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You're Loved No Matter What: Freeing Your Heart from the Need to Be Perfect
As women, we tend to think that if we could only get our act together, life would be perfect. But you're not supposed to be perfect. You're supposed to be human. And humans are messy, flawed, glorious, and deeply loved.It's time to lay down those unrealistic expectations that exhaust you.It's time to embrace who you are--even the messy parts.It's time to start living fully instead of just trying not to fail.Let's do this. Together.-----------------------------How would your life be different if you truly believed you're loved just as you are? Bestselling author Holley Gerth shares how God wants to set our hearts free by revealing the lies we believe as well as the scandalous grace and acceptance offered to us instead. She helps us lay down our unrealistic expectations so we can embrace who God created us to be, pursue his purpose for our lives, and offer others the love we've been freely given.Holley Gerth is a bestselling writer, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women through her popular blog and books like You're Already Amazing, You're Made for a God-Sized Dream, You're Going to Be Okay, and more. She's also cofounder of the popular website (in)courage and a partner with DaySpring.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2015
60 people are currently reading
1608 people want to read
About the author
Holley Gerth
65 books593 followersHolley Gerth likes humans, words, and good coffee. She's also a Wall Street Journal bestselling author with over 500,000 copies sold.
Find out more about her new release, What Your Mind Needs for Anxious Moments.
Find out more about her new release, What Your Mind Needs for Anxious Moments.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 12, 2015
Every once in awhile a book comes along that you feel is written just for you. You wonder if the author has been spying on your heart as their words address issues you have been dealing with for a lifetime.
"You're Loved No Matter What" by Holley Gerth is that kind of book. It's not just written for this Tightly Wound Woman, but for all of us recovering perfectionists who struggle to meet the unrealistic expectations that we put upon ourselves and others.
The tagline for this book is "Freeing Your Heart from the Need to Be Perfect." I don't know about you, but that phrase makes me feel lighter and hopeful already.
My favorite quote was found on page 19, "I think at the root of every desire for perfection is simply this: fear. The way we battle fear as humans is through control. And being perfect is the ultimate expression of control."
"You're Loved No Matter What" is something that I am holding close, not just the book but its message, because I need to hear it so desperately. I have been striving and driving and running out of gas for far too long.
It's a new day and I want to be well. I want Jesus to teach me how to live free and to rest in His perfection and not in my frantic attempts to be "perfect" apart from Him.
If I could give a #TightlyWoundWoman Community award, this book would get it. It is a powerful tool for those who need to unwind in order to live free.
Let me know if you pick up a copy. I'd love to hear what you learn through it!
"You're Loved No Matter What" by Holley Gerth is that kind of book. It's not just written for this Tightly Wound Woman, but for all of us recovering perfectionists who struggle to meet the unrealistic expectations that we put upon ourselves and others.
The tagline for this book is "Freeing Your Heart from the Need to Be Perfect." I don't know about you, but that phrase makes me feel lighter and hopeful already.
My favorite quote was found on page 19, "I think at the root of every desire for perfection is simply this: fear. The way we battle fear as humans is through control. And being perfect is the ultimate expression of control."
"You're Loved No Matter What" is something that I am holding close, not just the book but its message, because I need to hear it so desperately. I have been striving and driving and running out of gas for far too long.
It's a new day and I want to be well. I want Jesus to teach me how to live free and to rest in His perfection and not in my frantic attempts to be "perfect" apart from Him.
If I could give a #TightlyWoundWoman Community award, this book would get it. It is a powerful tool for those who need to unwind in order to live free.
Let me know if you pick up a copy. I'd love to hear what you learn through it!
February 15, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
"You're Loved No Matter What."
Isn't that what we all want to hear? Holley Gerth shares in this book that you don't have to be perfect to be loved by God. Maybe you've heard this before, and maybe it's an entirely new concept for you. Either way, this book will affect the way you see yourself.
The biggest takeaway for me was that I can shift my perspective by listening to God's messages of love. He treasures me. I'm precious in His sight. These are things I learned in Sunday School songs, but I needed to be reminded of them. It's hard to have the faith of a child when you've grown up and learned that life is hard and people can be mean. But no matter what I face or how many mistakes I make, God loves me anyway. That simple reminder brings back my childlike faith. Makes me remember that peaceful feeling of being completely and purely loved by the Father who created me.
