. I'm sure some of the quotes I highlighted will find their way into a study book I'm writing about having the correct focus in life. There is good stuff here.
This book started to feel repetitive about halfway in, but there is a solid scriptural basis for all her points. For that reason, it took awhile to wade through the last portion.
January 20, 2016
I did not realize all the ways perfectionism influenced my thinking, or how such thinking undermines the gospel of my perfect Savior. Through relatable illustrations and the skillful application of Scripture, Baker does an excellent job of looking at this topic through a Biblical lens.
January 9, 2017
Well worth reading
Interestingly, Baker's book speaks to a wide range of people. More of us are perfectionists than might describe ourselves as such.
5 stars - Well-developed with much Scripturally-based insight
3 stars - A bit redundant at times
Interestingly, Baker's book speaks to a wide range of people. More of us are perfectionists than might describe ourselves as such.
5 stars - Well-developed with much Scripturally-based insight
3 stars - A bit redundant at times
March 7, 2015
Very relatable and also challenging, helping remind you of your identity in Christ
February 22, 2016
Life changing. This really is one of the best books I have read on applying the beautiful truths of the gospel to the complex and deep issue of perfectionism.
December 22, 2016
Overall good. Don't quit agree with her advise on not quitting. Should allow for the humility to admit not being able to do something rather than just keep going to show that you can one day do it.
December 20, 2017
There is no such thing as being perfect. It’s good to be your best but you can’t live to please people. What is Gods standard? How do we deal with the perfectionists?
November 9, 2018
If you can't say "Amen," say "Ouch"...
January 20, 2021
An excellent, very practical, Biblical book that targets a very significant struggle that many of us have. I've seen Perfectionism pop up in my life in some areas and I've counseled people who are shot through with the Perfectionist bug and they are destroying relationships left and right. In my own life, I've seen selective perfectionism, driven by a fear of man and circumstances, a fear that shows I've far too often imbibed at the idolatrous altar of acceptance, honor, praise, adoration, control, etc. Those things don't make good masters.
Baker, in this tremendously helpful book, brings indepth understanding to the issue, providing the reader with practical counsel on how to deal a death blow to the cravings of perfectionism, but balances that with counsel on how to live a life that is pleasing to the Master (Jesus Christ) while doing whatever our hands find to do, doing so with all of our might, as unto the Lord. This book would be an excellent tool for counselors to use for counseling the perfectionist. Likewise, it would be excellent resource for the weary follower of Christ who is pursuing perfectionism, but for all the wrong reasons.
Baker, in this tremendously helpful book, brings indepth understanding to the issue, providing the reader with practical counsel on how to deal a death blow to the cravings of perfectionism, but balances that with counsel on how to live a life that is pleasing to the Master (Jesus Christ) while doing whatever our hands find to do, doing so with all of our might, as unto the Lord. This book would be an excellent tool for counselors to use for counseling the perfectionist. Likewise, it would be excellent resource for the weary follower of Christ who is pursuing perfectionism, but for all the wrong reasons.
July 26, 2022
I've had the privilege to sit in on and observe a few counseling sessions by the author and loved her gentle way of coming alongside those struggling with truth and compassion. So I've been really looking forward to tackling this! (Aaaaand maybe a little scared if I'm honest...)
Sure enough, I definitely felt like it spoke right to my heart and struggles. Fellow perfectionists: Only pick up if you want to be convicted, fair warning.
I didn't particularly connect with the case-study writing style. I found it distracting and would have preferred to have the book be half the length but spoken right to the audience rather than through a plethora of sample characters/stories. But that may be just me.
But the truth she covers, phew. So good. Basically, perfectionism is exhausting, never delivers what it promises, and will kill your relationships and happiness. The only solution is to serve a different Master...
I particularly found the sections on false guilt and criticism enlightening.
It seemed to ramble a little at times, but overall I really enjoyed this and found it helpful. Extremely rooted in Scriptures, and I could also see how it would be a very useful counseling resource!
Would recommend! Lots of highlights I am still pondering.
Sure enough, I definitely felt like it spoke right to my heart and struggles. Fellow perfectionists: Only pick up if you want to be convicted, fair warning.
I didn't particularly connect with the case-study writing style. I found it distracting and would have preferred to have the book be half the length but spoken right to the audience rather than through a plethora of sample characters/stories. But that may be just me.
But the truth she covers, phew. So good. Basically, perfectionism is exhausting, never delivers what it promises, and will kill your relationships and happiness. The only solution is to serve a different Master...
I particularly found the sections on false guilt and criticism enlightening.
It seemed to ramble a little at times, but overall I really enjoyed this and found it helpful. Extremely rooted in Scriptures, and I could also see how it would be a very useful counseling resource!
Would recommend! Lots of highlights I am still pondering.
October 3, 2019
Excellent book for perfectionists (or even just people who have those tendencies in smaller areas of life)! Amy Baker does a great job at balancing practical help with timeless truth about what our perfectionist tendencies actually say about our hearts.
Admittedly, I don't fall into the overall perfectionist category (though there are a few areas in which I am a perfectionist), but there were several people who I was thinking about while I was reading this and how this could be helpful in their lives.
Whether you are or are not a perfectionist, I would advise any reader of this book to take the time to examine your own heart and motives as you read this helpful book. The material may be life-changing, but if you just gloss over it, it will not serve you as well as it could. Ask a friend or your spouse to walk through the examination process with you as you go through this book.
Admittedly, I don't fall into the overall perfectionist category (though there are a few areas in which I am a perfectionist), but there were several people who I was thinking about while I was reading this and how this could be helpful in their lives.
Whether you are or are not a perfectionist, I would advise any reader of this book to take the time to examine your own heart and motives as you read this helpful book. The material may be life-changing, but if you just gloss over it, it will not serve you as well as it could. Ask a friend or your spouse to walk through the examination process with you as you go through this book.
June 28, 2022
A good book, really, to work through our lives and struggles as perfectionists and receive practical Scripture-based advice that truthfully confronts our realities as failures to live up to Christ’s perfect standard. The book provides an encouragement to persevere in order to glorify God along the way in this life.
May 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ This book has many helpful and convicting insights. As a person who struggles with perfectionism tendencies, I found this applicable to my life but there were some areas I struggled with. I think one example scenario was not the best example to use and I felt she should have went a little deeper into deciding whether to quit something or not. I felt her statement was too general.
November 29, 2019
Unfortunately, this book is mired in the biblicism of nouthetic (so called "biblical") counselling. Many beneficial ideas are framed in weak theology and the simplistic counselling approach of men like John MacArthur and Jay Adams. Worth a read for thinkers who can pick out the bones.
February 22, 2024
This book gets right to the heart issues of those who struggle with perfectionism. The author provides gospel-centered counsel and biblical insight, coupled with relatable examples and practical application. Highly recommended for anyone who struggles in the area of perfectionism.
February 26, 2022
Excellent. Read this.
September 11, 2024
One of my favorite books of 2023! This is the perfect read for anyone struggling with burn out or feeling like they aren't measuring up in life. I was incredibly encouraged in my walk with Christ.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews