The Heart of Recovery Lib/E: How Compassion and Community Offer Hope in the Wake of Addiction

by David Beddoe

The United States is the most medicated country in the world. More than 1.7 million Americans are struggling with addiction to prescription painkillers, fueling the opioid crisis that claims more than 140 lives every day. The trouble isn't just the drugs--it's that we don't know what to do with the people addicted to them. Not as a country, not as the church. Is tough love called for? Or would Christ have us take a different approach to addiction recovery?

Drawn from the personal experience of the authors and current research, The Heart of Recovery calls us to set aside judgment and mend recovering addicts and their families with the stuff God uses to heal: compassion and community. It's a call to serve the ones who cannot repay, to forgive 70 times 7, to fling the door wide-open to the prodigal, and to remember the purpose of grace. A supportive community--family, friends, the church, and more--encourages and sustains long-term recovery. Through compassion, we bring hope for healing.

Genres: Addiction, Nonfiction

Audio CD

First published November 5, 2019

Reviews

[Rachel DeVaughn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very touched by the introduction of this story. Deborah and David say up front that they are not counselors or therapists-they are simply telling their own personal addiction story in hope that it will inspire and help others who may also struggle with addictions.

This book was written by a Christian standpoint and includes chapters like recovery. compassion, rehab, friendship, and the healing effects of counseling. The book focused mostly on the addiction of prescription pain killers because that's what David struggled with. I was hoping for a more generic addiction recovery book, not one focused only on opioids, but it was still good and worth reading.

I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.

[Timothy Gates · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Heart of Recovery by Deborah and David Beddoe is so packed full of real life experience and hard learned insights concerning addiction and recovery. But perhaps even more, it is a wonderful story of Faith, Hope and Love. And Grace. Lots and lots of Grace.

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book doesn't have all the "answers" nor does it claim to, but I think it presents a very balanced approach in how to actively love someone in recovery and also helped me to understand addiction better.

[Jill Rey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author, David Beddoe struggled with addiction himself. After being prescribed synthetic Opioids for his chronic migraines he secretly spiraled into taking 30 pills a day.  His addiction spanned beyond just the pills, but into the lies and financial commitments it required to sustain this habit. His wife, and co-author, Deborah did not struggle personally with addiction, but rather with the seismic effects addiction causes in a loved one’s life. Together, Dave and Deb provide thoughtful insights into overcoming addiction, rehab and recovery. They acknowledge that everyone’s journey looks different, but rarely is it easy on anyone.

What makes this book unique though is their recognition that the Christian faith often tells those suffering from addiction to “pray more,” or “repent fully” without appreciating the need for medical intervention and guidance. While this experience may have been exclusive to them, this account is may be inexplicable relatable to anyone struggling in their faith. The church tells us to seek treatment when we have the flu, in fact, our community often rallies around us when we are physically sick helping with meals, childcare, etc. but the alarming truth Dave and Deb point out is that the stigmatism of drug addiction often comes with a VERY different community and church response – even when that drug addiction is prescribed directly from a licensed medical practitioner.
The Heart of Recovery is a very REAL account of one family’s struggle to overcome addiction and the constructive support of ministry, community and friends they needed to finally be successful.

*Disclaimer: A review copy was provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Benjamin Liles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often find that forgiveness is a very interesting creature. Recently I wrote that "Reconciliation is more than simple forgiveness, but seeking to make community whole and better." Then I read the majority of the verses of Hebrews 12:14, Matthew 5:24, and Ephesians 2:15-18. In other words, what Deborah and David are doing with their book, The Heart of Recovery, is to show and hep those caught in painful addiction that there is a way out; a way of hope and future. It's why I love what God tells Jeremiah, "For I know the plans I have for you; they arethe way of peace, not evil, to give you a hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11).

If and when we all choose to do things the Lord's way we would more than often find ourselves in a much better community, a better way to live, and ultimately able to reconcile ourselves one to another. But to be honest about this work by this husband and wife team, the Beddoe's, I find their honesty, their love and compassion for one another isn't just far-reaching, but all inclusive. That's the way we all ought to be for and towards one another. When God talks about justice, this is what He means by it, to treat one another with His level of mercy and grace.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest review of the book. I did enjoy this book and it can help a lot of people. It's not meant for just recovery from addiction to pills, but alcohol, and a litany of other things including depression, bipolar disorder (what I suffer from and deal with), among a host of others that we all either deal with in our lives.

[Irene · Rating 4 out of 5]

To be completely honest, I did not realize the full impact that the opioid epidemic had on our society until it became a leading issue taken up by the US government and the current first lady of the United States. Since then, my eyes have been opened to things that I never noticed before. I now see the devastation that opioid addiction has inflicted on families and communities, how It has infiltrated our homes and schools. And it’s thanks to the amazing people that were courageous enough to share their stories and experiences, people that were/are impacted hard by this crisis, that I had that eye opening.

