Before You Climb Any Higher: Valley Wisdom for Mountain Dreams

by Jonathan McReynolds, Thomas Nelson (publisher)

Read by the author.

We long for mountaintop experiences, but they’re difficult to achieve and impossible to maintain without the rest, nourishment, and strength found in lush, life-giving valleys. GRAMMY Award winner Jonathan McReynolds shows us why having a valley mindset is not what you think—it’s about receiving God’s grace, love, and encouragement as His beloved child.

Life is full of mountains to ascend, driven by our dreams, ambitions, and callings. But it doesn’t take much for even the strongest climbers to grow weary or lose their way. It’s important to have a “mountain mindset” to help us establish goals, to make steady progress, to achieve success, to do big things for God. A great mission requires from us a little grind, a little hustle, a little competition. But also plenty of time in the valley.

Most people equate valley moments with difficulty and pain, but a “valley mentality” is different according to Jonathan McReynolds. He’s reached the mountaintop—GRAMMY Award, nationwide tours, millions of followers, and more—but he experienced more refreshment, rest, and encouragement from the Lord off the mountain. He writes, “The valley is not about finishing anything, studying anything, or doing anything, but simply being a child of God.” In Before You Climb Any Higher, readers will

Taking breaks from climbing is necessary for your mental healthWays to find rest, renewal, and authentic community in the valleyIdentity should never be wrapped up in success and accoladesHow to prepare for the mountain climb with lessons learned in the valleyIt’s possible to live abundantly in the valley and on the mountain

We are more than our accomplishments, more than our mountaintop accomplishments. We are sons and daughters of God, who is calling us to rest in the valley, to replenish our souls, to be formed by the Spirit, to discover abundant life that is found only in Him.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Self Help, Biography

Audible Audio

Published February 18, 2025

Reviews

[Shauntelle (myglamorousreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a big fan of Jonathan McReynolds, so I was excited to listen to this audiobook by him that he narrates. This book was part memoir and part motivational, and I really enjoyed every second of it. Jonathan McReynolds is a very relatable person, and I was also able to relate to him in this book. There were so many good nuggets included that I found myself re-listening to certain parts.

McReynolds put his heart and soul into this book, he is a man that is wiser than his years. He has always given me warmth and authenticity, and it flowed through to this book. I feel that “the climb” is something everyone has struggled with in one way or another. This story offers encouragement, advice, and Biblical wisdom, as well as tips for shifting our mindsets.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers of the book and audiobook for the ARC and ALC in exchange for my honest review.

[ReadnliftwithShar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best thing about “Before You Climb Any Higher” is how relatable it is for any age group or faith member to understand. It is jammed packed with life lessons, thought-provoking moments and scenarios, and steps to handle a variety of things. By the time I completed the story, I understood that before I pursue my mountain top, I have got to have a stable foundation, or “valley” as mentioned in the story. And once the climb is completed, “Continue to exhale self and inhale God, one step at a time, until you make it home to the valley.” The author also stated “Remember that as you progress up your mountain, you will eventually notice its scarcity.” If this wasn’t the word I needed!

I found myself highlighting passages at a time because in this season of my life, moving up the “ladder” and success is the goal, and the book helped put things into perspective. Yes, I want to reach the mountain top, but what will I do when I get there? Do I have the tools to withstand any hurdles? Am I strong enough mentally, and what type of support system do I have for those moments when I “can’t”. All of these questions were asked and answered in a variety of ways throughout the book and I was making sure that I was taking notes.

Absolutely recommend this book!

*arc copy/book tour

[Kaliah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited to read this book authored by Johnathan McReynolds, Grammy award winning gospel artist known for creating songs that resonate on a heart level with people seeking a deeper more meaningful relationship with God.

It’s no surprise that his book is just as relatable as his song lyrics. In it he uses personal anecdotes to highlight issues that we all experience in our quest to balance our drive to climb higher up the mountain (whatever that mountain represents for you) with our need for grounding, rest, and replenishment that can be found in the valley.

There is so much glory to that comes with achievement, and often God’s calling on our lives will inadvertently push us further up the mountain. Yet and still it is unrealistic to live in a perpetual state of climbing. Inevitably we will need to rest and sometimes that might look like coming down from the mountain and spending time in the valley where we can come back to ourselves and recenter our relationship with God. I appreciate this perspective so much because in my own faith walk I have thought of the valley as a scary place that we must endure for a time while hanging onto the faith in God’s promises to bring us out. This book helped me shift my thinking to see the valley not as someplace scary that should be avoided, but rather as a place of refuge, love, connection, community, service to others, and restoration.

I truly believe that it was divine order that I had the privilege read Before You Climb Any Higher when I did. I am currently experiencing uncertainty related to my employment which has been a cloud over me for a few weeks now. The author’s words affirmed so much of what God has been whispering to my spirit lately which is to trust Him no matter what happens. Whether on the mountain or in the valley God wants me to take the best care of myself physically and spiritually and either way if I keep my mind and heart set on Him I can get through anything while maintaining my peace and my joy. I will cherish this book for helping to give me a sense of peace for whatever lies ahead. This book is for Christian’s who are looking for encouragement whether from the top of your mountain, resting in the valley, or somewhere in between!

Sincere thanks to @Hearourvoicestours for the opportunity to review this book and participate in this book tour!!

I highly recommend listening to worship music while reading, especially to Johnathan McReynolds songs because so many of his lyrics align nicely with this book’s message!

Make these songs into your Before You Climb Any Higher Playlist!!

🎶 Pressure - Johnathan McReynolds
🎶 Adulting - Johnathan McReynolds
🎶 Breathe - by Maverick City Music ft Johnathan McRedynolds
🎶 Make Room - Johnathan McReynolds
🎶 God is Good - Johnathan McReynolds
🎶 Awesome - Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago

[Gigisxm · Rating 2 out of 5]

It’s part memoir, part Christian self help, part sermon, part advice to new Christians. But it’s mainly a guide on how to navigating greatness, service and Christianity. He is squarely at the intersection of all 3. He touches lightly on his rise to fame and burn out. Although I can relate to the pressure of ministry and the tolll it can take on your health, ultimately I wasn’t the target audience for this one. I think that would be his peers and there aren’t too many people on this level. A lot of us aren’t concerned with the mountain top. I do wish he had gone more into the pressure of maintaining the facade at times. Pouring into others when your own cup is in need of replenishment.

At one point he said he would probably go deep into his bout with depression in another book, sir how about this book!? Seems the earnestness I sought in this one will be in the next. Still a great read for people in similar situations, just not relevant to the masses

[April · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was tough for me to relate with aspects of the author’s journey. I don’t share his drive to be “the best” in my given field and I certainly don’t have the fame and platform that he has, so some of the lessons learned that he shared just don’t apply to my life. I appreciate his vulnerability to share about his journey “down the mountain” and into the valley, but I’m not sure how helpful this book is for regular degular folks.

[Charell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook Review: Before You Climb Any Higher by Jonathan McReynolds
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

Jonathan McReynolds delivers an inspiring mix of memoir and motivation in Before You Climb Any Higher, offering wisdom on embracing both the mountaintops and valleys of life. While success and ambition push us to climb, McReynolds reminds us that true growth happens in the valleys—where we rest, reflect, and reconnect with who we are.

Narrated by the author himself, the audiobook feels like a heart-to-heart with a friend. His storytelling is warm, personal, and relatable, whether he’s sharing “Valley Talk” with his mom or the keepsakes that remind him of his purpose. While faith is central to his message, the lessons—self-acceptance, resilience, and knowing when to pause—resonate with anyone striving for something greater.

This book is both a reality check and a reminder to enjoy the journey, not just the destination. A solid, uplifting listen for anyone looking to balance ambition with reflection.

Disclosure: Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this audiobook for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[sweetconnectionswithtoni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jonathan is a new author for me and so far, I've read 3 of his books and they were all good!

This book is so good, inspiring, and encouraging. It is based off of biblical principle and he does mention scriptures. Being seen is being understood, no one is looking down on you. Chapter 5 made me teary eyed, his grandmother in her last days. Whew.

No matter how high you go, you're still invisible, the mountain!

Teach us to recognize when someone can see us, such a great word!

Be just Human! Staying on the mountain can cause loneliness.

New Levels New Devils
Keep your faith or lose heart

Highly Recommeded!!

Thank you Netgalley, Jonathan McReynolds, and Thomas Nelson for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.

This is a review of the audiobook.

[Adrea Crump · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jonathan McReynolds is one of my favorite Gospel artist. I just love his music and how his words are always so touching!! This book was everything. No mountain id to hard to climb if you trust in God. I love how he told his story of life and that everything isn’t easy byt the end result either God on your side you can accomplish it all. We go through valleys!! I loved how he use the things of life that we all battle with trying to reach those goals. This book was very motivating!! Definitely highlighted some gems on of this read!!! I am a daughter of the father and with him all things are possible!!

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

The only reason this wasn't a 5 star for me is because it seems like I was in my Sunday School class. I listened to the audiobook along with the physical book. I must say it was informative and interesting. I should have read this book without the audiobook.

