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Valuable: Why Your Worth Is Not Defined by How Useful You Feel
Come and see that our purpose as Christians is not about being useful but about being known by God and enjoying him.
We all want to be useful to God, but often we feel that we’re not, or, because of illness or other difficulties, that we can’t be as active as we’d like to be. Liz Carter wants to rescue us from the spiral of feeling useless that we get caught in, and to show us that being useful isn’t what Christianity is about. In fact, the Bible barely talks about God using people at all.
Weaving together insightful Scriptural analysis and beautifully told stories, Liz takes us on a journey to see what the Bible really says about weakness, identity, and God’s purposes for helping us to see ourselves and our relationship with God in an entirely different and much more glorious way. Readers will discover that our purpose as Christians is not about being useful but about being known by God and enjoying him.
This book is particularly helpful for those struggling with long-term physical or mental illness, but it’s also a great encouragement to Christians who feel that they are not good enough or useful enough to God for other reasons.
Questions at the end of each chapter make this a helpful resource to read with a friend or in groups.
144 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
7 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Liz Carter
7 books26 followersLiz Carter is the author of Treasure in Dark Places (Capstone House, 2020) and Catching Contentment (IVP, 2018). A six session Bible study course based around Catching Contentment is available. She's also written a six week Bible study guide based around the live action film 'Beauty and the Beast', A Tale of Beauty from Ashes
Liz lives in Shropshire with her family. She likes to write around issues of faith and suffering, from the point of view of living with lifelong chronic disease.
Liz lives in Shropshire with her family. She likes to write around issues of faith and suffering, from the point of view of living with lifelong chronic disease.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 10, 2024
When I was first diagnosed with a chronic illness, a dear friend, who also happens to be a pastor's wife, recommended "Valuable" to me. What a joy and lifeline this book has been! Unlike some books whose title doesn't match the content, "Valuable: Why Your Worth Is Not Defined by How Useful You Feel" truly delivers on its promise. Liz Carter, who writes from her own experience with chronic illness, speaks directly to the heart with wisdom, compassion, and authenticity.
This book is soaked in Scripture, providing a solid, biblically grounded perspective that reminds us our worth is not tied to our productivity or how much we can do. Carter’s personal insights and struggles make her words even more powerful and relatable, offering readers comfort and hope no matter what they are facing. The book is a gentle yet firm reminder that our value is found in who we are in Christ, not in our ability to meet the world’s demands.
One of the things that makes "Valuable" stand out is its practical approach. Each chapter includes prayers, reflections, and questions designed to help you internalize the truths Carter shares. I found myself reading just one chapter a week, allowing time for these life-changing concepts to sink in. My copy is filled with notes and underlined passages because so much of what Carter writes resonates deeply.
At the end of the book, there's a Reflection Guide, making it perfect for personal study or group discussion. This book is more than just a read; it’s a journey into understanding your true worth through the lens of God’s unchanging love. Whether you’re dealing with illness, feeling inadequate, or simply seeking a deeper connection with your identity in Christ, "Valuable" will not disappoint. It's a beacon of hope and encouragement, reminding us all that our value is secure in the One who created us.
This book is soaked in Scripture, providing a solid, biblically grounded perspective that reminds us our worth is not tied to our productivity or how much we can do. Carter’s personal insights and struggles make her words even more powerful and relatable, offering readers comfort and hope no matter what they are facing. The book is a gentle yet firm reminder that our value is found in who we are in Christ, not in our ability to meet the world’s demands.
One of the things that makes "Valuable" stand out is its practical approach. Each chapter includes prayers, reflections, and questions designed to help you internalize the truths Carter shares. I found myself reading just one chapter a week, allowing time for these life-changing concepts to sink in. My copy is filled with notes and underlined passages because so much of what Carter writes resonates deeply.
At the end of the book, there's a Reflection Guide, making it perfect for personal study or group discussion. This book is more than just a read; it’s a journey into understanding your true worth through the lens of God’s unchanging love. Whether you’re dealing with illness, feeling inadequate, or simply seeking a deeper connection with your identity in Christ, "Valuable" will not disappoint. It's a beacon of hope and encouragement, reminding us all that our value is secure in the One who created us.
August 19, 2023
3.5 ⭐️s
In Valuable, Liz Carter discusses the problematic language of “usefulness” to God and helps us to explore better ways to convey what we actually mean with that statement.
Why is this a huge deal? Because usefulness often infers the necessity of ability and Liz asks us to think of those who may be less able-bodied or able-minded than others.
Liz also speaks about how much of a challenge this language can be for a new believer that came from an abusive background where being “used” wasn’t something worth celebrating. Think of the confusion it could cause when they hear “God wants to use you.”
I’ll be honest—initially, I thought that it was just semantics, but as I continued reading, Liz helped me to understand why it’s bigger than that. She helped me to see how being “used” speaks more to performance and productivity rather than posture and position. It’s much more works-based than identity-based.
I appreciate Liz’s heart for the subject matter, especially given her own battle with chronic illness. I was an easy read that opened my eyes to a new perspective.
I received a copy of this book for free from The Good Book Company in exchange for this honest review.
In Valuable, Liz Carter discusses the problematic language of “usefulness” to God and helps us to explore better ways to convey what we actually mean with that statement.
Why is this a huge deal? Because usefulness often infers the necessity of ability and Liz asks us to think of those who may be less able-bodied or able-minded than others.
Liz also speaks about how much of a challenge this language can be for a new believer that came from an abusive background where being “used” wasn’t something worth celebrating. Think of the confusion it could cause when they hear “God wants to use you.”
I’ll be honest—initially, I thought that it was just semantics, but as I continued reading, Liz helped me to understand why it’s bigger than that. She helped me to see how being “used” speaks more to performance and productivity rather than posture and position. It’s much more works-based than identity-based.
I appreciate Liz’s heart for the subject matter, especially given her own battle with chronic illness. I was an easy read that opened my eyes to a new perspective.
I received a copy of this book for free from The Good Book Company in exchange for this honest review.
May 4, 2023
Reading this book feels like coming home, not to a place where shame and negative beliefs knock at the door but to a place where we can rest and just be, knowing we are unconditionally loved by God for who we are and not for what we do.
