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Flourish: How the Love of Christ Frees Us from Self-Focus
What Keeps Us from Flourishing?
We all long to live out our faith with daily joy, but so often that joy eludes us. Why is that? More often than we realize, it's because we've absorbed messages that curve us in on ourselves. These messages have even crept into the church, disguised as truth. It's time we learn to discern teaching that's toxic from that which is true and pure.
Flourish equips us with tools to identify the lies that come at us about where to find real life. As we dig deep into what God says in his Word, we will learn to discern the worldly influences that threaten to warp our understanding of what it really means to be a Christian, and emerge with a faith that flourishes - full of the abundant life Jesus promise
We all long to live out our faith with daily joy, but so often that joy eludes us. Why is that? More often than we realize, it's because we've absorbed messages that curve us in on ourselves. These messages have even crept into the church, disguised as truth. It's time we learn to discern teaching that's toxic from that which is true and pure.
Flourish equips us with tools to identify the lies that come at us about where to find real life. As we dig deep into what God says in his Word, we will learn to discern the worldly influences that threaten to warp our understanding of what it really means to be a Christian, and emerge with a faith that flourishes - full of the abundant life Jesus promise
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First published January 1, 2019
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About the author
Lydia Brownback
51 books128 followersLydia Brownback (MAR, Westminster Theological Seminary) serves as a senior editor at Crossway in Wheaton, Illinois, and an author and speaker at women’s conferences around the world. Lydia previously served as writer in residence for Alistair Begg and as producer of the Bible Study Hour radio program with James Montgomery Boice.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
April 11, 2019
Christian women seem to love advice. We write it, share it, put it in pretty fonts on beautiful backdrops, set it to music. Most importantly, we buy it. Books marketed to women often invite to take better care of ourselves or better understand ourselves. We are convinced we can solve our own problems if we only “stop apologizing” or follow other maxims of inspiration.
But the gospel is not a message of self-help. In Flourish, Lydia Brownback reaches out a hand to lift our chins and raise our eyes to Christ instead of dwelling on ourselves.
Brownback reminds us that the solutions to our deepest needs are not going to come from within. In fact, each of the six chapters of her book identifies a way in which we can be trapped in self-centeredness. In clear, direct language Brownback calls out misleading advice, often full of biblical references, that fails to offer women the full hope of the gospel because it convinces women that the solution to their problem is something inside themselves. Brownback explains subtle distinctions, helping women to see that discipleship is NOT a process of self-improvement. She reminds women that “We haven’t been saved in order to maximize our personal potential and become better versions of ourselves.” Occasionally, she quotes other authors who have woven together worldly messages of self-improvement with scriptural references but she always does so in a spirit of loving discernment. I was grateful for the ways in which she untangled the gospel from the “moral therapeutic deism” that has become so prevalent.
In her chapter on freedom from self-analysis, she turns our eyes to Christ because “a life curved inward, analyzing and evaluating every mood change and desire, is a stunted, joyless life.” Brownback’s reminders are as urgent as they are kind. In each chapter, she distinguishes between the gospel and the subtle messages of self-consciousness, self-improvement, self-analysis, self-indulgence, self-condemnation, and self-victimization. Brownback knows that “when our goals begin and end with ourselves, frustration and discouragement are sure to set in, and we’re likely to wind up looking for relief in some other way–a new method or program or book or teaching… When we’ve reached this point, we’ve made ourselves vulnerable to a lot of unbiblical teaching.”
Women, let us be discerning readers who can recognize poor substitutes for the gospel. From the earliest days of the church until now, there have always been “people who smooth-talk themselves into the homes of unstable and needy women and take advantage of them; women who, depressed by their sinfulness, take up with every new religious fad that calls itself ‘truth.’ They get exploited every time and never really learn” (2 Timothy 3:6-7Open in Logos Bible Software (if available), The Message). Don’t be left hopeless by another book that offers self-help in place of Christ. Let Brownback refresh you with the joy of the gospel. I don’t keep every book I review, but this one has found a place on my shelf because it is a book I know I will return to again.
But the gospel is not a message of self-help. In Flourish, Lydia Brownback reaches out a hand to lift our chins and raise our eyes to Christ instead of dwelling on ourselves.
