Jonathan McReynolds Gets Vulnerable in New Book, “Before You Climb Any Higher”

Source: Harper Collins / Harper Collins

GRAMMY Award-winning artist Jonathan McReynolds has made a remarkable impact in the world of gospel music. Now, he is using the written word to inspire the masses with his new book, “Before You Climb Any Higher: Valley Wisdom for Mountain Dreams.”

The Chicago native gets vulnerable in his latest literary release set to debut in early 2025. In it, he shares personal stories that redefine both the “mountain top” and “valley” experiences. With new wisdom, he is helping readers reevaluate their posture and priorities.

In an Instagram post announcing the release, McReynolds confessed to having many “personal pits during professional highs.” Those difficult times drew him closer to God and taught him the valley is actually a place of rest, nourishment, and strength. Witnessing others experience similar scenarios inspired him to share his insight with the masses.

“It’s interesting that the mountains we climb – the professional, missional, assignment mountains that we climb – they do not actually sustain the climber. Stardom doesn’t sustain a star. Kids don’t sustain parents. Ministry does not sustain the minister. I learned a lot while I was up there burned out on the mountain. [Most importantly that] we cannot climb away from God, but we can climb away from our true identity,” he said.

Of all the lessons shared in the book, being anchored in one’s identity as a child of God is at the core. McReynolds wants readers to know they are more than their accomplishments. They are sons and daughters of God, who is calling them to rest in the valley, replenish their souls, be formed by the Spirit, and discover abundant life that is found only in Him.

Additionally, “Before You Climb Any Higher” emphasizes the importance of valuing goodness over greatness and prioritizing soul strength over external admiration. Other key insights sure to resonate with readers are the necessity for breaks and finding community in the valley. As well as preparing for the climb, living abundantly, and self-worth.

After experiencing both the “mountaintop” – wins like GRAMMY Awards, nationwide tours, millions of followers, and the “valley” of depression, sin, loneliness, neglect – McReynolds asserts that it is possible to experience joy, fulfillment, and spiritual richness in all circumstances. Readers will explore his perspective on the balance between ambition and rest, and the beauty within the highs and lows that are inevitable while on one’s journey to personal and professional growth.

Since his introduction to the music industry in 2012, McReynolds has made waves garnering millions of fans including Stevie Wonder and Justin Bieber. Legends such as Kirk Franklin and CeCe Winans have hailed him as the “future of gospel.” Rising pop superstar Jon Batiste even admits he studied McReynolds in his own Grammy-winning single “Show Me the Way.”

Some of McReynolds’ most popular songs – “No Gray,” “Cycles,” and “God is Good” – exemplify his relatable, story-like approach to sharing transformative messages. His transition into authorship is a natural extension of that commitment. Fans can pre-order a copy of “Before You Climb Any Higher: Valley Wisdom for Mountain Dreams” today on Amazon.

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Jonathan McReynolds Gets Vulnerable in New Book, “Before You Climb Any Higher” was originally published on elev8.com