[Vanessa Herrera · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sincere thanks to Jonathan McReynolds, Thomas Nelson, and W Publishing for providing this audiobook via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review!

Jonathan McReynolds delivers a powerful and introspective journey in Before You Climb Any Higher offering his wisdom, vulnerability, and faith-filled encouragement for anyone seeking clarity in their purpose. One of the highlights of this audiobook is that Jonathan narrates it himself, I think the combo of his soothing voice and heartfelt delivery make the experience feel personal, as if he’s speaking directly to you, as his friend!

I received an audiobook copy, which I thoroughly enjoyed, but I think the physical version would be even better to annotate and reflect on key takeaways. My two favorite sections are when he talks about the difference between striving and surrendering, reminding us that success isn't just about pushing harder but also about trusting God's timing. His insights challenge the idea that we have to have everything figured out before we take the next step. The other favorite is when he discusses how people can become unhappy because they’re trying to rush through their valley season. He reminds us that difficult times serve a purpose, and when we try to fast-forward through them, we risk missing the growth and preparation that God intends for us. That perspective really resonated with me as I’m currently in a valley season that has been extended way longer than I could’ve imagined.

This book is both inspiring and practical, perfect for anyone navigating transitions in life. Whether you’re a longtime fan of his music or just here for some wisdom, this is a must-read (or listen)!

[Jay DeMoir · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was curious about what the author would have to say. Glad I read this.

[babygirllit (Tish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, @hearourvoicestours, for a copy of the book.

Before You Climb Any Higher is more than just a title.

After reading this book, I knew that I needed to read it again. This time, I will focus on my life in depth as I go through each chapter. There was so much that I could relate to because I am on a healing journey (mind, body, and soul).

I am so glad that I was given the opportunity to read this book. It was so much more than I expected. With what I am going through, this book came at the right time.

Great job!

Some of my favorite quotes:
🪜Whether you accomplish a lot or fail, living on the mountain - more precisely, living with a mountain mindset - has everything to do with your mild to obsessive preoccupation with success.

🪜The most awesome task is climbing the mountain God instructs us to without letting it change our core relationship with and identity in Him.

🪜Everyone can't go up with you.

🪜The valley is not about finishing anything, studying anything, or doing anything, but simply being a child of God. In this valley, there is shedding of trauma, renewing of identity, a humbling, a de-stressing, and a river of God's recharging presence.

🪜Yes, God is in control of everything;

🪜Remember, the lower you get, the more evidence of life there is - the life you can have beyond the cares of career and assignment.

🪜And most of all, sinking into the valley, being honest with God - brutally honest about my sins, my temptations, my fears, my frustrations, my frustrations with Him -
showed me the work I needed to do on me.

🪜"Don't let the mountain change you."

🪜We should never climb without spending adequate time in the valley.

[Kiera · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book…this book…this book! Jonathan McReynolds truly blessed me from the first page to the very last. There were a few quotes that resonated with me, but the one that truly struck home was, “I realized I had been climbing for years—and now I was choking alone in the high altitude.”
The author did a beautiful job of blending Biblical scriptures with his personal experiences. You can feel his authenticity come off the pages. One part that got to me was when he had a meltdown. I could relate, because it happened to me not too long ago. Another quote that I actually highlighted to come back to is, “God has a way of starting stuff. You look up and suddenly, the conditions seem to be perfect for a new job, a new love, or a new pursuit. It’s because the conditions were orchestrated.”
Here are a few more of my favorite quotes:
1. Everyone can't go up with you. Very few people are graced to climb the unique mountain you’re climbing.
2. The most awesome task is climbing the mountain God instructs us to without letting it change our core relationship with and identity in Him.
3. We should never climb without spending adequate time in the valley.
4. Whether you accomplish a lot or fail, living on the mountain - more precisely, living with a mountain mindset - has everything to do with your mild to obsessive preoccupation with success. The valley is not about finishing anything, studying anything, or doing anything, but simply being a child of God. In this valley, there is shedding of trauma, renewing of identity, a humbling, a de-stressing, and a river of God's recharging presence.
5. "Don't let the mountain change you."

[Aleka C. Thrash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jonathan McReynolds was in my Top 3 artists on my Spotify Wrapped—so to say I was excited to read this book is an understatement!

McReynolds pours his heart and soul into this book, sharing his personal mountaintop and valley experiences and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He doesn’t just talk about the highs he gets real about the pressure, burnout, and overwhelming expectations that success can bring. And his honesty is what truly sets this book apart from others in the Christian living and personal growth genre.

He challenges readers not to let success drain them physically, spiritually, or mentally and, most importantly, not to let it change their relationship with or identity in God.