Brownback reminds us that the solutions to our deepest needs are not going to come from within. In fact, each of the six chapters of her book identifies a way in which we can be trapped in self-centeredness. In clear, direct language Brownback calls out misleading advice, often full of biblical references, that fails to offer women the full hope of the gospel because it convinces women that the solution to their problem is something inside themselves. Brownback explains subtle distinctions, helping women to see that discipleship is NOT a process of self-improvement. She reminds women that “We haven’t been saved in order to maximize our personal potential and become better versions of ourselves.” Occasionally, she quotes other authors who have woven together worldly messages of self-improvement with scriptural references but she always does so in a spirit of loving discernment. I was grateful for the ways in which she untangled the gospel from the “moral therapeutic deism” that has become so prevalent.
In her chapter on freedom from self-analysis, she turns our eyes to Christ because “a life curved inward, analyzing and evaluating every mood change and desire, is a stunted, joyless life.” Brownback’s reminders are as urgent as they are kind. In each chapter, she distinguishes between the gospel and the subtle messages of self-consciousness, self-improvement, self-analysis, self-indulgence, self-condemnation, and self-victimization. Brownback knows that “when our goals begin and end with ourselves, frustration and discouragement are sure to set in, and we’re likely to wind up looking for relief in some other way–a new method or program or book or teaching… When we’ve reached this point, we’ve made ourselves vulnerable to a lot of unbiblical teaching.”
Women, let us be discerning readers who can recognize poor substitutes for the gospel. From the earliest days of the church until now, there have always been “people who smooth-talk themselves into the homes of unstable and needy women and take advantage of them; women who, depressed by their sinfulness, take up with every new religious fad that calls itself ‘truth.’ They get exploited every time and never really learn” (2 Timothy 3:6-7Open in Logos Bible Software (if available), The Message). Don’t be left hopeless by another book that offers self-help in place of Christ. Let Brownback refresh you with the joy of the gospel. I don’t keep every book I review, but this one has found a place on my shelf because it is a book I know I will return to again.
January 11, 2019
It has been a while since a book has impacted me as much as this one has. Brownback takes much of the self centered nature of what is popular in Christian culture today and sets us straight. In a time when self (self care, self improvement, self indulgence) is the focus, Brownback takes us back to the gospel.
Her teaching penetrates to the very heart of why we Christians do what we do. Are we pursuing personal change to enrich our walk with Christ or are we just dissatisfied with ourselves? (266/1142) Are we living for our own pleasures or for the pleasure of God's presence? (464/1142) Are we focusing on what makes us happy or what glorifies God? We cannot live for earthbound appetites and live for Christ. (536/1142)
Brownback calls us to leave behind the self improvement trap (the old self is dead, after all) and move to Christ centered goals and priorities. She reminds us of Col. 3:1-4 and encourages us to first seek things above, making God's priorities our priorities, and set our minds on Christ and life in God's kingdom.
This book has really made an impression on me. I was struck by her calling us away from a self centered culture – even within Christianity. We are not here to maximize our personal potential but to become more Christlike and kingdom focused. (576/1142)
I highly recommend this book. Brownback has included a six week study guide with daily questions for reflection. This would be a great book for a women's study but would work very well for individual use too.
If you read this book, I think you will be challenged to rethink your life and your focus. I was.
Food for thought: “...happiness comes not from being thought well of but by thinking less of ourselves altogether.” (133/1142)
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Her teaching penetrates to the very heart of why we Christians do what we do. Are we pursuing personal change to enrich our walk with Christ or are we just dissatisfied with ourselves? (266/1142) Are we living for our own pleasures or for the pleasure of God's presence? (464/1142) Are we focusing on what makes us happy or what glorifies God? We cannot live for earthbound appetites and live for Christ. (536/1142)
Brownback calls us to leave behind the self improvement trap (the old self is dead, after all) and move to Christ centered goals and priorities. She reminds us of Col. 3:1-4 and encourages us to first seek things above, making God's priorities our priorities, and set our minds on Christ and life in God's kingdom.
This book has really made an impression on me. I was struck by her calling us away from a self centered culture – even within Christianity. We are not here to maximize our personal potential but to become more Christlike and kingdom focused. (576/1142)
I highly recommend this book. Brownback has included a six week study guide with daily questions for reflection. This would be a great book for a women's study but would work very well for individual use too.
If you read this book, I think you will be challenged to rethink your life and your focus. I was.
Food for thought: “...happiness comes not from being thought well of but by thinking less of ourselves altogether.” (133/1142)
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
April 7, 2020
There’s a lot to unpack here for such a short book. I’m looking forward to doing the 30-day study guide to really soak in all of what Brownback is saying!
I appreciate how Brownback clearly reveres God. Her words can sound harsh, but with all the prosperity gospel teaching in a lot of non-denominational churches, I think her message is timely and important. I was definitely feeling some conviction during certain chapters!
Would recommend for a book that’s guaranteed to make you think & dive deeper into scripture.
I appreciate how Brownback clearly reveres God. Her words can sound harsh, but with all the prosperity gospel teaching in a lot of non-denominational churches, I think her message is timely and important. I was definitely feeling some conviction during certain chapters!
Would recommend for a book that’s guaranteed to make you think & dive deeper into scripture.
February 14, 2025
Puh, mit diesem Buch hab ich es mir wirklich sehr schwer getan. Eine Frau aus unserer Gemeinde hat mich gebeten es zu lesen, weil sie meine Meinung dazu haben wollte. Auf Deutsch heißt es: „Blüh auf“
Einige gute Gedanken dabei, aber undifferenziert, nicht ordentlich ausgeführt und argumentiert. Soooo viele Aspekte wurden, meiner Meinung nach, nicht berücksichtigt. Auf 100 Seiten hat die Autorin so viele verschiedene Themen behandelt, das es einen auch nicht wundern sollte. Sie redet auch so lange über das Problem und die Lösung liegt dann in einem Mini-Abschnitt der einem überhaupt keine Anwendung gibt (Du musst einfach deine Identität in Christus verstehen - Ja aber wie?). Traumata werden aufgegriffen im Kapitel über „werde frei aus selbstgewählter Opfermentalität“, die Lösung: schaue auf Christus, Mache dir bewusst wie schlimm Sünde ist und was Jesus erlitten hat. Heilung wird in keinem Wort erwähnt, das es in Ordnung ist sich Hilfe zu suchen und Dinge aufzuarbeiten,..
also zusammenfassend, die Autorin sagt nicht unbedingt falsche Dinge, aber einfach nicht ausreichend, sehr einseitig behandelt, sehr unbalanciert. Würd ich keinem empfehlen, da hab ich zu dem Thema schon um einiges bessere Bücher gelesen.
Einige gute Gedanken dabei, aber undifferenziert, nicht ordentlich ausgeführt und argumentiert. Soooo viele Aspekte wurden, meiner Meinung nach, nicht berücksichtigt. Auf 100 Seiten hat die Autorin so viele verschiedene Themen behandelt, das es einen auch nicht wundern sollte. Sie redet auch so lange über das Problem und die Lösung liegt dann in einem Mini-Abschnitt der einem überhaupt keine Anwendung gibt (Du musst einfach deine Identität in Christus verstehen - Ja aber wie?). Traumata werden aufgegriffen im Kapitel über „werde frei aus selbstgewählter Opfermentalität“, die Lösung: schaue auf Christus, Mache dir bewusst wie schlimm Sünde ist und was Jesus erlitten hat. Heilung wird in keinem Wort erwähnt, das es in Ordnung ist sich Hilfe zu suchen und Dinge aufzuarbeiten,..
also zusammenfassend, die Autorin sagt nicht unbedingt falsche Dinge, aber einfach nicht ausreichend, sehr einseitig behandelt, sehr unbalanciert. Würd ich keinem empfehlen, da hab ich zu dem Thema schon um einiges bessere Bücher gelesen.
February 9, 2019
*This is an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley. No review, positive or otherwise, was required—all opinions are my own.*
With so much focus on self-care of late, the timing of this book couldn't be better. This short book was so helpful in showing areas where we are not focusing on the right things. Self-improvement is an easy trap for us to fall into. I found it challenging and thought-provoking.
There is also a 6-week study guide in the back that can be used for a group setting, as well as an individual.
Quotes:
"Improving ourselves is not the sacrifice the Lord calls us to."
"The way out of the bondage of self-improvement is to recognize that in Christ, there is none of that old self left to improve. We can simply let go of all that."
"Any teaching that sets self-love as the highest good is false teaching, and we are susceptible to it because it appeals to that deep yearning for affirmation we feel at our very core. That’s why it hooks us."
Introduction
1. Set Free from Self-Consciousness
2. Set Free from Self-Improvement
3. Set Free from Self-Analysis
4. Set Free from Self-Indulgence
5. Set Free from Self-Condemnation
6. Set Free from Self-Victimization
Cultivate: A Thirty-Day Study Guide
With so much focus on self-care of late, the timing of this book couldn't be better. This short book was so helpful in showing areas where we are not focusing on the right things. Self-improvement is an easy trap for us to fall into. I found it challenging and thought-provoking.