Through her own journey of living with chronic illness and by deftly weaving others vulnerable stories throughout the book, Liz leads us out of the mire of feeling weak and useless, showing us through scripture that our value is in God and not in how useful we are. She teaches us that His greatest desire is for intimacy with us.
Liz lives out what she is offering us here and is honest and authentic in vulnerably sharing her own struggles with feeling useful. This book is so needed and will deeply impact many people’s lives and that’s not something I say lightly!
With reflection questions at the end of each chapter and a study guide at the end of the book this is a great resource for both the individual or a group.
I received an advance copy of this book, a favourable review was not required and all opinions expressed here are my own.
Through her own journey of living with chronic illness and by deftly weaving others vulnerable stories throughout the book, Liz leads us out of the mire of feeling weak and useless, showing us through scripture that our value is in God and not in how useful we are. She teaches us that His greatest desire is for intimacy with us.
Liz lives out what she is offering us here and is honest and authentic in vulnerably sharing her own struggles with feeling useful. This book is so needed and will deeply impact many people’s lives and that’s not something I say lightly!
With reflection questions at the end of each chapter and a study guide at the end of the book this is a great resource for both the individual or a group.
I received an advance copy of this book, a favourable review was not required and all opinions expressed here are my own.
April 8, 2023
I have been undone by this book, in a good way! I had bought into the lie that to show God's glory I had to suffer well and stoically. Reading this book has completely undone that lie, our value isn't in how happy we are, how happy we can make others, it's in how busy we are. Our value is God, his glory is shown regardless of how happy we are, we can be honest with suffering and lament and still show God's love to others. This isn't just a challenging book in the use of our language and lies we've believed, but it's full of theological insights into the phrases and words so often misunderstood as meaning we should be productive and cheerfully suffer. Thank you Liz for an amazing book!
March 15, 2023
I was so blessed to be able to read this book, and I highly recommend it to anyone who, like me, struggles with self-confidence. The author so well explains passages of Scripture and phrases that we may have often misunderstood through the years. I will read it again and again. Very well done!
June 6, 2023
Many people spend their Christian lives longing to be used by God, whether in great ways or small. We listen to sermons about the heroes of faith and feel disheartened and inadequate because we can never measure up. We focus on our weaknesses, and how our disabilities, limitations, illnesses, or just the general busyness of life seem to hinder our productivity.
This book challenges the language of usefulness. Liz reminds us that God did not invite us into his Kingdom because of what we can do, but because he wants us to enjoy a satisfying and fulfilling relationship through Jesus. He doesn’t love us more if we labour in his name every day, or less if we cannot. He loves us simply because we are his precious children, and he is our Saviour.
Liz weaves together a mixture of stories, Biblical examples, and teaching points to convince her readers that God values us because we are exactly who he made us to bee. I loved her references to women like Mary and Rahab, showing how God valued them before they did a single thing to make them worthy of receiving his love.
This book opened my eyes and taught me to re-think the way I talk to others about their acts of Christian service. It also freed me from pressure during a time when my own circumstances have reduced my energy. None of us want to be used by others, so why do we use words like this in relation to our heavenly Father? It is freeing to see ourselves instead as partnering with him in the work of spreading the Gospel.
Valuable is ideal for group study, as it has questions for reflection at the end of each chapter, and a brilliant study guide at the back to help us reflect further on what we have learned. This is a timely message, so thanks, Liz, for your obedience to the Holy Spirit and your courage to write.
This book challenges the language of usefulness. Liz reminds us that God did not invite us into his Kingdom because of what we can do, but because he wants us to enjoy a satisfying and fulfilling relationship through Jesus. He doesn’t love us more if we labour in his name every day, or less if we cannot. He loves us simply because we are his precious children, and he is our Saviour.
Liz weaves together a mixture of stories, Biblical examples, and teaching points to convince her readers that God values us because we are exactly who he made us to bee. I loved her references to women like Mary and Rahab, showing how God valued them before they did a single thing to make them worthy of receiving his love.
This book opened my eyes and taught me to re-think the way I talk to others about their acts of Christian service. It also freed me from pressure during a time when my own circumstances have reduced my energy. None of us want to be used by others, so why do we use words like this in relation to our heavenly Father? It is freeing to see ourselves instead as partnering with him in the work of spreading the Gospel.
Valuable is ideal for group study, as it has questions for reflection at the end of each chapter, and a brilliant study guide at the back to help us reflect further on what we have learned. This is a timely message, so thanks, Liz, for your obedience to the Holy Spirit and your courage to write.
March 20, 2023
"Let’s not fall into the trap of thinking that the desire of God’s heart is to get his children to do things for him. God’s heart is for intimacy and transformation."
"You are a mirror of God’s glory, not an object of God’s use."
I distinctly remember a day at church, years ago now, when I overheard someone comment, "We could all be doing more."
At the time, I was working more hours than I ever had before, and one of my jobs was as a secretary for that church. I was teaching a children's Bible class. I was participating in National Novel Writing Month on top of my normal life. I was exhausted and overwhelmed, and I couldn't imagine how much more I could be doing, of anything. Was being exhausted and overwhelmed not enough? What more did they want?
I have no doubt this comment was well-intentioned, but I think this moment demonstrates the problem Liz addresses in Valuable, the assumption that doing is what makes us successful - even acceptable - Christians, and that there's no line where we can say, I am now doing enough.
Liz helpfully demonstrates that usefulness is not the point of the Christian life. She doesn't tell her readers to stop doing things, but challenges their motivations and language, and offers reassurance that God does not define their worth by their usefulness but by how much he loves them, and that we are not designed to do enough and should not expect that of ourselves.
My favorite parts were her discussion of why saying God uses people is harmful and the chapter offering alternative ways to speak about our relationship with him.
Liz writes from the perspective of someone living with chronic illness, and I think this book will be helpful to others in similar situations, but its wisdom is relevant to people not dealing with chronic illness as well.
I received a free ebook as part of the launch team. No review was required. Thank you Liz and The Good Book Company!
"You are a mirror of God’s glory, not an object of God’s use."