Do you need to be reminded that you don't have to be perfect? That you're loved no matter what?
Then "You're Loved No Matter What" by Holley Gerth is the book for you!
"You're Loved No Matter What."
Isn't that what we all want to hear? Holley Gerth shares in this book that you don't have to be perfect to be loved by God. Maybe you've heard this before, and maybe it's an entirely new concept for you. Either way, this book will affect the way you see yourself.
The biggest takeaway for me was that I can shift my perspective by listening to God's messages of love. He treasures me. I'm precious in His sight. These are things I learned in Sunday School songs, but I needed to be reminded of them. It's hard to have the faith of a child when you've grown up and learned that life is hard and people can be mean. But no matter what I face or how many mistakes I make, God loves me anyway. That simple reminder brings back my childlike faith. Makes me remember that peaceful feeling of being completely and purely loved by the Father who created me.
Do you need to be reminded that you don't have to be perfect? That you're loved no matter what?
Then "You're Loved No Matter What" by Holley Gerth is the book for you!
March 9, 2015
If I could, I would buy a copy of this book for all of my sweet friends who I know struggle with the need to be perfect. But that would be all of them, and my pockets aren’t that deep. As much as I hate this phrase everyone is throwing around…THE STRUGGLE IS REAL. Women especially feel the pull of perfection lurking around every corner. I know I do. I love the way author Holley Gerth addresses the issue in her new book, You’re Loved No Matter What.
In the first few pages Holley offers a quiz to reveal the areas of our life that suffer because of the problems that come with perfection. She simply asks the reader to mark an “x” next to each statement that applies. I was personally shocked by my number of x’s. My life is often driven by the compelling force of getting everything right.
But as Holley reveals, we were not meant to live this way! The biggest obstacle I face is guilt. She addresses the cycle of guilt in Chapter 3, Trading Guilt for Grace. In these pages, Holley encourages us to replace the lies we are believing with grace-filled truth. She mentions a lie I hold tight to. It is the I am not doing enough lie. This one really hit home with me as I was glancing at my schedule for the week. I say yes to too much to often because I want to be sure I am not selfish with my time. I end up burned out, short fused, and exhausted. Anyone else? Here is how Holley turns the lie into grace-filled truth: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. But He never asks me to do it all!”
More than just identifying a problem, Holley Gerth provides a plan. She does this by offering some practical steps. My favorite was to pick someone in your life who cares about being real and not about being perfect. Make a coffee date with that person this week. Maybe even just a few moments on the phone. All of the steps Holley suggests are easy and I think very helpful.
I review books because I love to read and book blogging is a fun way to fuel my habit. I did receive this book in exchange for an honest review from its publisher. However, I would have purchased this book anyway. I love Holley Gerth’s books because they touch the lives of everyday women in the middle of our craziness. I have not been compensated in any way, and all opinions are my own!
In the first few pages Holley offers a quiz to reveal the areas of our life that suffer because of the problems that come with perfection. She simply asks the reader to mark an “x” next to each statement that applies. I was personally shocked by my number of x’s. My life is often driven by the compelling force of getting everything right.
But as Holley reveals, we were not meant to live this way! The biggest obstacle I face is guilt. She addresses the cycle of guilt in Chapter 3, Trading Guilt for Grace. In these pages, Holley encourages us to replace the lies we are believing with grace-filled truth. She mentions a lie I hold tight to. It is the I am not doing enough lie. This one really hit home with me as I was glancing at my schedule for the week. I say yes to too much to often because I want to be sure I am not selfish with my time. I end up burned out, short fused, and exhausted. Anyone else? Here is how Holley turns the lie into grace-filled truth: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. But He never asks me to do it all!”
More than just identifying a problem, Holley Gerth provides a plan. She does this by offering some practical steps. My favorite was to pick someone in your life who cares about being real and not about being perfect. Make a coffee date with that person this week. Maybe even just a few moments on the phone. All of the steps Holley suggests are easy and I think very helpful.
I review books because I love to read and book blogging is a fun way to fuel my habit. I did receive this book in exchange for an honest review from its publisher. However, I would have purchased this book anyway. I love Holley Gerth’s books because they touch the lives of everyday women in the middle of our craziness. I have not been compensated in any way, and all opinions are my own!