There is also a 6-week study guide in the back that can be used for a group setting, as well as an individual.
Quotes:
"Improving ourselves is not the sacrifice the Lord calls us to."
"The way out of the bondage of self-improvement is to recognize that in Christ, there is none of that old self left to improve. We can simply let go of all that."
"Any teaching that sets self-love as the highest good is false teaching, and we are susceptible to it because it appeals to that deep yearning for affirmation we feel at our very core. That’s why it hooks us."
Introduction
1. Set Free from Self-Consciousness
2. Set Free from Self-Improvement
3. Set Free from Self-Analysis
4. Set Free from Self-Indulgence
5. Set Free from Self-Condemnation
6. Set Free from Self-Victimization
Cultivate: A Thirty-Day Study Guide
October 14, 2024
Actual rating probably more like 3.5 🌟
This is a short and easy read.
Brownback writes about how a Christian's focus should be on Christ, how our identity should be rooted in Christ, and NOT self.
The book got off to a bit of a rocky start, in my opinion, but really picked up about 1/4 to a 1/3 of the way through. In the beginning, she kept using the phrase "self-conscious," and I think the words "vanity" or "pride" would have been more applicable to the point she was trying to make. Maybe I'm getting too hung up on that, but it did annoy me.
The rest of the book was interesting, and Brownback made a ton of great points. She tackled victim mentality, self care culture, and other topics that are prevalent in the world today, and she did a good job analyzing those topics from a scriptural standpoint.
The main point of the book: to truly flourish, you must stop looking to yourself and instead look to Christ.
Favorite quote:
"The source of rest and refreshment depicted in scripture is focusing on God and celebrating Him in the company of His people."
This is a short and easy read.
Brownback writes about how a Christian's focus should be on Christ, how our identity should be rooted in Christ, and NOT self.
The book got off to a bit of a rocky start, in my opinion, but really picked up about 1/4 to a 1/3 of the way through. In the beginning, she kept using the phrase "self-conscious," and I think the words "vanity" or "pride" would have been more applicable to the point she was trying to make. Maybe I'm getting too hung up on that, but it did annoy me.
The rest of the book was interesting, and Brownback made a ton of great points. She tackled victim mentality, self care culture, and other topics that are prevalent in the world today, and she did a good job analyzing those topics from a scriptural standpoint.
The main point of the book: to truly flourish, you must stop looking to yourself and instead look to Christ.
Favorite quote:
"The source of rest and refreshment depicted in scripture is focusing on God and celebrating Him in the company of His people."
February 19, 2020
Lydia Brownback challenged mainstream secular culture, mainstream Christian popular culture and my own life in this slim consideration of self-focus. In six packed chapters, she explores our culture’s obsession for self and encourages us to set our minds on self-forgetfulness to combat victimization, consciousness, indulgence, analysis, improvement, etc. There’s something here for every woman today.
Brownback takes issue with many of the popular Christian bloggers and speakers in media, as well as much of our mainstream culture that seeks to find fulfillment in filling self. She points to self-focus as the main cause of so much struggle for women today. I was challenged in so many places and have much to consider.
Her remedy for this self-focus was clear and comforting: Jesus and the gospel. Her use of scripture (especially in the 30 day Bible study in the back of the book) was accurate, saturating and fulfilling. I have much to chew on.
Brownback takes issue with many of the popular Christian bloggers and speakers in media, as well as much of our mainstream culture that seeks to find fulfillment in filling self. She points to self-focus as the main cause of so much struggle for women today. I was challenged in so many places and have much to consider.
Her remedy for this self-focus was clear and comforting: Jesus and the gospel. Her use of scripture (especially in the 30 day Bible study in the back of the book) was accurate, saturating and fulfilling. I have much to chew on.
April 19, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
Introduction and Chapter 1 were “meh”. Totally disagree with her application of 2 Tim. 3:1 as the reason why “this era will be categorized by trouble” (I think she has a misplaced understanding of “last days”) and just genuinely didn’t see the need for a whole section dedicated to the scrutiny of Christian workout classes in the first chapter.
Nevertheless, I pushed through and by the 2nd chapter I was so encouraged I read chapters 2 & 3 THREE TIMES before moving on.
Brownback hits it right on the head in her analysis of the sin of self-improvement, self-indulgence, self-condemnation, self-victimization & unbiblical self-analysis.