I distinctly remember a day at church, years ago now, when I overheard someone comment, "We could all be doing more."
At the time, I was working more hours than I ever had before, and one of my jobs was as a secretary for that church. I was teaching a children's Bible class. I was participating in National Novel Writing Month on top of my normal life. I was exhausted and overwhelmed, and I couldn't imagine how much more I could be doing, of anything. Was being exhausted and overwhelmed not enough? What more did they want?
I have no doubt this comment was well-intentioned, but I think this moment demonstrates the problem Liz addresses in Valuable, the assumption that doing is what makes us successful - even acceptable - Christians, and that there's no line where we can say, I am now doing enough.
Liz helpfully demonstrates that usefulness is not the point of the Christian life. She doesn't tell her readers to stop doing things, but challenges their motivations and language, and offers reassurance that God does not define their worth by their usefulness but by how much he loves them, and that we are not designed to do enough and should not expect that of ourselves.
My favorite parts were her discussion of why saying God uses people is harmful and the chapter offering alternative ways to speak about our relationship with him.
Liz writes from the perspective of someone living with chronic illness, and I think this book will be helpful to others in similar situations, but its wisdom is relevant to people not dealing with chronic illness as well.
I received a free ebook as part of the launch team. No review was required. Thank you Liz and The Good Book Company!
May 18, 2023
This book was only okay in my opinion. There was a lot that I disagreed with and felt like there was a lot of arguing over semantics. I really wish the author went more into what the Bible says about usefulness. I will say though that it got me thinking about something I hadn't thought of in this way before even though I totally disagree.
Liz has struggled her whole life with a disability that made her feel like she couldn't be used by God or useful. This book really explores the meaning of the word useful and the author pushes for a new use of language here. Instead of saying, "God will use you" say "God will partner with you". She sees it more of a partnership with God instead of being used by God. She has a hard time with the word 'use' because of it's negative connotations when used in other areas of relationships (like a boyfriend using you or such). She thinks being used is like being a tool for only one purpose and then later discarded. She also addresses the "productivity lie" and writes a lot about how we fall into that.
She never addresses if the reader is not saved and seems to be instead getting the reader to believe how valuable they are to God and how they need to believe their 'new narrative in the new Kingdom'. The gospel is never shared to those who are reading that are not Christians.
I definitely related to some of what she was saying, but I think she went about it all wrong.
My understanding of the phrase, "used by God" holds so much positivity to it. I don't see it as being a tool and used in the same way. It is a privilege when God decides to intervene in our lives to do His will, whatever that may be. He doesn't discard us afterwards. If we are in Christ, we want to serve Him and that is a great joy to be able to be given that opportunity. That hymn kept coming up in my head while reading, "Take my Life and Let it Be". We are valuable to God because He gives us value. We are slaves and servants to Christ the Scriptures say, not partners. He is our God.
Liz has struggled her whole life with a disability that made her feel like she couldn't be used by God or useful. This book really explores the meaning of the word useful and the author pushes for a new use of language here. Instead of saying, "God will use you" say "God will partner with you". She sees it more of a partnership with God instead of being used by God. She has a hard time with the word 'use' because of it's negative connotations when used in other areas of relationships (like a boyfriend using you or such). She thinks being used is like being a tool for only one purpose and then later discarded. She also addresses the "productivity lie" and writes a lot about how we fall into that.
She never addresses if the reader is not saved and seems to be instead getting the reader to believe how valuable they are to God and how they need to believe their 'new narrative in the new Kingdom'. The gospel is never shared to those who are reading that are not Christians.
I definitely related to some of what she was saying, but I think she went about it all wrong.
My understanding of the phrase, "used by God" holds so much positivity to it. I don't see it as being a tool and used in the same way. It is a privilege when God decides to intervene in our lives to do His will, whatever that may be. He doesn't discard us afterwards. If we are in Christ, we want to serve Him and that is a great joy to be able to be given that opportunity. That hymn kept coming up in my head while reading, "Take my Life and Let it Be". We are valuable to God because He gives us value. We are slaves and servants to Christ the Scriptures say, not partners. He is our God.
April 26, 2023
This book is a refreshing and liberating response for all of us who living in and are being crushed by the values of today’s society with it’s soul-destroying emphasis on productivity and usefulness. Liz simply and clearly re-orients the way we look at worth, not as being about how useful we feel but about our value as God’s children, mirroring His glory. Liz calls out the lies that we have accepted as truth and takes us back to Scripture again and again in a straight forward yet incisive way. While always pointing to the truth of Scripture she uses many stories that illustrate and illuminate further these bold, transformative truths as well as employing well placed questions to challenge you to apply these truths to your own life.
Each chapter ends with reflection and questions so that this isn’t just an exercise in correct theology but something that you can make personal and apply to your own situation. There is also a reflection guide at the back of the book which gives you more material to use personally or it could easily be used in a small group or one-to-one setting.
In some ways this is a quick read because it has been written so well yet it is also a book to linger in and allow the truths to sink into your soul.
Each chapter ends with reflection and questions so that this isn’t just an exercise in correct theology but something that you can make personal and apply to your own situation. There is also a reflection guide at the back of the book which gives you more material to use personally or it could easily be used in a small group or one-to-one setting.
In some ways this is a quick read because it has been written so well yet it is also a book to linger in and allow the truths to sink into your soul.
August 22, 2023
This is a liberating read, showing how the glib and thoughtless use of language can subtly convince us, able and disabled, that our value to God and others lies in our usefulness. With wisdom and clarity, Liz Carter unpacks the lie behind this assumption, showing us how to recalibrate our thoughts and find a healthier way of living.
This lovely book reminded me of that phrase from the Westminster Shorter Catechism, ‘Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.’ Enjoyment of others’ company does not depend on how useful they are to us. Or at least, it shouldn’t. Liz reminds us that the basic tenets of the best relationships rely on mutual affection, shared experiences, conversation, and that this is no different in our relationship with God. She shows how we have allowed our sense of use-worthiness to creep into our spiritual lives, interpreting experience through the lens of 'doing' rather than 'being'.
