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A Small Book about Why We Hide: How Jesus Rescues Us from Insecurity, Regret, Failure, and Shame
As humans, we are prone to insecurities, fear of failure, and regrets which we try to hide and cover up, resulting in isolation from both those around us and God. Through fifty devotionals, counselor Edward T. Welch shows us how God speaks with gentleness, depth, and hope that will lead us out of hiding and to live more openly, authentic, and regret-free.
Welch speaks to our struggles with shame, disappointments, and inadequacy with God’s words of love and change. Welch shows us how we were created to be known by God and others, and how hiding undermines these relationships. Each daily devotional focuses on a specific biblical truth that unpacks the reasons underlying our feelings of failure and weakness and then points us in the direction of turning to God for acceptance, identity, and security.
Sometimes we hide because of our own failures and weakness, and sometimes we hide because of what others have done and said to us, but in either case, we can be free from shame because of the work of Christ on the cross. Jesus took our shame on himself, so we can trust that now we are valued children of God.
Through a closer examination of Scripture, we can be assured God will meet us in the insecurities of daily life. We can find true security in his love and live freely and honestly with others.
Welch speaks to our struggles with shame, disappointments, and inadequacy with God’s words of love and change. Welch shows us how we were created to be known by God and others, and how hiding undermines these relationships. Each daily devotional focuses on a specific biblical truth that unpacks the reasons underlying our feelings of failure and weakness and then points us in the direction of turning to God for acceptance, identity, and security.
Sometimes we hide because of our own failures and weakness, and sometimes we hide because of what others have done and said to us, but in either case, we can be free from shame because of the work of Christ on the cross. Jesus took our shame on himself, so we can trust that now we are valued children of God.
Through a closer examination of Scripture, we can be assured God will meet us in the insecurities of daily life. We can find true security in his love and live freely and honestly with others.
252 pages, Hardcover
First published September 27, 2021
100 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
About the author
Edward T. Welch
98 books466 followersEdward T. Welch, M.Div., Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and faculty member at the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF). He has counseled for thirty years and is the best-selling author of many books including When People Are Big and God Is Small; Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave; Blame It on the Brain?; Depression: A Stubborn Darkness; Crossroads: A Step-by-Step Guide Away from Addiction; Running Scared: Fear, Worry, and the God of Rest; and When I Am Afraid: A Step-by-Step Guide Away from Fear and Anxiety. He and his wife Sheri have two daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 10, 2022
Excerpt from my Frontline Internship reflection paper:
My experience going into reading A Small Book About Why We Hide (I’ll call it WWH here on out) was that of excitement and high expectation. This was due entirely to reading A Small Book for the Anxious Heart as a part of the Leadership Development Cohort last year – a devotional that gradually revolutionized the way I viewed my anxiety in light of the Gospel, unlike anything I’ve read or heard. Now upon (almost) completing WWH, I can safely say that it matched the expectation of that first book, though in a different direction, and was the catalyst to some refreshing dialogue I’ve had with those in my community.
A large part of the benefit I took from this book revolved around dealing with insecurity. Even acknowledging it exists in my heart was a win, but to then further speak truth over it through what Jesus has done at the Cross and is doing in the Spirit. More so than any Christian self-help teaching, this book emphasized the Gospel’s power over the heart. (Welch’s zingers like “Your sin problem is worse than your insecurity” are hard to slap on a Mardel motivational poster!) However, this was not done to the end of dismissing the heart’s power and importance, and I appreciate how WWH uses great nuance and compassion to parse through the complexity of insecurity.
One major expression of insecurity/anxiety/shame this book helped to name has existed for a long time, but in this residency I’ve now had to face head on more than ever: the fear of man. Both the nature and nurture of most of my upbringing have reinforced this fear in my already sinful nature, to the point where it’s the closest thing I have to “a thorn in my flesh”. The words of conviction and comfort Welch brings to my soul through this book have been incredibly needed – not only for my own perception alone, but to express that to others. One applicable way this plays out is actually with Frontline staff. I’ve had good conversations with both Phil and Charlie about my anxious need to be accepted by elders, deacons, or other leaders in high standing in our church, especially in the worship ministry… it’s this unhealthy and unbiblical need to be accepted and approved of by people that, though I genuinely respect and think highly of, are imperfect people and not God. Firstly, I felt immensely seen and known in bringing this up with them, especially in how gracious and understanding they were of my fears. But independent of their response, I’ve felt empowered to an unbelievable degree by teachings in WHH that emphasize how God’s love and presence are truly enough, and how in that sufficient love I can then love others more than needing love from them. That was HUGE for me as a chronic people-pleaser, and aims my heart at Christ more and more.
All being said, this is far from the last I’ll battle the fear of man in my life. It really does feel like a huge mountain to climb to overcome shame and insecurity in my life… if it’s even possible to “fully” overcome. There’s a lot on in the latter part of the book on shame that I know I have yet to really dig into and understand, and to know why I feel unloveable and I don’t belong. Though in that looming scope of what I have yet to walk in, another comforting thought in the book was nestled in a response question, where Welch states “God favors slow, steady growth using ordinary means.” This gives rest to my anxiousness to have my heart figured out overnight, and to trust God with what he will teach me the next day / next month / next year. This even points to how beneficial daily devotionals are to me, where the many small steps take me further than the giant leap.
My experience going into reading A Small Book About Why We Hide (I’ll call it WWH here on out) was that of excitement and high expectation. This was due entirely to reading A Small Book for the Anxious Heart as a part of the Leadership Development Cohort last year – a devotional that gradually revolutionized the way I viewed my anxiety in light of the Gospel, unlike anything I’ve read or heard. Now upon (almost) completing WWH, I can safely say that it matched the expectation of that first book, though in a different direction, and was the catalyst to some refreshing dialogue I’ve had with those in my community.
A large part of the benefit I took from this book revolved around dealing with insecurity. Even acknowledging it exists in my heart was a win, but to then further speak truth over it through what Jesus has done at the Cross and is doing in the Spirit. More so than any Christian self-help teaching, this book emphasized the Gospel’s power over the heart. (Welch’s zingers like “Your sin problem is worse than your insecurity” are hard to slap on a Mardel motivational poster!) However, this was not done to the end of dismissing the heart’s power and importance, and I appreciate how WWH uses great nuance and compassion to parse through the complexity of insecurity.
One major expression of insecurity/anxiety/shame this book helped to name has existed for a long time, but in this residency I’ve now had to face head on more than ever: the fear of man. Both the nature and nurture of most of my upbringing have reinforced this fear in my already sinful nature, to the point where it’s the closest thing I have to “a thorn in my flesh”. The words of conviction and comfort Welch brings to my soul through this book have been incredibly needed – not only for my own perception alone, but to express that to others. One applicable way this plays out is actually with Frontline staff. I’ve had good conversations with both Phil and Charlie about my anxious need to be accepted by elders, deacons, or other leaders in high standing in our church, especially in the worship ministry… it’s this unhealthy and unbiblical need to be accepted and approved of by people that, though I genuinely respect and think highly of, are imperfect people and not God. Firstly, I felt immensely seen and known in bringing this up with them, especially in how gracious and understanding they were of my fears. But independent of their response, I’ve felt empowered to an unbelievable degree by teachings in WHH that emphasize how God’s love and presence are truly enough, and how in that sufficient love I can then love others more than needing love from them. That was HUGE for me as a chronic people-pleaser, and aims my heart at Christ more and more.
All being said, this is far from the last I’ll battle the fear of man in my life. It really does feel like a huge mountain to climb to overcome shame and insecurity in my life… if it’s even possible to “fully” overcome. There’s a lot on in the latter part of the book on shame that I know I have yet to really dig into and understand, and to know why I feel unloveable and I don’t belong. Though in that looming scope of what I have yet to walk in, another comforting thought in the book was nestled in a response question, where Welch states “God favors slow, steady growth using ordinary means.” This gives rest to my anxiousness to have my heart figured out overnight, and to trust God with what he will teach me the next day / next month / next year. This even points to how beneficial daily devotionals are to me, where the many small steps take me further than the giant leap.