I have so many highlighted sections and notes! As someone who has experienced success, extreme burnout, and is determined never to go back, this book is a much-needed reminder to keep God at the center of every goal, dream, and ambitious idea.

Biggest takeaway so far:
“More than anything, it would take faith—that God is real. That He thinks of me as His child, wants me home, and will draw near to me as I draw near to Him.” (p. 103)

This book officially releases on February 18, and I will be listening to the audiobook for a reread! Highly recommend.

Thank you, Jonathan for the ARC copy & the Life Room book tour experience!

[Orsayor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jonathan McReynolds has a way of blending wisdom with warmth, making Before You Climb Any Higher feel like a conversation with a trusted friend. In this book, he takes us beyond the idea that success is just about reaching the mountaintop and instead invites us to embrace the valley—the quiet, uncelebrated seasons where true growth happens.

So often, we’re told to push, grind, and hustle, but McReynolds reminds us that rest isn’t just a pause; it’s a necessity. His transparency about his own journey—from winning GRAMMYs to recognizing that his true identity isn’t in the accolades—makes this book both inspiring and deeply relatable. He challenges readers to shift their mindset: the valley isn’t a place of failure but a space where we can truly connect with God, refresh our spirits, and prepare for the next climb.

This book is for anyone feeling weary from the climb, questioning their purpose, or struggling to find joy in the journey. McReynolds offers practical encouragement and biblical truths that remind us we are more than our achievements—we are God’s children, called to find fulfillment not just in the highs but in the in-between moments as well.

A refreshing, perspective-shifting read that reminds us: the valley isn’t the end of the journey—it’s part of it.

[Kate (bookishkenyannerd) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been forever since I picked up a non-fiction book. I've loved Jonathan McReynolds' music for years and was intrigued when this came up on Netgalley. I loved hearing his origin story. "God started it."

There are also so many other notes I took down but these stood out to me:
- "The most awesome task is climbing the mountain God instructs us to without letting it change our core relationship and identity in Him."
- Contrary to the bad rep that valleys get (eg, valley of dry bones, valley of the shadow of death), they are actually places of rest as compared to the exertion required for the mountain.
- Whilst climbing the mountain, take the valley's sustenance with you in order to survive up there.

Quite the refreshing book for when you feel caught up in the rat race or responsibilities become too much for you. I loved the audio which he did the narration on. Felt like he was talking directly to me.

Thank you to Netgalley and Publisher for an ALC. All opinions are my own.

[Shilo · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The best and worst you can ever be is a child of God." This book is filled with such wisdom that helps alleviate some of the stress and struggle of trying to make it in today's world. "Before you Climb Any Higher" took me a little to get into it because I kept thinking of the valley as being a bad thing, but McReynolds is very clear that the valley is actually a great place to be. I also found the book a little difficult to get into because I didn't feel that I was on the mountain like he was, but then the more I read the more I saw that you don't have to be a celebrity to be climbing the mountain, you just have to be striving for the life God wants for you.
The book is filled with wisdom and some humorous anecdotes that made this book a very enjoyable listen/read.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the audio ARC. My opinion of the book is my own and was not influenced by receiving a copy of the book.

[Zara · Rating 5 out of 5]

At a time in my own life when I question what success really is and how do I know it when it comes and whe is enough, enough, this book outlines the same chellenge for Jonathan. His story is unique to him but there were so many similarities my face often twisted when he would mention some ''mountain mentality" that I had been exhibiting. My new question is .... how quickly can I get to the Valley!!

Thus gives quite a bit of insight in the journey of this multi-talented artist but is focussed more on the lessons learned with anecdotes from his own life. As a fan of his, I am encouraged yo listen to his music a little more intently, jnowing that it is written from the Valley and has nourishment than will help me to find mine.

Also ... very well written, no extra fluff. The flow of the entire book was organic. It was easy to follow. The audiobook in his voice was superbly narrated. Kudos!

[Cheryl McGhee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Grammy Award-winning Gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds, known all over the world for his anointed singing and songwriting pours his heart and soul out in his personal story of mountain top vs. valley experiences and shares with his readers lessons learned on how to handle the overwhelming pressure the “good life “ can bring.

McReynolds warns all to not allow success to drain us physically, spiritually or mentally and to not change your relationship with or identity in God because of it. McReynolds is honest about his sometimes sinful past, and shares personal aspects of his life in this book, which was refreshing because of his honest “lay it all on the table” approach.

After realizing that all his health issues stemmed from stress, he allowed God to show him that the Creator himself is in the valley as well and began allowing His love to bring him out.