If you are frustrated and worn out, mining experience for its potential use, or wondering if there’s another way, this is the book for you. Gentle, challenging and infinitely wise, it will invite you to re-examine what you thought you knew and free you to reframe it. A recommended read.
This lovely book reminded me of that phrase from the Westminster Shorter Catechism, ‘Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.’ Enjoyment of others’ company does not depend on how useful they are to us. Or at least, it shouldn’t. Liz reminds us that the basic tenets of the best relationships rely on mutual affection, shared experiences, conversation, and that this is no different in our relationship with God. She shows how we have allowed our sense of use-worthiness to creep into our spiritual lives, interpreting experience through the lens of 'doing' rather than 'being'.
If you are frustrated and worn out, mining experience for its potential use, or wondering if there’s another way, this is the book for you. Gentle, challenging and infinitely wise, it will invite you to re-examine what you thought you knew and free you to reframe it. A recommended read.
February 6, 2025
Liz Carter shares how the common language and practices of the Church often send a different message of value to people than what is at the heart of God's kingdom. She points out that many church bodies value the more "useful" people consciously or subconsciously and that even using the terms "used by God" can be problematic. In any other context, to be used by someone is not a positive thing and she wonders if this isn't impacting how we view our relationship to God, our intrinsic value, and how we view and value others. As a person with a chronic illness that often makes her feel "useless", Carter invites other Christians to rethink our vocabulary, self-worth, and thinking of how God sees people, and what makes a person truly valuable.
I picked this up because I honestly have a tendency to evaluate how good my day was by my productivity level, and I know that isn't always healthy. This is a short little volume, but it is thought-provoking. I never thought of the way Christian circles talk about being used by God and how in any other circumstance such verbiage would be a negative thing. It has made me more conscious of how I talk about God working in and through and together with people. She also makes some important points about how we view people with chronic illnesses or those in need of help. There's an example in the book that particular stood out to me, of an impoverished woman who struggles with alcohol visiting a church and a new middle class family visiting on the same day and how the church would celebrate the family possibly joining them and shower them with offers of ways they could help (and also be thinking how the family could help them) while ignoring the woman who really needs help and has equal value in God's eyes. So this definitely left me with a lot to chew on.
Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: The author shares about her experiences as a child when her parents moved into a very poor and violent neighborhood because they felt God wanted them to reach out to that neighborhood. She states that the people in the neighborhood tried to drive out the church by using the churchyard for anything and everything, even sexual encounters (no descriptions).
Violence: In that violent neighborhood, people threatened them, made all sorts of noises in the middle of the night to disturb their sleep, and were carrying out acts of violence in the area (nothing really described).
Ethnic diversity: The author is British. I don't remember any ethnic descriptions of people.
LGBTQ+ content: None
Other: The author has a chronic illness which often leaves her in pain and sick.
I picked this up because I honestly have a tendency to evaluate how good my day was by my productivity level, and I know that isn't always healthy. This is a short little volume, but it is thought-provoking. I never thought of the way Christian circles talk about being used by God and how in any other circumstance such verbiage would be a negative thing. It has made me more conscious of how I talk about God working in and through and together with people. She also makes some important points about how we view people with chronic illnesses or those in need of help. There's an example in the book that particular stood out to me, of an impoverished woman who struggles with alcohol visiting a church and a new middle class family visiting on the same day and how the church would celebrate the family possibly joining them and shower them with offers of ways they could help (and also be thinking how the family could help them) while ignoring the woman who really needs help and has equal value in God's eyes. So this definitely left me with a lot to chew on.
Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: The author shares about her experiences as a child when her parents moved into a very poor and violent neighborhood because they felt God wanted them to reach out to that neighborhood. She states that the people in the neighborhood tried to drive out the church by using the churchyard for anything and everything, even sexual encounters (no descriptions).
Violence: In that violent neighborhood, people threatened them, made all sorts of noises in the middle of the night to disturb their sleep, and were carrying out acts of violence in the area (nothing really described).
Ethnic diversity: The author is British. I don't remember any ethnic descriptions of people.
LGBTQ+ content: None
Other: The author has a chronic illness which often leaves her in pain and sick.
July 6, 2023
A little while back in my reading history, among my favourite books were the 'Thomas the Tank Engine' series, featuring a collection of (mostly) steam locomotives with faces and personalities. For these engines, the highest accolade was to be told that they were a 'Really Useful Engine'.
But, as Liz Carter points out, being useful isn't a great goal for human beings. In fact, it can be very damaging when people value themselves or others by how useful they are. And it's even worse if our relationship with God is measured by our usefulness.
Through this book, the author makes it very clear that people are valuable not for their usefulness, but for themselves. She goes into it a some depth, covering it from several different angles and illustrating her point with real life stories, personal experience, and relevant scripture. But although it is thorough, it is not a 'heavy' book: Carter has a smooth flow and an easy style of writing that makes her arguments both clear and easy to follow.
This will be a very valuable book for everyone who has doubted their own usefulness and therefore their own value - which is most of us, at one time or another. It is perhaps equally valuable in reminding us not to make usefulness our measure of others. They are equally valuable.
But, as Liz Carter points out, being useful isn't a great goal for human beings. In fact, it can be very damaging when people value themselves or others by how useful they are. And it's even worse if our relationship with God is measured by our usefulness.
Through this book, the author makes it very clear that people are valuable not for their usefulness, but for themselves. She goes into it a some depth, covering it from several different angles and illustrating her point with real life stories, personal experience, and relevant scripture. But although it is thorough, it is not a 'heavy' book: Carter has a smooth flow and an easy style of writing that makes her arguments both clear and easy to follow.
This will be a very valuable book for everyone who has doubted their own usefulness and therefore their own value - which is most of us, at one time or another. It is perhaps equally valuable in reminding us not to make usefulness our measure of others. They are equally valuable.
July 18, 2023
Liz Carter has written a beautiful, passionate defense of the value of humanity in the eyes of God. Our value is not in our ability to be useful to God (a word which has many negative connotations), but is grounded in God's love for us and our partnership (a more mutual term than 'used') with him for Kingdom purposes. I particularly liked the way that the author has included her own lyrical poems and prayers to reflect the themes of each chapter and the examples she gives from her own life and the lives of others she knows helpfully illustrate the points she is making.