I was left at the end of each chapter noticing ways that I myself engage or am tempted in the idolatry of self & then totally amazed, thankful & equipped by the gospel to abandon the imprisonment of self to freedom in Christ. In all, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Introduction and Chapter 1 were “meh”. Totally disagree with her application of 2 Tim. 3:1 as the reason why “this era will be categorized by trouble” (I think she has a misplaced understanding of “last days”) and just genuinely didn’t see the need for a whole section dedicated to the scrutiny of Christian workout classes in the first chapter.
Nevertheless, I pushed through and by the 2nd chapter I was so encouraged I read chapters 2 & 3 THREE TIMES before moving on.
Brownback hits it right on the head in her analysis of the sin of self-improvement, self-indulgence, self-condemnation, self-victimization & unbiblical self-analysis.
I was left at the end of each chapter noticing ways that I myself engage or am tempted in the idolatry of self & then totally amazed, thankful & equipped by the gospel to abandon the imprisonment of self to freedom in Christ. In all, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
November 27, 2019
Eh. I skimmed a lot of this because it just wasn't what I needed to read at this point in my life. I do appreciate how the author refutes a lot of the contemporary Christian falsehoods that are so prevalent.
June 6, 2025
The answer is Christ. Brownback leads us through six self-focus problems including: self-consciousness, self-improvement, self-analysis, self-indulgence, self-condemnation, and self-victimization. She is wonderful at offering the best advice there is, and that is the Word of God. She doesn’t suggest 12 step programs or getting outside in nature or volunteering. She suggests Christ. I so appreciate the abundance of Scripture in this book.
March 15, 2024
Though occasionally slightly simplistic in its analysis of humanity’s tendency towards self-focus, and I don’t agree with Lydia on everything, this book was nonetheless brilliant at reorienting my heart outwards and upwards. Favourite chapters: Freedom From Self-Improvement, Freedom From Self-Condemnation. Title could use some work.
April 27, 2020
I could give a decent review until the last chapter. While there were some things I disagreed with in the first 5 chapters there was still some value of what she was writing. But chapter 6 was completely off, she talks about how we should leave our trauma behind and not go to counseling and deal with it, that it’s over and we should move on. This is so damaging. As someone who has been raped, the past can shape the future in incredibly negative ways unless properly processed through counseling. It affects us in ways we don’t even realize and will continue to do so until we process it in a healthy way, then we can move forward and walk in the freedom Christ has given us. Because of this last chapter I highly discourage anyone from reading this, especially if you have gone through a traumatic situation
March 14, 2023
I had originally skipped this book because of the corny title. Flourish? Sounds like the typical touchy feely content that too often make up books for women. My curiosity got the best of me and I read it. I was pleasantly surprised. This is not your typical women’s book. This may be the anti-touchy feely book. The author continually points her reader to scripture, discourages a victim mentality, and encourages a truly biblical perspective on things. It wasn’t long, or super in-depth, but it was a refreshing reminder that our life is not to be lived for ourself, but for Christ.
June 26, 2023
Some Sundays, the sermon smiteth thee upon the right cheek, then the afternoon reading smiteth thee upon the other also. 😆
Reader was good.
Reader was good.
March 15, 2023
Great book that is for today! The author calls sin what it is rather than the excuses we often give to our sins. She debunks our feelings and rationale behind our excuses and does so in a way that makes repentance a necessary gift for the Lord. Grace sure is sweet when it is first drenched with confession and repentance.
September 11, 2023
This short and sweet book was perfect for sabbath reading. The author addresses many sins common to women and calls out worldly perspectives that we are so easily entangled with. The second half of the book was the most convicting for me, especially the chapter on self-indulgence.
December 22, 2019
I loved this book! It was very needed and helpful! Highly recommend!
5/5 🌟
5/5 🌟
July 5, 2024
Less than 100 pages & I learned so much that will change my walk with Christ. Highly recommend!
March 21, 2023
Read this book! It was so convicting, so helpful and one of the best I’ve read this year!
July 16, 2024
A small book with a handful of wise amazing truths and advises on how to become small so that you gave space so Lord Jesus grows bigger in your heart.
September 26, 2021
Convicting and quick! Look forward to more
brownback!
brownback!
November 7, 2019
I enjoyed the majority of the book. There were some fantastic points in the first two chapters. The last chapter on self-victimization seemed a bit uncharitable at times. In a good effort to point to the hope of the gospel, Lydia came off a bit harsh towards people who have suffered greatly at the hands of others. Because of that last chapter, I wouldn’t recommend this book for everyone.