January 16, 2016
This is my first time reviewing a non-fiction book, so I hope I know what I'm doing.
'You're Loved No Matter What' is a book about freeing yourself from the need to be perfect. I don't struggle with trying to be perfect that much, only a little. So, perhaps this just wasn't the book for me to read at the moment. I did enjoy most of the book, and Holly offers great words of wisdom in here as she reveals the struggle that she has had with perfection in the past and ways you can overcome it.
What is perfection, exactly? Well, Holly gives some examples in this book. For one perfection might be trying to keep the cleanest house, and for another it might be trying to be the prefect employee. These are just two examples, but there are many more.
Holly offers advice for beating perfection in this book. She explains that we are a work in progress and that the only time we will be truly perfect is when we reach Heaven. We shouldn't worry about being perfect. That doesn't mean we shouldn't try hard and work to the best of our abilities, but we should get rid of the need to be perfect. Perfectionism offers a lot of stress, and you know what? You are never to be completely perfect, so when you are trying to be, you're just adding lot of stress to your life for no reason.
She also points out that we shouldn't try to make others perfect, because that's not our job.
I did really like this book, and it offered some great advice, and it also reminded that I'm beautiful in God's eyes. So, stop trying to be perfect and just be who God made you to be!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through their blogger review program, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not asked to write a positive review.
'You're Loved No Matter What' is a book about freeing yourself from the need to be perfect. I don't struggle with trying to be perfect that much, only a little. So, perhaps this just wasn't the book for me to read at the moment. I did enjoy most of the book, and Holly offers great words of wisdom in here as she reveals the struggle that she has had with perfection in the past and ways you can overcome it.
What is perfection, exactly? Well, Holly gives some examples in this book. For one perfection might be trying to keep the cleanest house, and for another it might be trying to be the prefect employee. These are just two examples, but there are many more.
Holly offers advice for beating perfection in this book. She explains that we are a work in progress and that the only time we will be truly perfect is when we reach Heaven. We shouldn't worry about being perfect. That doesn't mean we shouldn't try hard and work to the best of our abilities, but we should get rid of the need to be perfect. Perfectionism offers a lot of stress, and you know what? You are never to be completely perfect, so when you are trying to be, you're just adding lot of stress to your life for no reason.
She also points out that we shouldn't try to make others perfect, because that's not our job.
I did really like this book, and it offered some great advice, and it also reminded that I'm beautiful in God's eyes. So, stop trying to be perfect and just be who God made you to be!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through their blogger review program, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not asked to write a positive review.
March 11, 2015
Once again, I am going to be honest. I am a prideful person that likes to think I get what I need from God, not "women's books". In fact, I usually run away from women's groups, women's books, etc... That being said, I knew I needed to read this book for a review, so I was kinda skimming over the words and just thinking, "blah blah blah".
It's really no wonder that God has to really.... knock me down a few pegs.... a lot.? Not in a bad way, but, in love. And, boy do I LOVE it...
So, after a few chapters of not really knowing anything she had said, I promptly confessed my pride and started over. I may or may not have actually gotten some really neat stuff out of it. (;
Holley has a way of saying things and just getting it out there. No gray. Just black and white. I really found myself enjoying it and, as you can clearly see, underlining portions. Actually, there were a lot of things that she said I hadn't thought about, or just really stuck out as something I want to remember.
The point of the book is to show us we don't have to be perfect. That's the lie that started in the Garden of Eden and we continue believing it to this day. We were not made perfect. Only God is. So why do we try so hard?
One quote that really stuck out to me was, "Our role is simply to stay connected to Him. Ironically, we stunt our spiritual growth when we're focused on making ourselves perfect."
So, all this to say, Great Book! I absolutely recommend it. Make sure you check it out (and pray for me to continue to defeat my pride with God's help!!)
Check out some more of Holley Gerth's booksand see what you think! You can pick up a copy of You're Loved No Matter What through that link. (Totally didn't mean to rhyme that!!!)
Thank you, Revell, for this book. As always, this is my honest review! Here's to many more!!!
It's really no wonder that God has to really.... knock me down a few pegs.... a lot.? Not in a bad way, but, in love. And, boy do I LOVE it...
