Being Real > Being Perfect
How Transparency Leads to Transformation
- Christian Living
- Publisher: David C. Cook
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Publisher's Description
Being Real > Being Perfect is an inspiring rallying cry for Christians to let go of pretending and enjoy a freeing, authentic relationship with Jesus and others. Are you tired of trying to be someone you’re not? Many of us spend a lot of energy—especially at church—trying to hide the fact that we’re struggling. We can’t share our marriage problems. Our addiction. Our sense of distance from God. In Being Real > Being Perfect, Justin Davis reminds us that God doesn’t heal what we don’t admit is broken. As he vulnerably shares his own story of redemption, Justin helps us understand: Why being real with ourselves, God, and others leads to peace and hope How faking perfection robs us of the transformative power of grace What the Bible says about insecurity and identity Step-by-step ways to overcome our fear of being vulnerable If you’re tired of trying to prove yourself, if you’re tired of wondering where the real “you” went, if you’re tired of knowing information but not experiencing transformation—discover the vibrant spiritual life you long for as you embrace the truth that being real is greater than you can imagine. Notes about eBook licensing:This David C Cook digital product is protected by copyright laws and is intended for non-commercial use only. Your use is subject to the End User License Agreement (“EULA”) and any additional terms or restrictions that may accompany the product. Digital products cannot be returned, sold, or relicensed. See the EULA for additional terms related to replacement files. About the Author Justin Davis and his wife, Trisha, are the authors of Beyond Ordinary and the founders of RefineUs Ministries. Justin speaks at churches and conferences across the country. He and Trisha have three children and live in Indiana.
Endorsements (19)
“Ten out of ten times I will support a book about being real over being perfect, if the author is someone I know to live this message themselves. Justin Davis has done the work to earn the right to lead us in this important message of freedom and fulfillment found only in the truth of Christ. It’s books like these that bring needed transparency and, as a result, healing to the Church.”
“My friend Justin provides practical steps for readers to push back against perfectionism, embrace authenticity, and discover real transformation. This book is a must-read for anyone who struggles with self-doubt, shame, or a fear of vulnerability.”
“Justin has given us one of those books that will read you better than you will read it. It is as thoughtful as it is practical as it is hopeful. Through his vulnerability, humor, and spiritual depth, this book gave me a greater desire to be more like Jesus and a clearer path to help me get there. I believe it can do the same for you.”
“The journey to becoming my real, genuine self over the polished, Instagram version of me is one I’ve been on for the past few years. It’s not easy letting other people into the messy parts of your life, but I’ve found firsthand that when we do, we’re able to find true community and, even more so, a deeper relationship with Jesus. Justin’s words give us the practical tools we need to ditch the fake versions of us—opening up to ourselves, our community, and God. This is a book I needed, and I bet it’s one you need too.”
“Justin Davis is the real deal. It’s one of the many reasons people are drawn to him and his leadership. He knows life is too short and precious to squander our time in image management. But let’s be real. Being real takes courage, a plan, a path. That’s what this book is about. If you’re tired of wondering what people are thinking about you and being confined by what they may or may not be saying, be encouraged. There is a path to break away from this. Being real, being who you really are, is possible. Being perfect isn’t.”
“Vulnerability generates intimacy in any relationship, and this book captures that important spiritual and social ingredient better than any I’ve read.”
“Justin took a risk; he revealed his weaknesses and lived to tell about it. So many of us are afraid we might die, or worse, be abandoned, if people really knew our mistakes and missteps. I met Justin in a season when my life was falling apart. No, really it was. The way he and his wife, Trish, allowed others to see their brokenness at a marriage seminar I attended was a true example of sacrificial bravery. I took a few brave steps that night myself. Those of us in the spotlight of Christian culture MUST have permission to fail, and confess, and repent. Being Real > Being Perfect is a firsthand account of life after perfectionism and the community that rises up around brokenness.”