December 2, 2021
Encouraging but challenging. Mike got me this book, and I wasn’t sure I completely fit the intended audience, but the more I read, the more I appreciated what Welch had to say. Sometimes it hit home, sometimes it helped me think about how approach an issue with someone else. Very helpful.
January 31, 2022
This insightful book gently confronts the false beliefs and thinking patterns that often trap us in the shame and insecurity resulting from failure and regret. My heart was counseled and I am learning to rest in Jesus and my acceptance by God.
September 26, 2021
Welch provides 50 devotions that are thoughtful reflections on biblical truths. I like the idea of reading one devotion a day or even one a week. Welch reminds us that turning to God for our identity and acceptance is not something automatic. We need to practice and the format of this book helps us do that. Welch concentrates on our letting Scripture reshape our life. He provides practical suggestions, such as how to talk to God, confess to Him, and listen for words of life.
I found a few of surprises in these devotional readings. Welch writes that the difficulties we have with other people in our relationships are typically found in our relationship with the Lord. (21) That made me stop and think! Welch also has a lesson on learning to fail well. He encourages us to embrace Jesus' compassion, turning to Him, helping us deal with perfectionism.
This is a book that should be read slowly with thoughtful reflection. None of us is immune to insecurities, fear and regrets. This book gives us the tools to take our struggles to the truth of Scripture, knowing we will find healing for deep issues. God created us to be open and honest with Him and others and this book will help us move along to that place.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I found a few of surprises in these devotional readings. Welch writes that the difficulties we have with other people in our relationships are typically found in our relationship with the Lord. (21) That made me stop and think! Welch also has a lesson on learning to fail well. He encourages us to embrace Jesus' compassion, turning to Him, helping us deal with perfectionism.
This is a book that should be read slowly with thoughtful reflection. None of us is immune to insecurities, fear and regrets. This book gives us the tools to take our struggles to the truth of Scripture, knowing we will find healing for deep issues. God created us to be open and honest with Him and others and this book will help us move along to that place.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
August 6, 2025
Just gave this book a good over view by reading many random parts of it, didn’t read the whole thing. Looks like a fantastic book about shame with short devotional thoughts followed by reflection questions. Intended for 50 days of use. Will keep this book in mind for studying with someone in the future.
December 8, 2024
I'm so thankful I got the chance to read this with a book study group. I think the value in this book is found in the topics being brought to your attention and not necessarily an intense dive into the Bible. The topics brought up are ones you need to identify, work through, and come to understand, in order to have growth in your relationships with others and with God. It was really good for me personally as I was finishing another semester where a lot of growth was needed (and happened).
March 19, 2023
Amazing small book. I started reading day to day and couldn't keep up but finally read as a book and finished. It was a blessing to read and I handed over to someone struggling in this area as well. Such a powerful book for those that struggle with the lies we believe. Thank for God's word and those skilled to counsel.
April 4, 2025
Such a great series of little books by Ed Welch. This one had some really sweet insights. Last day would be a really good counseling assignment.
November 2, 2021
My Thoughts:
Several reasons why I love, A Small Book About Why We Hide.
1. The book is divided not by chapters per se but days. There are 50 days in the book.
2. I love this line in the intro or “Start Here” section: “But we wonder if we need something else to speak to the hidden parts of our lives-the fears, shame, regret, and failures.” And in a follow up statement about anxiety and shame, “God aims to replace it with a settled confidence.”
3. I love how the book encourages us to speak to God honestly about our fears.
4. From Day 2. Women and men experience anxiety and insecurities differently. For women it can look like fear or shame. For men it can look like anger. This is interesting to me! And it is eye-opening
5. From Day 7. Another eye-opening teaching is when we are honest with God we are “less terrified to be seen by other people.”