[Shae Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

At some point in our lives, we are all required to be something. We find ourselves being parents, workers, friends, creatives. While we are trying to fulfill our roles excellently, we forget our fundamental identity: a child of God.

In this book, Jonathan McReynolds gives practical advice on being a child of God before, during, and after we do what God has called us to do. It’s filled with funny stories and the way he writes is just cute (like the way he talks). I’m not sure how else to put it. I just love a godly nerd.

I saw another review which claimed this book is only relatable to people in Jonathan’s situation. I completely disagree. I am a teacher and I relate to the mountain life. I think anyone who cares about excellence is going to relate. Or, anyone who cares about serving their family/community.

[Leah T. Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Grounding, Soulful Read

Before You Climb Any Higher by Jonathan McReynolds is the kind of book that gently shakes you awake. It doesn’t rush or preach—it reflects. I went into it expecting encouragement, but what I got was so much more: a perspective shift.

What stood out most to me was the reminder that the valley isn’t a place to rush out of—it’s a place to learn, to reflect, to grow. It validated feelings I’ve had but didn’t know how to name. I even considered making a “depressed playlist” to match the mood I’ve been in—but McReynolds shifted that for me, turning the focus toward who you can vent to and who you can lean on. That change—subtle but powerful—stuck with me.

This book isn’t just for the person trying to climb out of something—it’s for the person learning that there’s meaning while you’re still in it.

[Jacoby · Rating 5 out of 5]

incredible in every facet of the word

This book shows us how to embrace what we want to achieve in life while understanding who we are in life. This book doesn’t discourage us from climbing and achieving goals and wanting more, it helps us establish a firm foundation in the Lord before we take another step higher. It helps us mentally, physically and spiritually be full without the mountain, so that we don’t expect to fill nourishment from the mountain. This book is a necessary, ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY, guide for anyone who is getting stressed or overwhelmed trying to pursue anything or for anyone who is just searching for the right peace that they can’t seem to find any where In their daily life. Thank you Jonathan for this book🙏🏾

[Karlencia Calvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Reminder to enjoy the now!

Jonathan McReynolds has been one of my favorite gospel artists since the first time I heard “Why.” This book just revealed to me why his music touches me on such a deep level: our struggles are similar. This book reminds us who are constantly looking to achieve the next thing that achieving isn’t what’s important: the journey and our growth in our relationship with God is. I now have a practical reminder to climb down the mountain of achievement to be reminded of who’s daughter I am whenever the air up top gets a little too lacking in oxygen. Thank you, Mr. McReynolds.

[Bookish.Rwi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a big fan of Jonathan McReynold’s music, when I got an email from NetGalley with the audio ARC, I was ecstatic .

This book is a mix of memoirs and motivations. I love that he incorporated his real life experiences in a motivational book.

Few chapters in I thought, this is for artists and the celebrities but as I kept on reading, I realized this applies to an everyday life person who is striving to deepen their faith, find purpose and strength in the face of life’s challenges.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Terence O · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before You Climb Any Higher

I read this book one entire day after I began reading. I couldn't put it down, wanting to see what the next chapter would say about the depth and height of the climb Jonathan was taking for his musical career as the gifted and talented artist he is. It then appeared to me, he's struggling within himself, the emotional part of his story, and then the Imposter Syndrome acknowledgment. This book's transparency shows the sincerity of Jonathan McReynolds like you've never known. Keep soaring and making great songs. You're good!

[Rodrick Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I really appreciated this new perspective on climbing into the goals. The way he transitioned from the opening act to the headliner was absolutely incredible because it showed that if done right one can assess higher.

My favorite chapter was the one with his mom because my mom be talking a lot too. Chapter 2 made me cry because it describes my journey right now but because I know how to climb the mountain differently!

[Lee Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. I loved Johnathan as an artist but I got to understand and respect him more. This was a good reminder of who we are as Christians, Children of God. Above anything else in this world we can try to put our identity in, We are Children of God. So no matter what happens, that truth will never change. It brought me a lot of comfort being reminded of that.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This this was just the book I needed! I’ve constantly been in an never ending cycle of achieving more. Jonathan did a wonderful job of breaking down the mountain mindset with his vulnerability. I’m grateful for the advice given and tokens of encouragement to just be a child of God. Such a good read!!

[Jessica Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

McReynolds brings you alongside his journey and imparts wisdom that will help you as well. It was a well written book and easy to follow along. You will gain spiritual knowledge as well as you read this.

[Ida Wilcox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Excellent book.

Get off the mountain and get into the valley. That's where God resides.

Love it. God is where you are humble.

Excellent read and will listen(audible book) to it again.