June 20, 2023
A challenging, yet easy to read book. It hits the spot, especially if you have been defining what success looks like by how useful you are or by the job you have. Liz Carter takes you on a journey to unpick some ways of thinking that are not as biblical as we may suspect and provides a healthier alternative.
September 2, 2024
This book was really good and really encouraging for me as someone with chronic illnesses. The only thing was I couldn’t tell if she was Catholic or reformed…
June 6, 2023
Valuable is a book that comes straight from the author’s heart. Liz has lived all her life with a debilitating chronic illness, and yet she loves God and His Word passionately. The message of Valuable challenges language that has seeped into the church from society in general. That our value is measured by what we can do and achieve. Or in Christian speak – how useful we are to God.
Have you ever been asked ‘So what do you do?’ We use the question too easily as a way of trying to get to know people. But what if we can’t answer that question? What if we can’t actually ‘do’ very much at all. Does that make us less important? For some people, myself included, that is an uncomfortable question to answer. But what about in church? Have we ever felt judged because we aren’t being useful to God? Have we ever been assaulted by the language of usefulness?
In Valuable Liz Carter uses both scripture based spiritual insight and real-life stories to prove that our worth is not defined by how useful we are or feel. A quick study of scripture shows us time and time again that it was the weak and seemingly useless people that God called to do extraordinary things with Him. And this is Liz’s message in Valuable. That our value to God is not tied to what we can do for Him. We are valuable to Him because we are His beloved children. And He is not a God who ‘uses’, rather a God who seeks partners and co-labourers. Those whose weakness He can turn into strength.
Valuable is a powerful book. It is thought provoking, insightful and moving. It is not a book that can be read quickly. In fact I think it is a ‘dip in’ book, with a wealth of treasures. It is definitely a ‘mark the page’ book, and full of ‘O yes, of course!’ moments.
Liz Carter is a poet and each chapter is ended with a lovely poetic reflection and a prayer. The end of the book also has a seven day reflection/devotional guide. This is a book I can see myself going back to again and again. It is just beautiful. And it is liberating.
Have you ever been asked ‘So what do you do?’ We use the question too easily as a way of trying to get to know people. But what if we can’t answer that question? What if we can’t actually ‘do’ very much at all. Does that make us less important? For some people, myself included, that is an uncomfortable question to answer. But what about in church? Have we ever felt judged because we aren’t being useful to God? Have we ever been assaulted by the language of usefulness?
In Valuable Liz Carter uses both scripture based spiritual insight and real-life stories to prove that our worth is not defined by how useful we are or feel. A quick study of scripture shows us time and time again that it was the weak and seemingly useless people that God called to do extraordinary things with Him. And this is Liz’s message in Valuable. That our value to God is not tied to what we can do for Him. We are valuable to Him because we are His beloved children. And He is not a God who ‘uses’, rather a God who seeks partners and co-labourers. Those whose weakness He can turn into strength.
Valuable is a powerful book. It is thought provoking, insightful and moving. It is not a book that can be read quickly. In fact I think it is a ‘dip in’ book, with a wealth of treasures. It is definitely a ‘mark the page’ book, and full of ‘O yes, of course!’ moments.
Liz Carter is a poet and each chapter is ended with a lovely poetic reflection and a prayer. The end of the book also has a seven day reflection/devotional guide. This is a book I can see myself going back to again and again. It is just beautiful. And it is liberating.
May 8, 2023
From the first page of this valuable book I felt known. Known for never feeling good enough, for feeling useless, especially since becoming ill and disabled, even though I know God doesn't see me that way. Achievement has always been central to my sense of self and yet my real value is in being simply me. God loves me as me, I am valuable. So are you.
"Valuable" takes us on a journey of discovery through stories and Bible passages, poetry and prayers as Liz explores the lie of usefulness, the value Jesus placed on the poor and needy, the love of God for us all and the innate value of each of us as we are, not for what we do.
This prayer in particular has stayed with me
"Father, when I stumble under the weight of my struggles,
Set me free to find you there with them—
Not outside, using them,
Or using me.
When I cannot understand your silence,
Sit with me there
And hold me.
Thank you that you work everything to the good,
That you are with me in the painful times,
That you speak to others through my difficulties.
Thank you that you collect up my tears,
You write them in your book,
You roar in the waves with me.
Amen."
If you have ever felt like you aren't good enough for God or that you haven't achieved enough in life, then I recommend this book to you. Chapter by chapter the truth of God's unconditional love will become clearer, helping you tear down the barriers of society's expectations, helping you know that YOU ARE VALUABLE.
"Valuable" takes us on a journey of discovery through stories and Bible passages, poetry and prayers as Liz explores the lie of usefulness, the value Jesus placed on the poor and needy, the love of God for us all and the innate value of each of us as we are, not for what we do.
This prayer in particular has stayed with me
"Father, when I stumble under the weight of my struggles,
Set me free to find you there with them—
Not outside, using them,
Or using me.
When I cannot understand your silence,
Sit with me there
And hold me.
Thank you that you work everything to the good,
That you are with me in the painful times,
That you speak to others through my difficulties.
Thank you that you collect up my tears,
You write them in your book,
You roar in the waves with me.
Amen."
If you have ever felt like you aren't good enough for God or that you haven't achieved enough in life, then I recommend this book to you. Chapter by chapter the truth of God's unconditional love will become clearer, helping you tear down the barriers of society's expectations, helping you know that YOU ARE VALUABLE.
May 23, 2023
This was a helpful, encouraging and brief read on the idea of usefulness and how God encourages us when we don’t feel useful. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand this concept of “usefulness” and/or who needs to be encouraged because they don’t feel useful.
Thank you to the Good Book Company for sending this to me to review!
Thank you to the Good Book Company for sending this to me to review!
June 18, 2023
In this book, Liz Carter emphasizes that even though Christians often focus on what people do for God, God loves us for who we are, not for what we do. She dismantles harmful or unhelpful ways that people talk about ministry, showing how wrong it is for Christians to relate to God based on metrics of use, rather than approaching God as a Father who delights in His children. Carter writes about this from her perspective as someone who suffers from chronic illness and cannot maintain the endless striving that many Christians think their faith requires, and she speaks into this issue in a very helpful way.