January 31, 2022
I was pleasantly surprised at how good this was, for such a short book, and from an author that I only recognized once I looked up her other books.
She calls out many sins women can struggle with, many that I consistently struggle with. She encourages us to lean on Christ for all things, and not our situations, marriages, or friends. Free on Hoopla, and less than 3hrs/200pgs. Highly recommend.
She calls out many sins women can struggle with, many that I consistently struggle with. She encourages us to lean on Christ for all things, and not our situations, marriages, or friends. Free on Hoopla, and less than 3hrs/200pgs. Highly recommend.
July 7, 2019
This is not a book I would recommend. While it brought me together with some ladies for great conversation, I found myself often disagreeing with some of the perspectives.
November 15, 2022
So good! She does not mince her words. It’s all in all really really good. A quick read too!
August 30, 2025
There’s a lot of truth to be found here and plenty of personal conviction that I found working through this. Brownback may be writing to a more specific audience that I and my Small Group didn’t feel fully a part of, but biblical truth stays the same, even if we felt the delivery was often harsh.
Through discussion, we felt that Flourish would be even better if it shifted from the podium-led lecture that it often felt like to more of a gracious, hopeful conversation. 50-80 more pages of application and greater honesty from Brownback could help deliver her message more powerfully. When addressing the sin struggles of what may lead us to twist our shame and trauma into self-centeredness, it’s difficult to point out the plank in others’ eyes but leave little shepherding on how to pull it out. Brownback’s direction to turn to the gospel and remind ourselves of it is essential, but it often felt like we just skimmed the surface of the good news before moving onto the next sin struggle, left in a bit of a cycle of conviction deep-dives and shallow gospel exploration. Perhaps Brownback felt a concise book of challenges would lead readers elsewhere for more of the gospel. Perhaps we want too much of a one-stop shop in every Christian book.
A point that a few women made during our last discussion was very insightful: how much more would we feel willing to listen to Brownback if she shared some of her own struggles within the categories of self-focus she unpacks. There were many stories of other women in her life, but some readers struggled to believe the validity of Brownback’s perspective of their struggles.
I am without a doubt better off having read Flourish and been challenged to (guided by the Spirit) search my own heart and bring those findings to Christ, we have Brownback’s work to thank for! It’s just that I, as well as those that I read this book with, feared for the hearts and minds of those who 1) may be deeply struggling with trauma and mental health issues, in need of Christ’s gentleness as well as conviction and/or 2) may not have gospel community to discuss these topics with.
Through discussion, we felt that Flourish would be even better if it shifted from the podium-led lecture that it often felt like to more of a gracious, hopeful conversation. 50-80 more pages of application and greater honesty from Brownback could help deliver her message more powerfully. When addressing the sin struggles of what may lead us to twist our shame and trauma into self-centeredness, it’s difficult to point out the plank in others’ eyes but leave little shepherding on how to pull it out. Brownback’s direction to turn to the gospel and remind ourselves of it is essential, but it often felt like we just skimmed the surface of the good news before moving onto the next sin struggle, left in a bit of a cycle of conviction deep-dives and shallow gospel exploration. Perhaps Brownback felt a concise book of challenges would lead readers elsewhere for more of the gospel. Perhaps we want too much of a one-stop shop in every Christian book.
A point that a few women made during our last discussion was very insightful: how much more would we feel willing to listen to Brownback if she shared some of her own struggles within the categories of self-focus she unpacks. There were many stories of other women in her life, but some readers struggled to believe the validity of Brownback’s perspective of their struggles.
I am without a doubt better off having read Flourish and been challenged to (guided by the Spirit) search my own heart and bring those findings to Christ, we have Brownback’s work to thank for! It’s just that I, as well as those that I read this book with, feared for the hearts and minds of those who 1) may be deeply struggling with trauma and mental health issues, in need of Christ’s gentleness as well as conviction and/or 2) may not have gospel community to discuss these topics with.
July 25, 2025
This is an incredible book for all women and I would suggest moving this book to the top of your TBR list.
Lydia Brownback winsomely and clearly corrects wrong theology that is ever-prevalent in women’s ministries today while showing how Jesus offers a better way of freedom. She gently (but seriously) walks the reader through 6 self-centered, pride-laden sin tendencies toward which us women can easily find ourselves drifting: self-consciousness, self-improvement, self-analysis, self-indulgence, self-condemnation, and self-victimization. The reader will probably resonate with some chapter more than others, but all are incredibly helpful for the ever changing seasons that a woman will walk through in her life.
