12 Steps Closer to Christ

by Toni Sorenson

Let’s not beat around the bush. Life is one great big wonderful but terrifying adventure. It can be as brutal as it is beautiful. There are no do-overs. We get a single shot to make it home. And guess what? We all wander and find ourselves lost from time to time. Enter our Savior—the One whose love and power to heal and example to guide is so magnificent that our frail human minds can’t begin to comprehend. We are not alone. Knowing this makes the journey not only possible, but enjoyable. This book is about Christ’s love for each of us. It is about His mercy and the infinite power of His grace. It is a manual on activating the Atonement. Within its pages you will be reminded that Christ is there for us, in good times and bad, and if we know how to follow Him, how to walk in His footsteps, then the road home doesn’t seem quite so treacherous or impossible to scale. You will also learn, step by step, how to draw closer to Him and how to walk your journey by His side. And in this book, you will learn again that Christ is there for you. For you personally. Waiting to walk the journey home with you. Hoping to hear you call His holy name. Hoping that you will recognize His voice when He calls your name and begs, “Come follow me.”

“Closer to Christ is a masterful and powerful approach to spiritual recovery. The truths are solid, the doctrine tested, and the plan outlined in a way that made me devour the book and then share it with as many people as possible. Anyone who wants to let go of the past, to build a bright future, and to hold fast to Christ can benefit immensely from this book.” —Dr. Brian Rodgers

Genres: Lds, Religion, Inspirational, Nonfiction

176 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2015

Reviews

[Kaitlin Lillywhite · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though based on addiction recovery principles, this was possibly the best religious commentary I've read. It was the perfect fusion of theology, personal and public anecdotes, and implementations.

[Em Mellor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very much enjoyed this book. I think the first step helps us see no matter what your struggle is you need God to get through the hard and steps 2-12 to figure out the atonement.

[Edy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I try to read religious material on Sundays in an attempt to make that day more spiritual and special. I selected this book and began listening to it in July because of its title. Because I had read another title before completing this, I decided to restart the book today. It is a short work, so I was able to complete it in one day.

Becoming closer to Christ is a personal goal. The title fit that goal. The beginning of the book indicated that the author used the 12-Step program of Alcoholics Anonymous as the framework of this book. The twelve chapters outline how to become closer to Christ using a 12-step program, is centered on Christ's love for each of us, and describes how Atonement impacts all aspects of life. One enjoyable aspect of the book is that Sorenson uses vignettes, many from her own life, to illustrate the points she is making. It is a book that deserves rereading.

Sorenson's writing is delightful.

[MykeWeber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read and studied the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book, as well as He Did Deliver Me From Bondage by Colleen Harrison, both of which changed my life, I rejoiced at Toni Sorensen Brown’s treatment of the same subject. The Principles are true and have blessed millions of lives. It is such a joy to have those principles reinforced by yet another clarion voice! It is clear that the author has walked the walk and loves to help others along in their own journey.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

1. Seek Him
We are here not to find our own way, but to find The Way.
Seek His presence in our lives.
Bet open to the Spirit.
He will come to you if you seek Him.

I absolutely loved this book. Loved. It.
Now to read it again and work the steps :)

[Josh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall I felt that this was a fanstastic book! Adapting the 12 step program for personal spuritual growth. We all need that little boost to bring us closer to our savior.

There were, admittedly, a few things I did not completely agree with. For one: the notion that one will be cured of depression through obedience to the Gospel. As a person who suffers from depression I know that not all depression is curable.

There were a few other things that seemed a little uninformed. I think with any book of this type there are bound to be a few things that aren't agreeable with the reader.

If you're looking for some new tools for spiritual growth this is a great resource.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really interesting concept for a book. This counselor takes the 12 steps of AA and uses them as a way to give up our flaws and to get closer to Christ. There is some really interesting angles she had. This is a book I'd want to read again knowing when it's about, then reading again with the full perspective. I'd really recommend this book it's good

[Nisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the personal stories in this book and I adored relating coming closer to Christ through the twelve step program. Their were some very minor points with which I disagreed, but overall, this is a great book and I’d recommend to anyone who wishes to be closer to their Savior.

[Krystle · Rating 4 out of 5]

The last couple of chapters were really beautiful. I didn't realize this was based on the AA 12 steps when I first started reading but I found profound thoughts. By the end of the book I felt hopeful with strategies to try to deepen my relationship with the Savior.

[J Kir · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed it.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really really lovely. The book follows the 12 step addiction recovery model but changes it to reflect developing a deeper relationship with Christ.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to admit I more skimmed than read this--I have to go buy a copy so I can really work the steps she talks about. So much good information about how to apply the Savior's atonement to our lives!

[Jessica Withers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped me to learn things about myself that I didn't know and have tried to hide. It has helped me to feel the Savior's love in a whole new way. It has helped me to understand and apply the atonement more fully in my life. Absolutely love it and recommend it!

[Amber Ard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book takes a very interesting look at the 12 steps of alcoholics anonymous and uses them to show ways to come closer to Christ. It was a very spiritually uplifting book and I took some great advice away from it.