Carter shares anecdotes from her own life throughout the book, and she also presents hypothetical scenarios of ways that vulnerable people can feel marginalized when churches prize external measures of success and focus on people who can be of obvious benefit to the church's ministry. She also makes important points about how someone doesn't have to turn their worst traumas into a ministry. It is enough for someone to know and love God in spite of their pain, and they don't have to start up a ministry to other hurting people to validate their spiritual lives or prove that their life has meaning. Carter differentiates true callings from guilty feelings of obligation, and she shares passages from Scripture to back up her points about how God relates to people and works in their lives.
Carter also criticizes terminology related to God "using" people, saying that even though people usually mean this in a positive way, the language of "use" can imply control and exploitation, especially for people with abuse histories. She encourages people to use language that implies a partnership, in which God works with us to accomplish good in the world, rather than "using" us like a tool that you can use up and discard. I thought that was very insightful. I have never had an issue with the word "use" in a spiritual context, since I know what we mean by that and don't find it triggering, but Carter makes helpful points about how we can change our paradigms and speech to encourage a more positive, biblical, and life-giving view of God.
My only critique is that even though Carter wrote this book for a general Christian living audience, she does not include examples geared towards men. She shares about her own experiences, and she gives some general examples, but the illustrations focus on women. This would be more inclusive and helpful if she had shared examples about men as well, especially since she is directing this to the entire church. Besides, some people need the reminder that it's okay for men to be weak sometimes, and that they don't always have to act strong, capable, and unlimited.
This is an excellent book for suffering Christians who feel guilty because they think they aren't doing enough. It is also an important read for ministry leaders, both as rest for their souls and a careful warning against messages and attitudes they may communicate that may harm vulnerable people. This book is a compelling, short read that I highly recommend. It is vulnerable, thoughtful, and thoroughly biblical, and the author shares a unique message that stands out among books with similar themes. I really enjoyed this, and am sure that it will make a lasting impression on many readers.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Carter shares anecdotes from her own life throughout the book, and she also presents hypothetical scenarios of ways that vulnerable people can feel marginalized when churches prize external measures of success and focus on people who can be of obvious benefit to the church's ministry. She also makes important points about how someone doesn't have to turn their worst traumas into a ministry. It is enough for someone to know and love God in spite of their pain, and they don't have to start up a ministry to other hurting people to validate their spiritual lives or prove that their life has meaning. Carter differentiates true callings from guilty feelings of obligation, and she shares passages from Scripture to back up her points about how God relates to people and works in their lives.
Carter also criticizes terminology related to God "using" people, saying that even though people usually mean this in a positive way, the language of "use" can imply control and exploitation, especially for people with abuse histories. She encourages people to use language that implies a partnership, in which God works with us to accomplish good in the world, rather than "using" us like a tool that you can use up and discard. I thought that was very insightful. I have never had an issue with the word "use" in a spiritual context, since I know what we mean by that and don't find it triggering, but Carter makes helpful points about how we can change our paradigms and speech to encourage a more positive, biblical, and life-giving view of God.
My only critique is that even though Carter wrote this book for a general Christian living audience, she does not include examples geared towards men. She shares about her own experiences, and she gives some general examples, but the illustrations focus on women. This would be more inclusive and helpful if she had shared examples about men as well, especially since she is directing this to the entire church. Besides, some people need the reminder that it's okay for men to be weak sometimes, and that they don't always have to act strong, capable, and unlimited.
This is an excellent book for suffering Christians who feel guilty because they think they aren't doing enough. It is also an important read for ministry leaders, both as rest for their souls and a careful warning against messages and attitudes they may communicate that may harm vulnerable people. This book is a compelling, short read that I highly recommend. It is vulnerable, thoughtful, and thoroughly biblical, and the author shares a unique message that stands out among books with similar themes. I really enjoyed this, and am sure that it will make a lasting impression on many readers.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2023
How many times have I prayed “God please use me?” More than I can remember. A well meaning prayer, certainly. And one that rolls off the tongue easily if we’ve been brought up in the church and/or have a hunger for being part of his Kingdom work. “I want to be used by you, Father, I want to serve you, use me to bless others” etc.
Valuable by Liz Carter breaks through the language of usefulness and shows us how unbiblical it is. Through personal stories of how dangerous this language can be, and poignant examples of how easily we can slip into it, this book drew me up sharp. “Yikes,” I muttered several times while reading it.
I had never considered how “God uses us” language would sound to someone who has been used and abused by a parent, partner or other. Do I want people to think of God the way they think of their abusers? Since reading this book, I have begun to notice how often we use this language, without even thinking about it.
Is it even true that God wants to use us? Liz takes us on a journey through the scriptures we might use to back this idea up, beautifully showing how the heart of God is not to use us but to transform us.
This book is very challenging. And not just challenging, but stunningly written. Liz’s skill as a storyteller and poet is woven in throughout, creating something more breathtaking than your average non-fiction book. She speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever felt useless and she brings hope, showing us the true heart of God and pointing us to our glorious, beautiful Saviour. And yet (if you’re reading this and concerned about this point) it is not ‘me’ centred. It is Bible-centred. She includes a reflection guide at the back so you can grapple with the scriptures yourselves, checking if she’s right and examining your own heart before God.
I thoroughly recommend this book as a timely interruption into our productivity-driven christian lives. Please take the opportunity to read it and explore the truths within as you sit at Jesus’ feet.
Valuable by Liz Carter breaks through the language of usefulness and shows us how unbiblical it is. Through personal stories of how dangerous this language can be, and poignant examples of how easily we can slip into it, this book drew me up sharp. “Yikes,” I muttered several times while reading it.
I had never considered how “God uses us” language would sound to someone who has been used and abused by a parent, partner or other. Do I want people to think of God the way they think of their abusers? Since reading this book, I have begun to notice how often we use this language, without even thinking about it.
Is it even true that God wants to use us? Liz takes us on a journey through the scriptures we might use to back this idea up, beautifully showing how the heart of God is not to use us but to transform us.