Brownback presents the freedom found in the gospel of Jesus Christ so simply and she does a great job of showing how Jesus offers a better alternative than the 6 inwardly focused areas. Our self-focus is a “self-made prison” (17).
Brownback sounds like your older mentor reminding you that Jesus is better; or maybe she’s your favorite aunt that isn’t afraid to step on your toes and make you cry a bit, but you know she’s right to do it; she sounds like the faithful saint in your church that you want to be just like one day because her trust in Jesus makes you believe in him all the more. I’ll be reading this book again just because I know my propensity to turn inward and I will once again need a loving kick in the pants.
This book, unlike many, has a 30-day study guide that goes along with the chapters—6 chapters with 5 days of scripture, reflection questions, and applications to consider. It would make a wonderful book club book. This book will certainly accomplish its aim—to shift the readers’ eyes onto Jesus and off of the self.
Lydia Brownback winsomely and clearly corrects wrong theology that is ever-prevalent in women’s ministries today while showing how Jesus offers a better way of freedom. She gently (but seriously) walks the reader through 6 self-centered, pride-laden sin tendencies toward which us women can easily find ourselves drifting: self-consciousness, self-improvement, self-analysis, self-indulgence, self-condemnation, and self-victimization. The reader will probably resonate with some chapter more than others, but all are incredibly helpful for the ever changing seasons that a woman will walk through in her life.
Brownback presents the freedom found in the gospel of Jesus Christ so simply and she does a great job of showing how Jesus offers a better alternative than the 6 inwardly focused areas. Our self-focus is a “self-made prison” (17).
Brownback sounds like your older mentor reminding you that Jesus is better; or maybe she’s your favorite aunt that isn’t afraid to step on your toes and make you cry a bit, but you know she’s right to do it; she sounds like the faithful saint in your church that you want to be just like one day because her trust in Jesus makes you believe in him all the more. I’ll be reading this book again just because I know my propensity to turn inward and I will once again need a loving kick in the pants.
This book, unlike many, has a 30-day study guide that goes along with the chapters—6 chapters with 5 days of scripture, reflection questions, and applications to consider. It would make a wonderful book club book. This book will certainly accomplish its aim—to shift the readers’ eyes onto Jesus and off of the self.
March 28, 2019
We all want to get closer to Jesus and we all long for lives that are full of joy. However, many things stand in the way. These may include self-consciousness, self-help attitudes, self-indulgence, self-analysis, self-condemnation or self-victimization. While these can range widely in their guises, what all these obstacles to joy have in common are an undue and unhealthy focus on ourselves. When we focus on ourselves, we often find that we have crowded Christ either out of our lives or onto the margins of our lives. We find ourselves the star of our life, and we have no room for worship of anyone but self.
Brownback helps to gently correct these erroneous views, shows how sometimes even Christian subculture helps to encourage these views, and allows us to put a right focus on Christ instead of ourselves. This is the most helpful book that I have read in a long time, as I find that I often struggle with several of the self-focused habits that Brownback outlines. This is an early contender for my best reads of the year, and I have thought about going back through the book with the 30-day guide and bible study questions that Brownback includes after the main text. It remains to be seen whether I'll do that or not, but this is one that I could find myself re-reading on a fairly frequent basis, as I truly need some lenses to help me see beyond myself and to the glory that is Christ. (book 57 of 2019)
Brownback helps to gently correct these erroneous views, shows how sometimes even Christian subculture helps to encourage these views, and allows us to put a right focus on Christ instead of ourselves. This is the most helpful book that I have read in a long time, as I find that I often struggle with several of the self-focused habits that Brownback outlines. This is an early contender for my best reads of the year, and I have thought about going back through the book with the 30-day guide and bible study questions that Brownback includes after the main text. It remains to be seen whether I'll do that or not, but this is one that I could find myself re-reading on a fairly frequent basis, as I truly need some lenses to help me see beyond myself and to the glory that is Christ. (book 57 of 2019)
June 19, 2021
5 stars for theology, which was strong and on-point.