When I saw that Revell had a book up for review that dealt with this issue, I was ready to read it! I wanted to learn more about opioid addiction and the people affected by it. And with The Heart Of Recovery, I did learn more. In this book, Deborah and David Beddoe shares a story that is both personal and moving. I could feel that each chapter came from the heart. Reading this book was also view changing for me. It made me rethink how I looked at everything that involves the opioid crisis. It gave a personal side to this epidemic where as before I only thought about it in a general sense. And it really convinced me on why compassion and understanding is needed from us as a society to the people that are on their journey of recovery. In short, I appreciated this book!

Thanks to Revell for providing a free copy for my honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[DL (Donna) Rudd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Addiction is a real problem. Hiding the shame and struggle is a battle for so many. But in this book, Deborah and David share their very personal story of just that. RX addiction that takes them down a deep dark hole, with seemingly no way out.

It’s very brave to share with the public the story of their life and how they overcame this problem.

What a tremendous encouragement it is to have the strength, even when it is so minute, to lean on trusted people who helped them through this long ordeal. People need to reach out and lift others up as in this story. Help can be something as little as a gas card for the person to get to work, or baby-sitting services, mow a lawn, a cup of coffee and a listening ear.

When we share our struggles, it ends up helping other people to overcome their problems. Too often shame, and lies, and bigger problems occur due to the stigma associated with whatever it is that is hidden.

But healing is the answer. The journey to recovery offers hope to the person once conquered the issue, and compassion becomes a way to heal the heart.

This is a story of redemption, with the long road home. A definite read, especially if you are on the road to recovery, or know someone who is!

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book that weaves Deborah and David’s journey from each of their perspectives, along with much useful information for the reader who may be walking with someone struggling. David’s addiction is one that is much more common than one might think because the habit is supported and fed into my the medical community unknowingly. He became addicted to pain killers. His life was one of keeping up with ministry and life while trying to sustain his habit. I appreciated his honesty and being able to get into the heart and head of the one who struggled with the addiction. I also appreciated that Deborah’s story is included, and how honest she is about the struggle of walking with someone who relapsed a few times and her emotions and struggles. They take you inside their story, but also into the world of addiction and recovery with all its challenges but also great resources for people walking along families and individuals and how to support them in their recovery.

I highly recommend this read. It is well written and so helpful with many resources and insights from both the authors' and others that enables the reader to be more compassionate and helpful as they walk with those struggling with addiction.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

David and Deborah Beddoe open up their hearts to us in this hope-filled book on their journey with Dave's opioid addiction. If you don't know anyone with an opioid addition now, you probably will. Opioid addiction is no respecter of persons and anyone is vulnerable. Dave was and is a good man--a pastor, husband, father but he spent many years battling an addiction to prescription opioids that his doctor prescribed for Dave's migraines.

I highly recommend reading this book! It is well written and gives you both Dave and Deborah's perspective during this trial of many years. It is very practical too and gave me many good ideas for helping be the community that addicts need. They are honest about what worked for them and what didn't. Pastors, counselors, friends, spouses, parents, followers of Christ, really anyone needs to hear and learn from the Beddoes.

[Melinda Staley · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Heart of Recovery, Deborah and David Beddoe walk us through several ways to stick with it during this crisis our country is having.
The Beddoes bring up several original points concerning how we should be able to deal with the people that need to recover from their addictions. Each point is enhanced by walking us through the way we could be feeling and the best ways to help encourage and build up those recovering addicts. The Beddoes do not hold back and they speak clearly in layman’s terms to us.
Overall, The Heart of Recovery is a book that is perfect for those needing help in knowing how to minister to and stick by those who need it most.

[victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very unique writing, encouraging, inspiring and compelling to read with that also had a very shape story from the author of this book was sharing from the experience with the addiction situation from their family like most of the people living in America was struggling. This book will be giving us more information that you may not think or believe that can be true and real will be help and healing for someone that can not be able to accept an expensive prescription this day. I highly recommend to everyone must to read this book. “ I received complimentary a copy of this book from Revell Reads for this review”.

[Rachel Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

For anyone who has struggled with being addicted to opioid drugs or has a loved one or friend who has/ is. This is an excellent resource for you. Dave and Deborah share how we can be a supportive, helpful community to our loved ones and friends who are addicted to drugs. They share their story throughout the book and you will see God’s redemption in their story as well as the community of people that were there for them.


I received a complimentary copy from Revell Publishing for a review. All opinions are my own.

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're like me, you may not have an immediate application for this book, but don't let that keep you from reading and taking in the Beddoes' remarkable story and well earned wisdom! If you even know OF families going through addiction & recovery, if you're in a church community, this is noteworthy. Throughout, Deborah holds up the value of family, of compassion, and of caring for our spouses & neighbors & the oppressed. I'm proud of their perseverance and transparency and their deep desire to help families heal!

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down once I picked it up. It is so beautifully written. I am left inspired and motivated to truly explore how I can be more compassionate to others. Thank you Deborah and Dave Beddoe for sharing your story with the world. It will give hope to so many.