So, after a few chapters of not really knowing anything she had said, I promptly confessed my pride and started over. I may or may not have actually gotten some really neat stuff out of it. (;
Holley has a way of saying things and just getting it out there. No gray. Just black and white. I really found myself enjoying it and, as you can clearly see, underlining portions. Actually, there were a lot of things that she said I hadn't thought about, or just really stuck out as something I want to remember.
The point of the book is to show us we don't have to be perfect. That's the lie that started in the Garden of Eden and we continue believing it to this day. We were not made perfect. Only God is. So why do we try so hard?
One quote that really stuck out to me was, "Our role is simply to stay connected to Him. Ironically, we stunt our spiritual growth when we're focused on making ourselves perfect."
So, all this to say, Great Book! I absolutely recommend it. Make sure you check it out (and pray for me to continue to defeat my pride with God's help!!)
Check out some more of Holley Gerth's booksand see what you think! You can pick up a copy of You're Loved No Matter What through that link. (Totally didn't mean to rhyme that!!!)
Thank you, Revell, for this book. As always, this is my honest review! Here's to many more!!!
March 13, 2015
I love Holley Gerth and her books so much and was thrilled to be able to get a copy of “You’re Loved No Matter What”.
Thinking that I wasn’t one of those people who struggle with the pressure of perfection, I thought there would still be some things I could learn and glean from this book. But as I began to read, the pages were speaking straight into my heart. You see, the problem was I was really blinded to my own struggle with “perfection” and people-pleasing.
Holley’s book really helped me see the areas where I was holding back because of my fear of failure….’if I can’t measure up, why even try?!’.
It also showed me all of the reasons striving for perfection really sells us short and doesn’t allow us to come to the realization that God loves us in spite of our mess-ups and shortcomings.
I absolutely loved the final chapter and the list of “If You Try To Be Perfect”‘s!
The book also includes a Go Deeper Guide to be used on your own or in a group study setting.
Thinking that I wasn’t one of those people who struggle with the pressure of perfection, I thought there would still be some things I could learn and glean from this book. But as I began to read, the pages were speaking straight into my heart. You see, the problem was I was really blinded to my own struggle with “perfection” and people-pleasing.
Holley’s book really helped me see the areas where I was holding back because of my fear of failure….’if I can’t measure up, why even try?!’.
It also showed me all of the reasons striving for perfection really sells us short and doesn’t allow us to come to the realization that God loves us in spite of our mess-ups and shortcomings.
I absolutely loved the final chapter and the list of “If You Try To Be Perfect”‘s!
The book also includes a Go Deeper Guide to be used on your own or in a group study setting.
August 13, 2016
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
Holley Gerth’s You’re Loved No Matter What: Freeing Your Heart from the Need to Be Perfect capably speaks to a system of beliefs and expectations familiar to all women, I think. She addresses the struggle and the need for perfection with honesty and practicality, making her points real and relevant, and encourages her readers to live in the freedom of God’s grace and growth. With plenty of valuable insight for the women of today, You’re Loved No Matter What is a read I would recommend. Though it can be read quickly and easily, this book contains material to be pondered for weeks to come.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of You’re Loved No Matter What and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Holley Gerth’s You’re Loved No Matter What: Freeing Your Heart from the Need to Be Perfect capably speaks to a system of beliefs and expectations familiar to all women, I think. She addresses the struggle and the need for perfection with honesty and practicality, making her points real and relevant, and encourages her readers to live in the freedom of God’s grace and growth. With plenty of valuable insight for the women of today, You’re Loved No Matter What is a read I would recommend. Though it can be read quickly and easily, this book contains material to be pondered for weeks to come.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of You’re Loved No Matter What and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
March 13, 2015
I really liked this book. Gerth finally sets the record straight. Women do not have to be perfect. We are to be human. She helps us confront the pressure to be perfect. We are able to identify our skills, personality style, and love language so we can truly be who God has called us to be. This book is truly a treasure for women who feel they are being pressured into a mold God did not intend.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1My6g9o.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1My6g9o.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
June 1, 2015
You're Loved No Matter What: Freeing Your Heart From the Need to be Perfect iss such an inspiring read. I thought the book was beautifully written and spoke to me more than I had expected. I look forward to reading more books Holley Gerth. Great book. Five stars
September 9, 2015
It was a solid book. I found the first half to be stronger than the second where I felt the author repeatedly drilled home the same points over and over. I was appreciative of the materials relating to personality types and love languages.