This was a startlingly short book, leaving me wanting much more. The last section of the book is a 30-day study guide, and I suppose that would have fulfilled my desire to dig deeper into the content provided in the body of the book itself. There were a couple of places in this book that contained masterfully stated pearls of Biblical wisdom. For example: "We haven't been saved in order to maximize our personal potential and become better versions of ourselves. If that's what we're after, no wonder we're frustrated, angry, and discouraged in the fight. Being united to Christ the vine doesn't improve our SELF - it transforms that self to act and look and think like Him." The author expertly and simply explains why we need FREEDOM from ourselves. I also particularly enjoyed her little smackdown of the victimization culture we live in, and how identifying as a victim is just not Biblical. Is trauma real? Yes. Are people victimized every day, all around the world? Also yes. But Christians are not called to be victims. Self-identity wrapped up in victimhood only leads to unhappiness and bitterness. The author says it best here: "We also stay stuck in a victim identity if we believe the counsel that peace and a fruitful life will elude us apart from a thorough sifting through past pain. Such counsel goes against the grain of Scripture, which, as we've noted, directs our focus forward rather than back." She's so right! Move forward, never back. She goes on to say this: "Grasping the magnitude of sin - both ours and others' - is vital to getting unstuck from past trauma and flourishing as disciples." I love this! Sin is really the problem that plagues us all - the disease that we are all dying from, until Christ literally makes us a new creation (2 Cor. 5:17). We have an ever-forward trajectory. This is great news. We don't need to live in the past anymore. The old has gone, the new has come.
Overall, this is a great springboard for discussion. It would make a wonderful Bible study book. I wish I had a group to read this with, because it is so incredibly relevant to the times we live in. Worth the read, even if it was super short!
This was a startlingly short book, leaving me wanting much more. The last section of the book is a 30-day study guide, and I suppose that would have fulfilled my desire to dig deeper into the content provided in the body of the book itself. There were a couple of places in this book that contained masterfully stated pearls of Biblical wisdom. For example: "We haven't been saved in order to maximize our personal potential and become better versions of ourselves. If that's what we're after, no wonder we're frustrated, angry, and discouraged in the fight. Being united to Christ the vine doesn't improve our SELF - it transforms that self to act and look and think like Him." The author expertly and simply explains why we need FREEDOM from ourselves. I also particularly enjoyed her little smackdown of the victimization culture we live in, and how identifying as a victim is just not Biblical. Is trauma real? Yes. Are people victimized every day, all around the world? Also yes. But Christians are not called to be victims. Self-identity wrapped up in victimhood only leads to unhappiness and bitterness. The author says it best here: "We also stay stuck in a victim identity if we believe the counsel that peace and a fruitful life will elude us apart from a thorough sifting through past pain. Such counsel goes against the grain of Scripture, which, as we've noted, directs our focus forward rather than back." She's so right! Move forward, never back. She goes on to say this: "Grasping the magnitude of sin - both ours and others' - is vital to getting unstuck from past trauma and flourishing as disciples." I love this! Sin is really the problem that plagues us all - the disease that we are all dying from, until Christ literally makes us a new creation (2 Cor. 5:17). We have an ever-forward trajectory. This is great news. We don't need to live in the past anymore. The old has gone, the new has come.
Overall, this is a great springboard for discussion. It would make a wonderful Bible study book. I wish I had a group to read this with, because it is so incredibly relevant to the times we live in. Worth the read, even if it was super short!
June 22, 2019
"Flourish" is about how we need to focus on Christ, what He's done for us, and our new identify rather than focus on ourselves. The author examined six main areas where we might struggle, and she pointed out (often using Scripture) how a wrong focus is at the root of each problem. There's a study guide at the end of the book which provides 5 days worth of questions for each chapter--so you or a group can read a chapter, then spend the next 5 days working through the questions about what was said in that chapter or looking up verses related to that topic and answering questions about them. Overall, I'd recommend this Christ-focused book.
She talked about: Focusing your decisions around what people might think of you or your actions. Struggling to be a better person. Basing your decisions on the pursuit of constantly feeling happy. Prioritizing comfort and pleasurable experiences, especially as a way to deal with bad things in life. Not feeling forgiven (i.e. taking the place of God in declaring what is sin and what has been forgiven rather than accepting what God has said and believing that Christ's work on the cross is big enough to cover every sin). Holding on to an identity of "victim."
I received an ARC review copy of this book from the publisher through Amazon Vine.
She talked about: Focusing your decisions around what people might think of you or your actions. Struggling to be a better person. Basing your decisions on the pursuit of constantly feeling happy. Prioritizing comfort and pleasurable experiences, especially as a way to deal with bad things in life. Not feeling forgiven (i.e. taking the place of God in declaring what is sin and what has been forgiven rather than accepting what God has said and believing that Christ's work on the cross is big enough to cover every sin). Holding on to an identity of "victim."
I received an ARC review copy of this book from the publisher through Amazon Vine.
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