This book is very challenging. And not just challenging, but stunningly written. Liz’s skill as a storyteller and poet is woven in throughout, creating something more breathtaking than your average non-fiction book. She speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever felt useless and she brings hope, showing us the true heart of God and pointing us to our glorious, beautiful Saviour. And yet (if you’re reading this and concerned about this point) it is not ‘me’ centred. It is Bible-centred. She includes a reflection guide at the back so you can grapple with the scriptures yourselves, checking if she’s right and examining your own heart before God.
I thoroughly recommend this book as a timely interruption into our productivity-driven christian lives. Please take the opportunity to read it and explore the truths within as you sit at Jesus’ feet.
June 10, 2023
Reading “Valuable” helped me to reassess my understanding of the phrase “to be used by God”. In today’s culture, our value or worth is so often defined by our usefulness. If we are not seen as useful by those around us because of our failures, our weaknesses, chronic illness, background, past wrongs etc, then the implication is that we have little, or no value. Many of us go on to believe the lies that we are not valuable.
You see, God does not see us as the world sees you and me. Each and every one of us is valuable to God.
Liz explains that rather than by being used by God, (think about the harm that people experience when they are ‘used’ by others) he calls us to partner with him, to join and remain in Jesus and be co-workers with him.
Liz shows us through accounts of people in the Bible, her own story and the story of others she knows, that God does not use us, but rather he loves us and transforms us.
Liz has written some beautiful prayers and reflections at the end of each chapter. These prayers written in the first person express what is often in our hearts but ones which we may not find easy to put into words ourselves.
One point Liz made that spoke to me when I first read it, and has stayed with me is how we often look at people’s lives through the lens of use. I know I have made that mistake of looking at myself in this way. Instead of looking at one another from this perspective, let’s look at each other through the lens of love, through God’s eyes, and see each other as valuable, just as we are in the eyes of God.
My final point as I come to an end of my book review is that I heartily recommend this book, “Valuable” to you. I do believe you will be blessed as you read and reflect on Liz’s words.
You see, God does not see us as the world sees you and me. Each and every one of us is valuable to God.
Liz explains that rather than by being used by God, (think about the harm that people experience when they are ‘used’ by others) he calls us to partner with him, to join and remain in Jesus and be co-workers with him.
Liz shows us through accounts of people in the Bible, her own story and the story of others she knows, that God does not use us, but rather he loves us and transforms us.
Liz has written some beautiful prayers and reflections at the end of each chapter. These prayers written in the first person express what is often in our hearts but ones which we may not find easy to put into words ourselves.
One point Liz made that spoke to me when I first read it, and has stayed with me is how we often look at people’s lives through the lens of use. I know I have made that mistake of looking at myself in this way. Instead of looking at one another from this perspective, let’s look at each other through the lens of love, through God’s eyes, and see each other as valuable, just as we are in the eyes of God.
My final point as I come to an end of my book review is that I heartily recommend this book, “Valuable” to you. I do believe you will be blessed as you read and reflect on Liz’s words.
July 29, 2023
A great read Inspired by the Holy Spirit
I am so glad I read, ‘Valuable’. Thanks to Liz Carter for writing this inspiring book. It enlightens and encourages. You need not feel less valued before God for not knowing the bible inside out! One sees how seemingly innocent words such as, ‘What do you do?’ can be damaging!
The writer corrects misconceptions associated with the meaning of use and usefulness in terms of our relationship with God. She clarifies how the word ‘Partnership’ is positive and a better description, using the biblical illustration of the Lord as the vine and we, the branches.
Questions such as, ‘How can God be your loving father when He gave you more than you could bear in order to use you in your adversity?’ She cites the dangers Paul faced [ beaten with rods, etc] to demonstrate that,’ We live in the ‘now and the ‘not yet’- ‘ viewing suffering in the light of future glory’!
At the end of each chapter, there is a prayer. In chapter 5, “A New Kind of Wholeness ” for example - ‘When I feel useless in my pain, take me to new places where wholeness means hope.’ The writer says, ‘hope is a remarkable thing to keep us going through the ‘most hideous of situations’.
This book is very well written, explained with analogies and apt scriptures. It is a wealth of gold nuggets that richly blesses its readers in encouragement, wisdom and enlightenment. I highly recommend it as a great read worth its 5 stars!
I am so glad I read, ‘Valuable’. Thanks to Liz Carter for writing this inspiring book. It enlightens and encourages. You need not feel less valued before God for not knowing the bible inside out! One sees how seemingly innocent words such as, ‘What do you do?’ can be damaging!
The writer corrects misconceptions associated with the meaning of use and usefulness in terms of our relationship with God. She clarifies how the word ‘Partnership’ is positive and a better description, using the biblical illustration of the Lord as the vine and we, the branches.
Questions such as, ‘How can God be your loving father when He gave you more than you could bear in order to use you in your adversity?’ She cites the dangers Paul faced [ beaten with rods, etc] to demonstrate that,’ We live in the ‘now and the ‘not yet’- ‘ viewing suffering in the light of future glory’!
At the end of each chapter, there is a prayer. In chapter 5, “A New Kind of Wholeness ” for example - ‘When I feel useless in my pain, take me to new places where wholeness means hope.’ The writer says, ‘hope is a remarkable thing to keep us going through the ‘most hideous of situations’.
This book is very well written, explained with analogies and apt scriptures. It is a wealth of gold nuggets that richly blesses its readers in encouragement, wisdom and enlightenment. I highly recommend it as a great read worth its 5 stars!
June 1, 2023
As someone who is so often frustrated at how little they can do, the subtitle of this book really got my attention, and I'm so glad I took the plunge and read it! Parts of it were difficult to read the first time through, and I did have to read the whole book before it fully made sense to me. A bit like antiseptic on an open wound, it also stung at times. However, I can tell that allowing Liz's words to speak God's truths to me in fresh ways has helped clean out decades of lies, and will allow so much healing to follow. I needed a lot of tissues as I worked my way through the book the first time, but the tears I cried were ones of relief and release. Now, as I read it for a second time (which I doubt will be the last!) it is producing fewer tears, and more joy and hope, as I discover more of the indescribable love God longs to lavish upon me.
