That is why the GENOGRAM is one of the core tools in both parts of the Emotionally Healthy Discipleship Course. Gain access to our extensive video library featuring step-by-step training modules from Pete and Geri Scazzero. Yes, it may be helpful to look at your family's past, but to claim that it is central to our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus is assuming far too much. What he prescribes is a combination of contemplative spirituality and practical skills for developing emotional maturity. As a pastor of a church, Scazzero was trying to lead through pure effort with no attention to his emotional life.

And they are valid symptoms—covering over brokenness/weakness/failure, denying the influence of the past, judging other journeys—to name a few. But these are symptoms that are complex, and could point to any number of root issues (such as pride) other than the issue of emotional health.

Offering new stories and principles, this updated edition will inspire readers to revolutionize their spiritual life. Since then, my wife Geri and I have given ourselves to equipping leaders and churches to move from a shallow Christianity to real depth in Christ.

I will stick to reading the Bible and praying as Jesus taught us to pray in the New Testament, and not with the contemplative spirituality/mysticism that this author purports is the way to really know God. I particularly appreciated chapter 6, which dealt with the concept of a dark night of the soul, an issue too frequently ignored in the Christian life.Undoubtedly there could be much written here about each of these healthy discipleship traits, but I feel that there are a couple that stand out and need to be mentioned. In fact, I would even argue that the topics explored in this book cover most of the spiritual challenges that other Christian authors/ pastors have dedicated their lives (and careers) to trying to figure out.

The combination of emotional health and contemplative spirituality,” he says, “unleashes the Holy Spirit inside us so that we might experientially know the power of an authentic life in Christ. Peter Scazzero learned the hard way: you can't be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature. If there is going to be impact we are going to have to do more than change our vision statement (though no doubt that might be necessary).To lead, not with the external shell of positions, achievements or titles, but from an internal commitment to a deep, abiding and transparent relationship with Jesus. Whether you prefer podcasts, books, or in-person resources, there are many options available to help you grow in emotionally healthy spirituality. A view of self having to improve to experience more of God is heart breaking, instead of experiencing more of God being the thing that improves us (into His image).