currently reading: The Spiritual Danger of Doing Good

As the President and CEO of HOPE International, Peter Greer knows a lot about "doing good".  But in his book, The Spiritual Danger of Doing Good (co-written with Anna Haggard), Greer talks about about the darker side of helping others.  He is unflatteringly honest, sharing how his marriage was failing as he was busy leading an international Christian nonprofit.

Each chapter is about a different spiritual danger.  He writes about the danger of giving your family leftovers while working overtime in ministry.  Another chapter focuses on the importance of deep friendships and deliberately choosing friends to hold you accountable.  Later he writes about the danger of trying to please everyone around you.  Overall, Greer touches on many different dangers to be aware of while serving.

Greer included many anecdotes from his own life (including the time he was dragged by a gorilla!), but also from the lives of friends.  At the end of each chapter, he provides reflection questions that would be especially helpful to someone currently serving in a ministry.

This book would be good for leaders and lay people alike.  Personally, I didn't find it thrilling or find much new information.  It seemed like a lot of practical, good advice.  It certainly could be a reminder and a "check-up" on your heart and motives for serving, however, in my opinion, it isn't a "must read".

**I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.