6. Throughout the book two things kept resonating: honesty before God and turning towards Him.
7. Day 15 is about the desire to be perfect and pleasing. We are actually trying to “measure up to people’s standards. These rules are not necessarily bad, but they are not Gods.” I struggle with this.
8. Subtopics discussed in the book: hiding our selves from others, weakness, rejection, shame, regrets, living out our purpose from God, writing out a confession, and humility.
9. A Small Book About Why We Hide is easy to understand and apply. It is straight-forward. It has solid helpful techniques.
Favorite quotes:
From Day 8. “To be truly human is to know that everything we have is a gift from our Father.”
From Day 23. “True success occurs as we turn to Jesus rather than turn inward.”
From Day 33. “Regrets do not exist in heaven.”
From Day 50. “One of the most powerful ways to ward off insecurity and shame is to live out your God-given purpose right now. Life with Jesus is crammed with purpose. After he calls you to new roles, he sends you out to live them in everyday life.”
Format: E-book.
Source: I received a complimentary e-book copy from New Growth Press. I am not required to write a positive review.
Audience: Christian readers who want to read about help for anxiety.
Rating: Very good.
Several reasons why I love, A Small Book About Why We Hide.
1. The book is divided not by chapters per se but days. There are 50 days in the book.
2. I love this line in the intro or “Start Here” section: “But we wonder if we need something else to speak to the hidden parts of our lives-the fears, shame, regret, and failures.” And in a follow up statement about anxiety and shame, “God aims to replace it with a settled confidence.”
3. I love how the book encourages us to speak to God honestly about our fears.
4. From Day 2. Women and men experience anxiety and insecurities differently. For women it can look like fear or shame. For men it can look like anger. This is interesting to me! And it is eye-opening
5. From Day 7. Another eye-opening teaching is when we are honest with God we are “less terrified to be seen by other people.”
6. Throughout the book two things kept resonating: honesty before God and turning towards Him.
7. Day 15 is about the desire to be perfect and pleasing. We are actually trying to “measure up to people’s standards. These rules are not necessarily bad, but they are not Gods.” I struggle with this.
8. Subtopics discussed in the book: hiding our selves from others, weakness, rejection, shame, regrets, living out our purpose from God, writing out a confession, and humility.
9. A Small Book About Why We Hide is easy to understand and apply. It is straight-forward. It has solid helpful techniques.
Favorite quotes:
From Day 8. “To be truly human is to know that everything we have is a gift from our Father.”
From Day 23. “True success occurs as we turn to Jesus rather than turn inward.”
From Day 33. “Regrets do not exist in heaven.”
From Day 50. “One of the most powerful ways to ward off insecurity and shame is to live out your God-given purpose right now. Life with Jesus is crammed with purpose. After he calls you to new roles, he sends you out to live them in everyday life.”
Format: E-book.
Source: I received a complimentary e-book copy from New Growth Press. I am not required to write a positive review.
Audience: Christian readers who want to read about help for anxiety.
Rating: Very good.
October 18, 2021
I can assure you this, probably when you read this: "insecurity, regret, failure, and shame" you may think about other people who you think may benefit from this book, you may think about family, friends or people you are counseling. BUT I´m sure that if you read it, you will find some areas to grow. This book is not divided into chapters, but into 50 devotionals. It is easy to read at fast peace, but I think you will benefit more if you start and ponder.
If you are a person who has suffered from abuse (any kind) or trauma, you will find this helpful. If you are cold and strong and get desperate with people who are not type A, outgoing, and secure you will also find this useful, because you may try to understand and have empathy with the people you love and are like that.
I really enjoy Ed Welch's books, they are clear, easy to read and useful, practical. Love the Response part at the end of each devotion. If you don´t like some days, keep reading, and I´m sure you will find other treasures ahead.
If you want to grow in your identity in Christ, and silence the ugly inner voices who haunt you, this book will be helpful.