This book especially resonated with me as someone who, like Liz, wrestles with the challenges of chronic illness limiting my physical abilities. Nonetheless, I think Liz has taken great care to ensure it would be just as beneficial to anyone who is tired (physically or metaphorically) of not feeling 'enough' as a Christian, in any aspect of their faith or life. For anyone who is confident in their usefulness, but likes a challenge, I'd recommended it for a fresh perspective on how you view and interact with others!
This book especially resonated with me as someone who, like Liz, wrestles with the challenges of chronic illness limiting my physical abilities. Nonetheless, I think Liz has taken great care to ensure it would be just as beneficial to anyone who is tired (physically or metaphorically) of not feeling 'enough' as a Christian, in any aspect of their faith or life. For anyone who is confident in their usefulness, but likes a challenge, I'd recommended it for a fresh perspective on how you view and interact with others!
June 1, 2023
I was already aware of Liz’s writing from previous books, so was anticipating this new book of hers greatly. She writes beautifully and has a thorough grasp of scripture; her books are deep, but also rooted in honesty. Living with a chronic disease means she faces struggles every day and she doesn’t shy away from that in her writing. In fact, the feeling of being less capable because of her illness is what started the journey of this particular book, in which she looks at the upside-down kingdom of God. While we might look at someone and wrongly view them negatively because of their lack of productivity, or we may struggle with feelings of uselessness ourselves, God looks at us and sees our great value. She challenges the notion that we are meant to be of use to God and invites us to journey “to apply a new language in our lives, in our weakness, in our identity and in our deepest places”.
May 9, 2023
This inspirational book by Liz Carter de-bunks the myth that productivity is what matters most to God. For anyone who has ever felt second-best in the health stakes, this is a game-changer. For those limited by chronic illness or other factors, those who fall into the trap of feeling useless, and anyone who cringes when people ask, ‘what do you do?’, this is a life-changing book.
Written out of her own experience, this beautifully written book will convince even the most down-hearted that their worth is not measured by what they do, but by who they are. With great spiritual depth and understanding, Liz leads the reader into the truth of God’s ‘great Upside Down’; you are infinitely valuable to God, no matter how unlikely that might feel.
Get hold of a copy: it will change your concept of who you are and help you to live with joy.
Written out of her own experience, this beautifully written book will convince even the most down-hearted that their worth is not measured by what they do, but by who they are. With great spiritual depth and understanding, Liz leads the reader into the truth of God’s ‘great Upside Down’; you are infinitely valuable to God, no matter how unlikely that might feel.
Get hold of a copy: it will change your concept of who you are and help you to live with joy.
June 22, 2023
This lyrical, friendly book unpicks a great big knot of language and misunderstanding at the heart of the Christian approach to disability and suffering. By replacing the language of use with the language of value - and carefully showing through scripture why this makes sense - Liz Carter reminds all of us how much we are loved and valued by God, while at the same time offering immeasurable comfort to those who have been bruised by well-meaning but shallow and inaccurate theology.
Carter lets no challenge go unfaced, sorting through the difference between being useful and being valued; being used and offering to serve; usefulness and dying to self. This book points to a robust theology of suffering and service.
Carter lets no challenge go unfaced, sorting through the difference between being useful and being valued; being used and offering to serve; usefulness and dying to self. This book points to a robust theology of suffering and service.
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March 17, 2024I woke up today in a funk. I knew I needed something tbat would distract me mentally from everything going on inside my brain right now but that a standard audiobook or film wouldn’t cut it - I needed something that would change the way I think as well as distract me. This was that.
As a fan and friend of Liz, there wasn’t anything that caught me off guard or felt new to me but so many reminders of my worth outside of what I can do, or what others say I am and an overall reminder that God loves me when I have felt unloveable is worth more than any money can afford. So thank you Liz for giving us this book and thanks you God for putting in my path just as I needed it.
“You are a mirror of God’s glory, not an object of God’s use.”
As a fan and friend of Liz, there wasn’t anything that caught me off guard or felt new to me but so many reminders of my worth outside of what I can do, or what others say I am and an overall reminder that God loves me when I have felt unloveable is worth more than any money can afford. So thank you Liz for giving us this book and thanks you God for putting in my path just as I needed it.
“You are a mirror of God’s glory, not an object of God’s use.”
February 7, 2024
I enjoyed this audiobook. It was a quick read and just what I needed after the theology heavy book I finished just prior. In this expository work, Carter explores our current definition of worth as related to the word "usefulness". So often we associate our "worthiness" of attention/forgiveness/love/etc with how useful we feel we are. This is something I've been working through as I do not fit into the typical categories (successful marriage, career or any children) and have been struggling with why I'm here. While not always directly applicable, Carter's work served as a timely reminder that God sees us and loves us regardless of how we see ourselves and our ability to be "useful".
June 23, 2024
This book is balm to the soul for any Christian who struggles to feel “enough” - for their work, their family, and their church. So often, the world and society will tell us our worth is only what we can produce or provide - our usefulness. Even in Christian contexts, so often people speak of God “using” us.
With careful attention to scripture, Liz unpicks this, sharing her own story and examples from others to illustrate that what God desires is intimacy and relationship with us, as his children - that we have worth because He loves us.
I’ll be returning to this book again and again, as the truths it contains, and its gentle wisdom, bear much repeating.
With careful attention to scripture, Liz unpicks this, sharing her own story and examples from others to illustrate that what God desires is intimacy and relationship with us, as his children - that we have worth because He loves us.
I’ll be returning to this book again and again, as the truths it contains, and its gentle wisdom, bear much repeating.
September 6, 2023
I’m always excited when I see Liz Carter has a new book coming out. She has a beautiful style of writing that communicates how precious we are to God. And in Valuable, Liz encourages us to see beyond the labels we and others put on ourselves. Our lives are not about ‘usefulness’ but our value in God’s sight. ‘know that your true place is to stand high on restored walls and dressed in praise, as you take your eyes off your own story and find yourself in the greater story of who God is.’ This is a book that will encourage and restore.
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