June 23, 2020
I am a fan of Gerth's writing and adore her book "You're Already Amazing". I found some of her writings to cross over between books, which was a little repetitive, yet still relevant. This book is an enjoyable read that feels like a reassuring hug from a friend.
January 31, 2019
Although written for women, I found wisdom I can apply as a man who loves Jesus.
April 17, 2021
You’re Loved No Matter What by Holley Gerth is a must read for anyone living with perfectionism or bad decisions. She helps us to accept ourselves and to know that God loves us.
Holly is so transparent and vulnerable about her own struggles so you know she can relate to what you are going through. She writes from a place of having been there and it feels like you are talking to a friend.
In addition, Holly provides thought provoking questions and discussion topics at the end of the chapters that also makes this a great book to read with friends and discuss.
Recommend!
I received this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
Holly is so transparent and vulnerable about her own struggles so you know she can relate to what you are going through. She writes from a place of having been there and it feels like you are talking to a friend.
In addition, Holly provides thought provoking questions and discussion topics at the end of the chapters that also makes this a great book to read with friends and discuss.
Recommend!
I received this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
February 3, 2020
Sometimes I struggle with perfectionism in myself and for my future, but we weren’t made to be perfect. We were made to love. More important than being perfect is that we’re perfectly loved by our Father in Heaven. This book is an amazing tool in navigating the different expectations we place on ourselves and others. I especially liked the bit on leadership. We are free. We are not bound by worldly expectations. Our God is the God of amazing grace and steadfast love that endures forever. I am absolutely going to need to reread this book again and again.
December 16, 2020
I picked up this book because I had heard of this author but had never read anything by her. I also noticed it was about perfectionism, which is something I really struggle with.
I will start off by saying that I didn't care for the writing style and didn't agree with everything in here. However, God really used this book to help me a lot! I can see how a lot of people would like this book because it's so easy to read and understand. I don't think I care to read another book by this author, but this one was helpful and I'm glad I read it.
I will start off by saying that I didn't care for the writing style and didn't agree with everything in here. However, God really used this book to help me a lot! I can see how a lot of people would like this book because it's so easy to read and understand. I don't think I care to read another book by this author, but this one was helpful and I'm glad I read it.
October 10, 2017
This book described me perfectly! (And yes, it is about perfectionism and it was indeed perfect.) I am a perfectionist and was never satisfied with who I was, I still have a hard time, but this book described my thoughts very well. I could easily relate to what Holley was saying and describing. It was like those were my own words. This helped me build my awareness of my negative self talk and help me work on how to perceive those thoughts and other ways to think about myself.
May 7, 2024
Another incredible book from Holley Gerth! Anyone who’s ever felt the need to “try harder” in order to feel loved and accepted will be blessed by this book. Holley offers biblical wisdom, personal stories, and practical tips on how to embrace and live out the truth that we are fully and perfectly loved by God. There’s even a discussion guide at the end for individual or group use to help you go a little deeper in thought and application. I highly recommend this book!
August 24, 2021
I love all of Holley’s books and this is no exception. So many great pieces of inspiration and encouragement.
Fighting the need for perfection on earth when we just need to strive to be closer to God so he can make us perfect in heaven.
Fighting the need for perfection on earth when we just need to strive to be closer to God so he can make us perfect in heaven.
February 18, 2025
For all of us women striving to be the best wife, mother, daughter, etc., this is a must-read! In today's society, we are led to believe we must be the perfect "everything." This book helps us to let go of being perfect & lets us know we are loved no matter what!
May 18, 2017
Another great book by Holley Gerth. Her books are easy to read and have real life applications.
July 8, 2017
Another great read from Holley. Her writing feels like you have a Biblical coach doing life with you. Appreciate her making wisdom very applicable.
September 13, 2017
I really enjoyed this book and its central message that you don't need to be perfect.
October 2, 2017
Excellent book with practicals on identifying and letting go of perfectionistic tendencies and how to reprogram your brain to believe truth
January 19, 2018
Loved the book and what a great help it was!
September 20, 2018
Fabulous read, reminding us God loves us no matter what and excellency is a matter of perspective
July 9, 2021
Felt a litlle repetitive at times, but definitely worth a read. Such wisdom and great truths in the pages of this book.
I know I will reread it multiple times.
I know I will reread it multiple times.
May 22, 2024
Great reminders in this book! Also, some new perspectives to take the focus off myself and keep it on loving God and others.
February 1, 2025
This book read like it was written from a friend. Very personable and sincere. I skimmed through some that seemed a little repetitive but all was very encouraging and included Scripture.
March 31, 2015
If perfectionism has been invading your turf with flaming arrows doused with doubt and fear, threatening to devour your peace and joy, I have great news for you! There’s a new book in town armed to change that and send those pesky arrows quivering in defeat. Forged by the words crafted by Holley Gerth, You’re Loved No Matter What doubles as a mighty sword. Page after page, it slashes lies whispered to keep you hostage to unrealistic expectations, cuts off the power of “not enough” at its source, and carves truth-shaped love deep into your heart.
What’s remarkable about this sword is how it operates like a Swiss Army knife ready with the tools you can whip out to combat perfectionism and live victoriously free from its strangling grip. The practical and potent toolkit covers boot camp assessment and strengthening exercises that reveal who you are so you can fully live the purpose you are wired and designed for. Holley takes you through discovery stations where you will be equipped to wipe out the perfect-person/like-so-and-so mirage with crystal vision of authentic you via personality tests, skills and strengths finding mission, love language learning curve, and obstacle-smashing course that brings the primary role that fits your strengths into view with bulls-eye accuracy.
You’re Loved No Matter What presents the ultimate field manual set up to guide you through every minefield, tactic and attack perfectionism shoots at you with simple, clear-cut, pocket-sized things you can tackle right away and carry on through all your tomorrows. Packed with brilliant strategies and useful insights it will alert you to where perfectionism comes from and why. Then clothes you with protective layers of know-how. Such as:
- Practical plan for beating perfectionism that walks you though shifting from pursuing perfection to embracing God’s love
- 5 elements needed to be perfect in God’s eyes, offering new perspectives that will change your life
- Difference between guilt and godly sorrow and how to switch from guilt cycle to grace cycle with ease
- Gratitude tools that knock-out guilt and perfectionism with a swift 1-2 punch
-7 steps to freeing your heart forever from the shackles of perfectionism in a ‘Magna Carta’ type declaration of new-found freedom, followed by a prayer for each step
- 7 reasons to pick up your sword and fight to protect against perfectionism
- Characteristics of real people
- Characteristics of God and qualities of His love
- Commitment of Words pledge of allegiance to each other and to the loving God who made us
- Go Deeper Guide for individuals and groups
…and so much more!
Key to winning back your freedom from perfectionism is locking into the truth behind the title of the book. Believing that God loves you no matter what acts like a semi-permeable breastplate over your heart that deflects the fiery arrows of perfectionism while letting love flow freely both ways. It rescues us from the snares of trying harder and liberates peaceful contentment with who we are. Where we are. Because, as the book explains, God’s love has no limits, expectations or requirements; is not dependent on us, cannot be earned and has our ultimate good in mind.
Feeling totally loved and accepted by the unchanging God we naturally respond with love and acceptance in return. What better way to rouse up the troops than with a heart fully loaded with high-caliber love? The kind that stops us dead in our tracks from chasing crazy standards. The kind that causes us to drop the reins holding us back for fear of failure or not measuring up while boldly offering the best of who we are and embracing the best in others with love and grace.
That’s the cool irony about enlisting in God’s cavalry. Though the battle against perfectionism rages on, it is actually a lifelong process fired by love and with joy Together with our God leading the charge, we stand side by side and heart to heart, rifle-ready to stand guard against perfectionism. Shielding against the dangers of approval-hungry insecurities, we furnish a safe, welcoming haven for each other to come home to…the way we are. Just like Holley says, the truths in this book become real in relationship – in the everyday admission that none of us have it all together but we are all better together.
When we know we’re loved no matter what our hearts are freed from the need to be perfect. Free to love and be loved without reservation. Free to be all God created us to be with hearts and hands open to everything He has for us. Which makes perfect sense, don’t you think?!
So, pick up a copy of You’re Loved No Matter What. Take its truths with you everywhere you go. Share it with everyone you know, That way we can all live free joyfully and lovingly forever. Together.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Revell Publishing for the invitation to be part of You’re Loved No Matter What Blog Tour and the complimentary book in exchange for this unbiased review.
What’s remarkable about this sword is how it operates like a Swiss Army knife ready with the tools you can whip out to combat perfectionism and live victoriously free from its strangling grip. The practical and potent toolkit covers boot camp assessment and strengthening exercises that reveal who you are so you can fully live the purpose you are wired and designed for. Holley takes you through discovery stations where you will be equipped to wipe out the perfect-person/like-so-and-so mirage with crystal vision of authentic you via personality tests, skills and strengths finding mission, love language learning curve, and obstacle-smashing course that brings the primary role that fits your strengths into view with bulls-eye accuracy.
You’re Loved No Matter What presents the ultimate field manual set up to guide you through every minefield, tactic and attack perfectionism shoots at you with simple, clear-cut, pocket-sized things you can tackle right away and carry on through all your tomorrows. Packed with brilliant strategies and useful insights it will alert you to where perfectionism comes from and why. Then clothes you with protective layers of know-how. Such as:
- Practical plan for beating perfectionism that walks you though shifting from pursuing perfection to embracing God’s love
- 5 elements needed to be perfect in God’s eyes, offering new perspectives that will change your life
- Difference between guilt and godly sorrow and how to switch from guilt cycle to grace cycle with ease
- Gratitude tools that knock-out guilt and perfectionism with a swift 1-2 punch
-7 steps to freeing your heart forever from the shackles of perfectionism in a ‘Magna Carta’ type declaration of new-found freedom, followed by a prayer for each step
- 7 reasons to pick up your sword and fight to protect against perfectionism
- Characteristics of real people
- Characteristics of God and qualities of His love
- Commitment of Words pledge of allegiance to each other and to the loving God who made us
- Go Deeper Guide for individuals and groups
…and so much more!
Key to winning back your freedom from perfectionism is locking into the truth behind the title of the book. Believing that God loves you no matter what acts like a semi-permeable breastplate over your heart that deflects the fiery arrows of perfectionism while letting love flow freely both ways. It rescues us from the snares of trying harder and liberates peaceful contentment with who we are. Where we are. Because, as the book explains, God’s love has no limits, expectations or requirements; is not dependent on us, cannot be earned and has our ultimate good in mind.
Feeling totally loved and accepted by the unchanging God we naturally respond with love and acceptance in return. What better way to rouse up the troops than with a heart fully loaded with high-caliber love? The kind that stops us dead in our tracks from chasing crazy standards. The kind that causes us to drop the reins holding us back for fear of failure or not measuring up while boldly offering the best of who we are and embracing the best in others with love and grace.
That’s the cool irony about enlisting in God’s cavalry. Though the battle against perfectionism rages on, it is actually a lifelong process fired by love and with joy Together with our God leading the charge, we stand side by side and heart to heart, rifle-ready to stand guard against perfectionism. Shielding against the dangers of approval-hungry insecurities, we furnish a safe, welcoming haven for each other to come home to…the way we are. Just like Holley says, the truths in this book become real in relationship – in the everyday admission that none of us have it all together but we are all better together.
When we know we’re loved no matter what our hearts are freed from the need to be perfect. Free to love and be loved without reservation. Free to be all God created us to be with hearts and hands open to everything He has for us. Which makes perfect sense, don’t you think?!
So, pick up a copy of You’re Loved No Matter What. Take its truths with you everywhere you go. Share it with everyone you know, That way we can all live free joyfully and lovingly forever. Together.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Revell Publishing for the invitation to be part of You’re Loved No Matter What Blog Tour and the complimentary book in exchange for this unbiased review.
March 13, 2015
I received a free ebook copy of this novel from the publisher Revell Reads at Baker Books in exchange for an honest review as part of a blog tour.
You're Loved No Matter What is much more than just another book about unconditional love. This is a deep and perceptive look at familiar scriptures that may not be as straightforward as they once seemed, but instead give us a completely new perspective on perfection as the world sees it in contrast to perfection from the point of view of God. Many of the problems that affect our daily lives come from our lack of perfection, we think. If we were just perfect, perhaps . . . our spouse would love us the way we'd like, our children would be better behaved, our boss would be happier with our performance, our parents wouldn't be so critical. If I could just be like Mary who has it all together, or like Jane whose house is perfect, or like Sandra who is always being complimented by the boss. But is trying to be like someone else or trying to be perfect going to make our lives better? Ms. Gerth says not only will it not make things better but it isn't what God wants for us. We already have "positional perfection" through Christ's sacrifice and our acceptance of salvation, and His will for us is to love Him and love others through His grace.
I found this a very challenging concept -- to let go of trying to always do things perfectly, to always say "yes" when asked to do something for fear of letting people down. But fear is not part of love -- "perfect love drives out fear [and shame and condemnation], because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love" (1John 4:18), and God wants our relationship to be secure and not driven by fear of Him. Paul says, "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Phil. 1:6). Our perfection will be "completed" by Him at the end, not in the here and now. Life is a journey of growth where
we are expected to love one another, not to strive for the unattainable perfection we cannot achieve on our own but only through our relationship with Christ. To work, which is good in God's eyes, for excellence, using the talents He has given us, and be satisfied to let other things be "good", will give us the peace we seek and help us to let go of the rest. Holley points out that excellence can be described differently depending on the conditions;chicken soup with rice can be an excellent meal when the whole household is down with the flu.
Holley gives us a lot of scripture-based ideas and resources to help us determine who we are and how we love and encourages us to let go of trying to be like someone else we may think has the perfect handle on things. She also tells us that changing our perspective on the concept of perfection will not be easy and we may backslide into that striving over and over again, but once we're aware of it, we can continue to rest in His love and His standing before the Father. There are many websites with resources offered here, including Holley's own site where links are provided and print-outs of practical exercises and discussion questions are available. Some of this brings me back to "living intentionally" with a committed prayer community because changes do not occur in isolation -- we need people in our corner as well as needing to accept that He loves us as we are.
This book is life-changing and growth-encouraging, and will end up with page corners turned down and highlighted passages to be referred to again and again. It will allow you to be who you are -- who God intended you to be.
You're Loved No Matter What is much more than just another book about unconditional love. This is a deep and perceptive look at familiar scriptures that may not be as straightforward as they once seemed, but instead give us a completely new perspective on perfection as the world sees it in contrast to perfection from the point of view of God. Many of the problems that affect our daily lives come from our lack of perfection, we think. If we were just perfect, perhaps . . . our spouse would love us the way we'd like, our children would be better behaved, our boss would be happier with our performance, our parents wouldn't be so critical. If I could just be like Mary who has it all together, or like Jane whose house is perfect, or like Sandra who is always being complimented by the boss. But is trying to be like someone else or trying to be perfect going to make our lives better? Ms. Gerth says not only will it not make things better but it isn't what God wants for us. We already have "positional perfection" through Christ's sacrifice and our acceptance of salvation, and His will for us is to love Him and love others through His grace.
I found this a very challenging concept -- to let go of trying to always do things perfectly, to always say "yes" when asked to do something for fear of letting people down. But fear is not part of love -- "perfect love drives out fear [and shame and condemnation], because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love" (1John 4:18), and God wants our relationship to be secure and not driven by fear of Him. Paul says, "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Phil. 1:6). Our perfection will be "completed" by Him at the end, not in the here and now. Life is a journey of growth where
we are expected to love one another, not to strive for the unattainable perfection we cannot achieve on our own but only through our relationship with Christ. To work, which is good in God's eyes, for excellence, using the talents He has given us, and be satisfied to let other things be "good", will give us the peace we seek and help us to let go of the rest. Holley points out that excellence can be described differently depending on the conditions;chicken soup with rice can be an excellent meal when the whole household is down with the flu.
Holley gives us a lot of scripture-based ideas and resources to help us determine who we are and how we love and encourages us to let go of trying to be like someone else we may think has the perfect handle on things. She also tells us that changing our perspective on the concept of perfection will not be easy and we may backslide into that striving over and over again, but once we're aware of it, we can continue to rest in His love and His standing before the Father. There are many websites with resources offered here, including Holley's own site where links are provided and print-outs of practical exercises and discussion questions are available. Some of this brings me back to "living intentionally" with a committed prayer community because changes do not occur in isolation -- we need people in our corner as well as needing to accept that He loves us as we are.
This book is life-changing and growth-encouraging, and will end up with page corners turned down and highlighted passages to be referred to again and again. It will allow you to be who you are -- who God intended you to be.
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