If you are a person who has suffered from abuse (any kind) or trauma, you will find this helpful. If you are cold and strong and get desperate with people who are not type A, outgoing, and secure you will also find this useful, because you may try to understand and have empathy with the people you love and are like that.
I really enjoy Ed Welch's books, they are clear, easy to read and useful, practical. Love the Response part at the end of each devotion. If you don´t like some days, keep reading, and I´m sure you will find other treasures ahead.
If you want to grow in your identity in Christ, and silence the ugly inner voices who haunt you, this book will be helpful.
June 12, 2025
A few months ago, a friend and I got onto the topics of identity, people-pleasing, and putting up a front for others. It’s something I’ve considered at times, but never knew how to address in myself—or even where to start. “I’ve got a book that might help you!” my friend said, and handed this one to me.
I read it over the next couple of months, and wow…was it ever impactful! This book is all about bringing the things we’d rather others not see to Jesus, and then what He wants to do with them. Each devotional breathes with the life-giving love of Jesus, and although many, many different hurts and ways we’re broken are discussed, you come away feeling helped rather than condemned.
It’s hard to know how to put into words what an encouragement this book was to me. I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface of everything I could potentially learn from this book—it’s definitely one I’ll want to re-read at some stage. Practical, helpful, and hope-infused, buying this is a gift to yourself (and also makes a great gift for others!).
I read it over the next couple of months, and wow…was it ever impactful! This book is all about bringing the things we’d rather others not see to Jesus, and then what He wants to do with them. Each devotional breathes with the life-giving love of Jesus, and although many, many different hurts and ways we’re broken are discussed, you come away feeling helped rather than condemned.
It’s hard to know how to put into words what an encouragement this book was to me. I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface of everything I could potentially learn from this book—it’s definitely one I’ll want to re-read at some stage. Practical, helpful, and hope-infused, buying this is a gift to yourself (and also makes a great gift for others!).
January 18, 2026
Are there any words in this book that are NOT worth highlighting??
I read and re-read this one. Hugely impactful and practical. I can’t say for sure what made me pick up the book in the first place. Possibly trying to help others I know are struggling, but I suspect my heart recognized some buried needs of my own. Even after a couple of decades of walking with Jesus, there were many things that helped untangle some ingrained beliefs I didn’t even realize had bound me up. Highly recommended.
I read and re-read this one. Hugely impactful and practical. I can’t say for sure what made me pick up the book in the first place. Possibly trying to help others I know are struggling, but I suspect my heart recognized some buried needs of my own. Even after a couple of decades of walking with Jesus, there were many things that helped untangle some ingrained beliefs I didn’t even realize had bound me up. Highly recommended.
July 16, 2025
A trustworthy author brings together a wonderful understanding of God with a keen understanding of people. I’m richer for having read this book. And I encourage a slow and prayerful reading. Or read aloud with a couple of trusted pilgrims. There’s plenty of strength and encouragement to be found in this book. As well as beautiful wording and ageless comfort.
December 3, 2023
Love Ed Welch & his ability to beautifully write about emotion! His style is a bit eclectic but so profound and he picks up on the nuances of the hard emotions to process. I really enjoyed this book, read it devotional-style and have been through it a couple times over as a supplement.
August 1, 2024
Sometimes in the book it’s easy to just read through a chapter without thinking too much about, but by the end you are very thankful for all that has been read. This is a book that would be worth reading again…and often.
January 23, 2022
Fantastic devotional helping us to apply the gospel to our shame and fear of man.
November 29, 2023
It is a helpful devotional book about overcoming shame.
April 5, 2024
I love this book! It explains shame and why we carry it. It concludes that God has a purpose for our shame and a reason to it.
May 19, 2024
A good one! Reading it slowly with pondering,reflecting, and praying, which benefits my soul!
December 5, 2024
Mini daily read to help maintain traction towards a biblically perspective around shame, your shame and dealing with it with God.
December 6, 2023
What wonderful book. Small enough for the handbag or pocket. So glad this is in my library. This really helped.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews