Book SummaryTired of Trying, by Ashley Morgan Jackson

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Tired of Trying

Embarking on a spiritual journey to uncover the essence of one's being.

Jackson underscores the significance of embarking on a demanding and occasionally painful spiritual quest with God, which is essential for discovering our true identity, which is shaped by our connection with Christ. We confront deep-seated internal struggles, confronting our most daunting fears and vulnerabilities, and at the same time, we acknowledge the areas in our existence where we have leaned on personal resilience instead of pursuing spiritual direction. Jackson imparts to her readers that the challenges faced ought to be embraced not as punishments but as an esteemed invitation to deepen their connection with the divine, revealing the untruths we cling to and freeing us to embrace the true selves endowed to us by the Creator.

Embracing the heavenly mandate to persevere through hardship.

The author emphasizes that the challenges we face are not due to any celestial anger or a deliberate infliction of suffering, but instead are an offer from the divine to shed light on parts of our being that we might ignore or deny. God yearns to uncover the elements of our existence that we've tried to manage on our own, aiming to bestow upon us both healing and freedom. Our challenges force us to acknowledge our boundaries, realize the vulnerability of our beliefs, pinpoint the inaccuracies in our assurances, and admit to the false personas we have upheld at our core.

Challenges in our lives provide opportunities for divine insight to reveal the deep-seated beliefs, susceptibilities, and tendencies that lead us to rely on our own skills and understanding.

Ashley Morgan Jackson uses the story of Jacob, who wrestled with God throughout the night, as an illustration of how deep spiritual experiences can expose our self-reliance. We often rely on our own skills and endeavors to control or attain our goals, similar to how Jacob relied on his cleverness and individual exertions to fulfill his ambitions. Our difficulties enable us to understand misplaced trusts and deep-seated beliefs that hinder our complete acceptance of the Divine's love and vigor. Jackson recounts a series of upsetting events culminating in a significant epiphany, during which a serious knee injury and feelings of isolation highlighted her tendency to pursue validation from others and strive to earn divine affection through her deeds. This was a turning point, as God used her pain to expose the toxic roots of her self-reliance and the false identities she clung to.

Context

• This involves placing confidence in unreliable sources, such as material success or personal abilities, rather than in spiritual or enduring truths.
• Many religious traditions view trials as a means for spiritual refinement. For example, in Christianity, the concept of "refiner's fire" is used to describe how hardships can purify and strengthen faith.
• Difficulties often force introspection, allowing individuals to identify and challenge cognitive biases and assumptions that may have gone unnoticed during more stable times.
• Emotional barriers such as fear, pride, or past trauma can make it difficult for individuals to fully accept divine...

Tired of Trying Summary Discarding untrue self-perceptions and habits to cultivate a more profound connection with the Divine.

The writer delves into the idea that specific individuals, surroundings, and objects frequently shape our sense of self. Jackson argues that it is difficult to give oneself over completely to God because our sense of self is often anchored in inappropriate settings, and it is through these difficulties that God uncovers and scrutinizes the unstable bases of our perceived security and worth.

Acknowledging the erroneous underpinnings and misguided tenets of how we view ourselves that obstruct our absolute trust in the Divine.

Jackson encourages individuals to engage in self-reflection, prompting them to consider their reactions when the wellsprings of their validation become inaccessible. This presents a chance to sincerely evaluate what we base our hope upon and pinpoint the "idols" that hinder our reliance solely on the Divine. Our self-perception is frequently tied to our accomplishments, including the accolades we receive for our assistance, victories, or artistic talents. Our feelings of worth and belonging should not be dependent on these aspects, because placing too much importance on them might lead to their undue glorification. Our growth as individuals can be...

Tired of Trying Summary Overcoming personal challenges can lead to a deep transformation that renews a person's belief in the Divine.

Jackson motivates her readers to embrace the challenges they face as chances to slowly rebuild their trust in the Divine. She underscores the importance of cherishing the gifts bestowed by the Divine rather than striving to gain His approval through deeds. The challenges we face are intended to guide us from a place of doubt and effort to one of intimacy and acceptance of God's steadfast love.

Accepting the divine blessings instead of striving to gain His affection and endorsement.

The author emphasizes how our exhaustion often stems from our attempts to earn divine love and approval through righteous actions and flawless behavior. Her therapist helped her understand the importance of accepting herself instead of perpetually focusing on her performance capabilities. She reached up to the sky, her gesture both symbolic and literal, inquiring, "God, what blessings have you prepared for me on this day?" The initial phase of rekindling faith involves recognizing ourselves as recipients of divine affection and grace, instead of attempting to earn it.

Revitalizing our spiritual beliefs through a shift in perspective and immersing our minds in the truths of scripture.

It...

Tired of Trying Summary Sharing our personal challenges can motivate and elevate those around us.

Jackson argues that the most significant advantage gained from our hardships is the chance to utilize the knowledge and insights we've gained, represented by the struggles we've endured, to assist and mentor others who are wrestling with their beliefs. Our journey through difficulties and change firmly reassures us of the unwavering presence of the Divine, providing solace to those who are uncertain in their beliefs or consider forsaking their principles.

Accepting life's difficulties as evidence of the Divine's steadfast essence.

The author underscores that Jacob's physical ailment, a result of his celestial meeting, perpetually reminded him of the profound transformation he underwent and the new persona he embraced. Our personal battles, whether they are of the body, mind, or spirit, demonstrate the profound change that heavenly involvement can effect in us, akin to how Jacob's physical alteration signified his celestial meeting and ensuing victory.

Our wounds and sensitivities can evolve into conduits of comfort for those in need.

Jackson motivates us to perceive our vulnerabilities as distinctive assets that enable us to provide solace and assistance to others....