[Rachael W · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good and the perfect reminder for our reasons for compassion. I will recommend this book to anyone who knows someone in recovery!!

[Markie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Heart of Recovery, written by Deborah Beddoe and David Beddoe, is a powerful and compassionate exploration of addiction and the transformative role that community and compassion play in the recovery process. Drawing from their personal experiences and extensive research, the authors shed light on the challenges faced by individuals struggling with addiction and provide a roadmap for finding hope and healing.

One of the standout qualities of this book is the authors' ability to approach addiction with empathy and understanding. They humanize the experiences of individuals grappling with addiction, illustrating the complexities, struggles, and underlying emotional pain that often accompany this disease. By sharing personal stories and accounts of others, they help to dismantle stereotypes and foster a sense of compassion and empathy among readers.

The book also emphasizes the vital role that community plays in the recovery journey. The authors highlight the importance of a supportive network, whether it be family, friends, or dedicated recovery communities. They provide practical advice on how to build and nurture such communities, offering guidance on establishing healthy boundaries, fostering effective communication, and creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for healing.

Furthermore, The Heart of Recovery underscores the significance of self-compassion and self-care. The authors stress that recovery is a lifelong process, and individuals must learn to be gentle and forgiving with themselves. They encourage readers to prioritize their own well-being, emphasizing the importance of physical, emotional, and spiritual self-care in maintaining long-term recovery.

The writing style of Deborah Beddoe and David Beddoe is clear, heartfelt, and accessible. They convey complex ideas in a relatable manner, making the book suitable for a wide range of readers, including those directly affected by addiction and their loved ones. The authors strike a balance between sharing personal anecdotes and presenting research-based information, creating a comprehensive and well-rounded narrative.

One potential criticism of The Heart of Recovery is that, at times, it may feel slightly repetitive. Certain themes and ideas are reiterated throughout the book, which could be seen as a minor drawback. However, this repetition also serves as a reminder of key concepts and reinforces the authors' core messages of compassion, community, and self-care.

In conclusion, The Heart of Recovery: How Compassion and Community Offer Hope in the Wake of Addiction is a profoundly moving and insightful book that offers guidance, hope, and inspiration to individuals and families affected by addiction. Deborah Beddoe and David Beddoe navigate the complexities of addiction with compassion and wisdom, providing valuable tools for fostering healing, building supportive communities, and embracing a journey of recovery. This book serves as a beacon of hope for anyone seeking understanding and a path towards lasting recovery.

[Brent Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many writers publish a book about the program they created. That is not the case here. The Beddoe family were trapped in addiction and encountered a church that cared for them, helped them regain their dignity, and held them accountable as they worked through addiction, detox, rehab, and recovery. It all centers on compassion and community, as the subtitle says.

I found the book very helpful. The authors talk openly about people trying to quickly to offer advice, but being very slow to listen. Deb Beddoe offers advice on working through medical, government, and social service programs, plus advice on how families navigate the poverty that often accompanies addictive behavior.

Thank you Deb and Dave Beddoe for being so transparent, and celebrating over 13 years of sobriety.

(Reviewer's note, I know the Beddoes, and can attest to their humble approach to life in sobriety.)

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a helpful book for any church seeking to be a place of refuge and a compassion-filled safe harbor for those struggling with addiction and their wounded families. With great honesty and vulnerability, the authors write about the husband’s long battle with opioids while serving in the ministry and his efforts to get clean. Rather than speaking to the addicts and their families, this very practical book is for those in the church who want to walk alongside these people as they heal.

[Dorothy Greco · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Heart of Recovery is an incredibly honest and super practical book for any families or couples dealing with drug addiction. Beddoe helps readers to understand how addiction happens, what it's like to stand with and support the addict, and what it takes to find freedom. This book is remarkably hopeful and avoids pat answers and empty promises.

[Ericka Andersen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well done and thorough look at how Christians the church community can learn about and support those going through addiction struggles. Usually I don't like co-written books, but I actually enjoyed how this one was put together, with both husband and wife's perspective. I think this is a necessary and important book for Christians.

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well researched book. Helpful for understanding many aspects of prescription drug addiction particularly.

[Taylor Lambert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this book as a recovering addict and mental health professional and besides the use of the word “clean” to describe an individual in recovery this book was a very intelligent and very real tale of how addiction can affect anyone and how it can spiral out of control. (The use of the word clean, implies that an individual was dirty during active addiction. Some recovering addicts still use this word to describe themselves and that is okay if they identify with the word, but I try not to use it in my daily work)

The book is written by a religious couple, and if you are not religious this can be a little nerve wrecking, but the book is written very well. The way the authors use their beliefs is not “in your face” and is used in a way that highlights being a good person, showing compassion, and loving others as you want to be loved. As someone who is spiritual and in recovery, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who has been affected by addiction in anyway or are in a helping profession that deals with mental health and addiction issues.