“From an early age, we learned how to armor up, put on masks, and play a version of ourselves we thought was the acceptable one—the one most likely to succeed and not get hurt along the way. The problem is that kind of living suffocates our truest selves and leads to a life that feels trapped, unknown, and unacceptable. I’m grateful that Justin has voiced what most all of us have wrestled with at one time or another: we are made with purpose, on purpose, for a purpose, and God invites us to let down our defenses and masks to be seen and accepted as we really are.”
“In this Instagram, TikTok, take-a-hundred-pics-to-get-the-perfect-angle culture we live in, I believe each of our souls is crying out for something real. Justin’s call to transparency invites all of us to put down the facade, let others into the mess, and finally experience true wholeness.”
“There is a life that is possible. One that is honest and human, one that experiences deep healing and transformation. But if you’re like me, you can deeply struggle with knowing how to access this kind life. This is why trusted guides like Justin Davis are so helpful to show you the way and through Scripture to unpack how being relentlessly transparent can help you become everything you were always intended to be.”
“There is pressure coming from all directions for us to present the best versions of ourselves. That’s why I’m so grateful for this book! Being Real > Being Perfect is an insightful and inspiring book that encourages readers to embrace their authentic selves and let go of the burden of people pleasing. Justin Davis’s personal journey and honest storytelling make this a must-read for anyone seeking the freedom that only comes from being real!”
“I’ll never forget the day we had Justin and his wife, Trish, on our morning show. Justin was sharing a really tender part of his story when he said this: ‘The worst lie is the lie you tell yourself.’ That statement has stuck with me for over ten years now! Justin went on to explain that if you can’t be honest with yourself, you can’t be honest with anyone. If you’ve been in community with Justin and Trish, you know Justin doesn’t just preach this message; he lives it. For all these reasons, I highly recommend Being Real > Being Perfect to anyone who wants to experience the grace and power of God’s transforming love.”
“Justin has a personal story that demonstrates the power of how God uses our mistakes in a way that qualifies us to later be able to better serve others. God can only use us that way if we are able to be vulnerable and share who we are with others. Read this book, as it will help give you the courage to connect with people in a deeper way and make a bigger impact in the world.”
“We are all looking for approval, control, and security in one way or another. When we finally discover that authentic belonging doesn’t depend on us adjusting who we are—it just invites us to be who we are—that’s when we experience the gift of radical acceptance. Justin offers each of us an honest and hopeful road map in learning to remember that being real > being perfect.”
“This book will help you see clearly the way God sees you—as His child created in His image.”
“Justin challenges us all to risk being authentic at the expense of not being accepted by some but living a real life with everyone. If you aspire to thrive in life and truly live at peace with God and yourself, YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK! The real you is waiting to meet you! This book will help catapult you into a journey of discovering your authentic self!”
“What people are saying about … being real > being perfect “Life is hard. It is for all of us … But it doesn’t have to be complicated. Finding your true self is now easier than ever with the help of my friend Justin Davis’s new book. Helping you embrace the reality of who you are instead of who you pretend to be is Justin’s sweet spot, and I can’t wait for you to experience these words.”
“Jenni Wong Clayville, pastor and speaker, National Community Church “One of the things I’ve always appreciated about Justin in my friendship with him over the years is his willingness to be fully transparent and vulnerable in our conversations. He invites people to speak into his life so he can grow. His example inspires me to do the same. What I’ve grown to know of him in person I see when I read the pages of his book. Let these words encourage you, challenge you, and inspire you.”
“Andrew “MO” Momon Jr., author of LeaderFit and Be the Answer and lead pastor of Victory Church-Midtown “Impostor syndrome has taken over much of the world. Sadly, many churches struggle with it even more than the outside world does. Justin goes toe to toe with the shame epidemic flooding over Christians. Beyond naming the problem, this read gives tangible guidance to uncover our deepest fears and unleash greater freedom.”
Dr. Tim Harlow
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