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The cutting edgeClinging to God in the face of self-harmSelf-harmTHE CUTTING EDGE This refreshingly honest account by Jess Wilson of her struggle to overcome self-harm makes for compelling reading. From the off, it strikes a healthy balance between the descriptive and the analytical, without at any point becoming over indulgent and unhelpfully sentimental. The style is straightforward and engaging as Jess recounts those painful days when she struggled with issues of low self-worth, battled with a crippling dread of failure and led a life that was characterised by panic and fear. Rather than providing simplistic solutions, it explores some of the complexities of self-harm, highlighting the negative pressures on our contemporary culture as young people, in particular, search for value and meaning. Jess is perceptive in her analysis of human behaviour and gives down-to-earth advice, interspersed with ample practical suggestions for those who face similar difficulties. Grounded in Scripture, it has helpful sections on improving our prayer life and deals with issues like perspective and accountability, but it never leaves us in any doubt as to the power of God to break through in the darkness. For me, its impact lies in its beautiful simplicity, its lack of contrived language and an accessibility that makes for a fairly quick read. It will, therefore, undoubtedly have large appeal for a teenage audience, or for anyone seeking to understand this growing phenomenon. It left me grateful for people like Jess who are prepared to be vulnerable so that others can benefit and who are brave enough to speak out about some of the issues that have long been silenced. Here’s a living testimony to the transforming power of God! Sian Baker, © Evangelicals Now - May 2008 |